Are state police departments required to provide health insurance during military leave?

State police departments are mandated to provide health insurance coverage during the military leave period. This requirement is grounded in federal law, particularly the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), which ensures that employees who leave for military service are entitled to certain benefits, including the continuation of health insurance.

Under USERRA, employees who are called to military duty are allowed to choose to continue their employer-sponsored health insurance coverage for themselves and their dependents for up to 24 months while on active duty. This ensures military personnel can maintain their health care while serving, providing a crucial support system during their absence. The intent of this provision is to protect the rights and welfare of service members and their families, ensuring they do not face gaps in health care services due to their service obligations.

Options that suggest health insurance is optional or contingent on specific circumstances do not align with the legal protections established by USERRA. Therefore, the requirement to continue health insurance during military leave is a critical aspect of supporting service members and their families.