(a) Eligibility for waiver. An eligible member may elect to waive GBP health coverage by the method and form specified by ERS:
  (1) during the initial period of eligibility;
  (2) after a qualifying life event; or
  (3) during annual enrollment.
(b) Enrollment in GBP health coverage after waiver. An eligible member who previously waived GBP health coverage, may enroll in GBP health coverage subject to the provisions of §81.7 of this chapter (relating to Enrollment and Participation).
(c) Incentive Credit based on a waiver.
  (1) An eligible member, except for a survivor under Chapter 615, Texas Government Code who waives GBP health coverage is eligible for an incentive credit in lieu of the state contribution up to the amount specified in the General Appropriations Act if the member:
    (A) would otherwise have been eligible for the state contribution to be made on his/her behalf; and
    (B) demonstrates, in a manner specified by ERS, that the member has other health coverage substantially equivalent to the GBP health coverage.
  (2) The incentive credit may be applied only toward the cost of certain dental plans, vision coverage or AD&D coverage offered within the GBP.

Source Note: The provisions of this §81.8 adopted to be effective May 3, 2006, 31 TexReg 3588; amended to be effective June 5, 2008, 33 TexReg 4332; amended to be effective December 22, 2011, 36 TexReg 8574; amended to be effective September 5, 2016, 41 TexReg 6754; amended to be effective March 27, 2018, 43 TexReg 1876