GIC Approves Premium Rate Increases
April 14, 2009
The Group Insurance Commission has voted to increase health insurance rates by an average of 3.19% across its health plans for FY10 year, which begins July 1, 2009. For FY09, the GIC average rate increase was 6.37% and for FY08 it was 3.75%. The Commission does not set the premium contribution rate, such as 85/15 or 80/20.
The increase in premium rates will take effect July 1, 2009. Although these rates are now set, Governor Patrick's proposal to change employees' contribution levels is on the table. Dozens of state representatives have already signed on to a letter being circulated by Rep. Marty Walsh (D-Dorchester) urging Speaker Robert DeLeo and House Ways and Means Chairman Charles Murphy to reject the governor's proposed changes. (Read the letter and the view list of State Representatives who signed the letter )
The FY10 health care calculator can help you determine what your FY10 health insurance premium will cost under current contribution levels and under Governor Patrick's proposed contribution levels.
- The Group Insurance Commission was established by the Legislature in 1955 to provide health, life, and other benefits to state employees, retirees, and their dependents. The GIC also covers certain municipal enrollees, housing and redevelopment authority personnel and retired municipal teachers in certain cities and towns. There are currently over 300,000 people enrolled in GIC plans.
- A fifteen-member commission representing labor, retirees, municipal management, the public interest, the administration, and expertise in health economics governs the GIC.