By Bob Katzen

Senate 4-35, rejected an amendment that would provide $300,000 for the Inspector General to conduct an investigation into the spending by and practices of the Group Insurance Commission (GIC) which provides health insurance coverage for the 460,000 public employees, retirees and dependents.

Amendment supporters said that the commission is funded to the tune of $2.7 billion per year and argued that its spending and practices should be investigated to be sure the funds are well used. They noted that they are not pointing fingers at the commission but simply want to ensure its proper functioning and spending.

Amendment opponents said that the commission is doing a good job and is already the most regulated, overseen and investigated agency in the state. They noted the Division of Insurance oversees the commission which requires adherence to rate setting and other financial regulations determined by the division.

(A “Yes” vote is for the $300,000 investigation. A “No” vote is against it.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen No