Rutherford County approves new hearing aid coverage and critical illness insurance for 2026

The Budget & Finance Committee of Rutherford County, Tennessee, convened on June 5, 2025, to discuss financial reports and recommendations regarding employee benefits. The meeting began with a financial overview presented by Ed Elam, the insurance and risk management director.

Elam reported on the $2.64 fund for May, noting a revenue of $1,864,126 against expenditures of $2,500,999, resulting in a negative difference of $636,783. For the calendar year, total revenue was reported at $9,910,738, with expenditures at $12,213,041, leading to a deficit of $2,302,303. The fiscal year totals showed revenue of $21,658,313 and expenditures of $25,231,322, resulting in a negative balance of $3,573,005.

In the $2.66 fund for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, Elam detailed workers' compensation figures for May, reporting $950,701 in total, with year-to-date figures reaching $959,099. Additionally, the accounting attorney expense for May was noted at $204,030. The committee approved the financial report unanimously after a motion and second were made.

The committee then moved on to recommendations from the benefits and insurance committee. A significant proposal was the introduction of hearing aid coverage under the medical plan starting January 1, 2026. This coverage would provide a maximum benefit of $2,000 per member for up to two hearing aids every 12 months, applicable to active employees aged 18 and older, but not including retirees.

Further discussion clarified that retirees over 65 would have similar coverage under the new Humana Medicare Advantage PPO, effective January 1, 2026. The committee voted in favor of this recommendation, with all members present supporting the motion.

Lastly, the committee discussed placing accident and critical illness plans with Securian for 2026, which would be fully funded by employees. This recommendation was also approved, concluding the meeting's agenda.

Overall, the meeting highlighted ongoing financial challenges and proactive steps to enhance employee benefits, reflecting the committee's commitment to fiscal responsibility and employee welfare.