State Employees Rally Against Proposed PEIA Rate Increases
West Virginia state employees expressed deep concerns at a public hearing held Tuesday at the Erickson Alumni Center regarding proposed rate increases from the Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA). The agency, responsible for providing medical and insurance coverage to eligible state workers, has put forth a plan that includes considerable hikes in premiums and copayments.
Under the proposal, state employees face an estimated 14% premium increase, translating to an additional $31.50 per month. Local government employees would see a 16% increase, while retirees could face a 12% jump. Deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums could soar by 40%, with state workers likely to incur an average deductible increase of $355 and a maximum out-of-pocket rise of $1,610. Copays for inpatient services would increase significantly, as would those for outpatient care and emergency room visits.
Concerns were articulated by multiple stakeholders, including teachers, healthcare professionals, and union members. Dale Lee, president of the West Virginia Education Association (WVEA), expressed frustration over the legislative environment, stating that current conditions have become untenable for educators and retirees reliant on fixed incomes.
Other union leaders highlighted the broader implications of the proposed changes, including potential impacts on federal and local budgets that benefit schools and communities. Concerns about teacher shortages were also raised, with some asserting that increasing insurance costs could push educators to leave the profession.
As the public comments revealed widespread dissatisfaction, the PEIA board is set to vote on the proposed changes at their next meeting on December 5. For additional materials or inquiries from Tuesday’s session, interested parties are encouraged to contact PEIA at PEIAComments@wv.gov.
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