The board shall develop and submit to the general assembly by September 1, 2000, a plan to offer to state employees located in counties in which HMO coverage is not available, a medical benefits plan for calendar year 2001 with benefits coverage substantially identical to HMO benefits coverage, at a cost to employees not to exceed the average cost to employees for HMO coverage in counties where such coverage is available.

(L. 2000 S.B. 885)