Commission approves Kaiser retiree health plans for 2026 amid public support

In a recent meeting held on June 12, 2025, the San Francisco City Council took significant steps to address the healthcare benefits for retirees. The council approved the Kaiser multi-region HMO plans for the 2026 plan year, a decision that directly impacts the health coverage of retired city employees.

During the meeting, council members expressed concerns about the details of the rate cards associated with the plans. Some members suggested tabling the discussion for further review, citing the need for more clarity before making a final decision. However, the urgency of the timeline for submitting the plans to the Board of Supervisors for adoption as part of the upcoming budget led to a swift resolution.

The executive director emphasized the importance of moving forward, noting that delaying action could complicate future discussions. The council ultimately decided to proceed with the approval, ensuring that retirees would continue to receive their earned healthcare benefits without interruption.

Public comments during the meeting highlighted the community's support for maintaining these benefits. Dennis Krueger, representing active and retired firefighters, urged the council to vote in favor of the plans, emphasizing the importance of honoring the commitments made to employees who have dedicated decades of service to the city.

The motion to approve the retiree healthcare plans passed unanimously, reflecting a collective commitment to supporting the city's retired workforce. This decision not only secures essential healthcare coverage for retirees but also reinforces the city's dedication to honoring the contributions of its long-serving employees.

As the council moves forward, the focus will remain on ensuring that the needs of the community are met while navigating the complexities of healthcare planning and budgeting.