Wisconsin Lawmakers Propose Study of Statewide Health Insurance Plan for Teachers
MADISON, WI – A new bill introduced today by State Representative Andrew Hysell (D-Sun Prairie) and State Senator Jamie Wall (D-Green Bay) seeks to examine the feasibility of a statewide group health insurance plan for WisconsinS public school teachers and employees. The legislation directs the Department of Employee Trust Funds to conduct a complete study of potential costs and savings associated with pooling risk across the state,a move proponents say could deliver significant financial benefits to both taxpayers and educators.
The core aim of the bill is to address disparities in healthcare costs between teachers and other state employees. Representative Hysell highlighted the financial burden faced by educators, stating, “Teaching is an honorable profession. Yet teachers and school employees are getting a raw deal compared with other state employees, including part-time legislators. For example, full-time public-school employees have an average maximum out-of-pocket limit of $7,211 compared to $2,500 for part-time wisconsin legislators, or a difference of 288%.”
The proposed study would analyze the potential for a statewide plan to negotiate lower premiums and improve coverage options for teachers and school staff. Senator Wall emphasized the broader benefits of the initiative, saying, “This bill has great potential to save taxpayers money and ease pressure on school district budgets. It’s a win for students, teachers, and the general public.”
If implemented, a statewide plan could streamline administrative processes and leverage the collective bargaining power of all public school employees, potentially leading to more affordable and comprehensive healthcare benefits.The Department of Employee Trust Funds would be tasked with presenting its findings and recommendations to the legislature following the completion of the study.
This initiative arrives at a critical time for Wisconsin schools, which are facing ongoing budgetary constraints and challenges in attracting and retaining qualified teachers. Improved healthcare benefits are often cited as a key factor in teacher recruitment and retention efforts.
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