State Treasurer Brad Briner released the following statement in response to the House’s proposed state spending plan.
“State House leaders have taken the needs of state employees to heart in this budget proposal,” Briner said. “The House proposal fully funds the pension plan and increases funding to the State Health Plan to help in our effort to provide affordable, high-quality health care for state workers. Investments made in salary increases and cost-of-living bonuses will help ensure that the state can retain top talent.”
The State Health Plan (Plan) is facing a $507 million deficit for 2026, and this money will help to plug that hole for next year. In recent years, the state budget has averaged a 3.3% increase annually toward the Plan. This proposal would bring that amount to 5% more than last fiscal year.
The State Health Plan Board of Trustees will meet tomorrow morning at 9:30 a.m. to vote on a new benefit structure for the Plan.