At its September 3 meeting, the School Employees’ Health Benefits Commission (SEHBC) again failed to approve the Plan Year 2027 premium rate increases for active employees recommended by AON (the actuary for the State’s health benefits plans). A majority vote is required, and the vote deadlocked 4-4.
As detailed in NJSBA’s previous School Board Notes Articles, on July 27 the SEHBC approved the Plan Year 2027 premium rate increases for retirees recommended by AON but postponed its vote for active employees until August 19. At that August 19 meeting, the Commission deadlocked on active employee rate adoption following a discussion of factors contributing to rising healthcare costs. The SEHBC continued this discussion on September 3. In these and all discussions, the NJSBA will continue to advocate for real reform and cost savings. For additional information, please see the July 15, 2026 statement by NJSBA Executive Director/CEO, Dr. Timothy J. Purnell.
The next SEHBC meeting is scheduled for September 28, but a special meeting could be scheduled before then. For anyone interested in tracking the SEHBC meeting schedule and listening to these meetings, please go to the Division of Pension and Benefits website and find the SEHBC under Boards and Commissions.
