Office of the President

September 13, 2017 – Health Plan Premium Reduction for Most State Employees

To: Campus Community

From: President Gayle E. Hutchinson

There is exciting news regarding our benefits. CalPERS has announced health plan premiums for 2018, and I am happy to report that the employee monthly premium costs, for most health plans, has been reduced (on average) by 51%. For example, if you and your family are currently covered by Blue Shield Access+ HMO, your monthly premium will be decreased by $242.11/month for an annual savings of $2,905.32.

While these rates can fluctuate from year to year, we want to take this opportunity to celebrate this exciting news. Compared to our neighbors in Butte County, the employee cost of our overall benefits is low, and the coverage is exceptional. As we enjoy a decrease in the 2018 monthly premiums, we continue to have dental and vision plans for ourselves and eligible dependents at no charge to the employee. In addition, employees are now provided an opportunity to upgrade to the new VSP Premier Plan which doubles the allowance for frames/contacts and adds additional benefits.

As a reminder, benefits open enrollment for state employees began September 11 and closes at noon on October 6. Please see below for more details.

Benefits Open Enrollment for State Employees
September 11 – October 6 (Noon), 2017

Our Benefits team in the Human Resources Service Center is here to assist. Additional resources and specific contact information can be found below: