West Virginia Public Employees Demand Action on PEIA Health Insurance Hikes
Charleston, WV—Public employees in West Virginia voiced strong opposition to proposed health insurance premium increases during a public hearing held by the West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) on November 21, 2024. Over 100 attendees gathered at the Culture Center, expressing a unified call to the state Legislature to address ongoing issues with the public health insurance system.
The PEIA finance board is proposing substantial hikes: a 14% increase for state employees, 16% for local government workers, and a 12% increase for retirees. Additionally, workers will face a 40% increase in out-of-pocket maximums and higher co-pays. The proposed changes could mean a financial burden of approximately $113 million.
Dinah Atkins, a retired Kanawha County schoolteacher, emphasized the need for adequate support for public employees and retirees. "We’ve got to take care of our retirees…It’s up to our legislators. Call the people in the Legislature… ‘we need your help,’" she urged. Dale Lee, president of the West Virginia Education Association, echoed the sentiment, criticizing the Legislature for ignoring previous recommendations intended to improve PEIA. He declared, "This year’s proposed rate increases are unacceptable," highlighting the unsustainability of the burden on educators and retirees.
PEIA Director Brian Cunningham explained that rising prescription drug costs are a significant reason for the proposed increases, stating that health care expenses for the agency are rising nationally. “PEIA must generate enough revenue to pay the claims. There is no other money available,” he stressed.
The finance board will convene on December 5 to finalize next fiscal year’s plan, as public employees continue to seek relief from mounting health insurance costs that they argue undermine their ability to serve West Virginia communities effectively.
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Photo credit westvirginiawatch.com