Brothers and Sisters,
On August 11, 2014 a message was posted on the FOP website to our collective membership regarding proposed changes to health insurance for 2015 (see posting below). As was noted, the city has formally notified the representative leaders of the FOP, Local 416 Firefighters and AFSCME of their intent to eliminate the Advantage HMO plan and create a three-tiered High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) from Anthem (sole vendor). Per the direction of our Executive Board, the FOP engaged RuckLaw to research any contractual legal challenges that may exist because of the change. In the interim, FOP leaders have worked diligently to resolve the matter with the City while exploring legal remedies. Our efforts to sustain a positive resolution with the City have not been successful.
Therefore, as of today (08/28/2014) the FOP and Local 416 have directed our legal team to prepare a lawsuit which was filed today in an effort to protect our membership’s interest. The suit is based upon the City's breach of our collective bargaining agreement as well as the City's failure to notify us of the changes while seeking a contract extension from us last year. Neither organization desired legal action and we have continued to work our way up the chain of command within the City Administration. After meeting with the Mayor’s Chief of Staff, we were notified today there is no change in their position. As a last resort, a lawsuit was filed today.
Again, under the City’s proposed changes, the Advantage Insurance will no longer be an option nor will an HMO option. Below are the approximate costs for 2015 premiums compared to 2014 based on our current HSA plan. Contributions will be up to $1,250 for single and $2,500 for the others. (IMPORTANT NOTE: There will be NO contribution for retirees.) The City will also offer plans with lower premiums but higher deductibles and maximum out-of-pocket costs such as $8,000 and $9,000. They also plan to implement low-cost clinics throughout county.
Anthem HSA
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Bi-Weekly Cost
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Deductible
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Max Out of Pocket
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2014 2015
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Single
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$23.22 $43.79
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$3,500
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$5,000
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EE/Spouse
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$46.39 $101.49
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$5,000
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$7,000
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EE/Children
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$35.66 $78.22
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$5,000
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$7,000
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Family
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$63.36 $132.05
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$5,000
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$7,000
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We will keep you informed as the legal process moves along. In the interim, know that your FOP Lodge leadership is being kept advised and updated on our progress and we will report out any further developments.
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