Localities split on providing health benefits for part-time workers

Like states and businesses, the region’s counties and cities are also struggling with part-time workers who become eligible for health care benefits starting next year.

A provision in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act requires employers with more than 50 workers to offer health insurance to anyone that works 30 hours a week or risk massive fines. And some localities are considering capping wage workers to 29 hours a week to get around the law.