In a significant move to support its firefighters, the Leander City Council has approved a new policy ensuring that all qualified retirees will receive full medical insurance coverage at no cost for three years following their retirement. This decision, made during a recent meeting, aligns with House Bill 4144, which mandates such benefits for public safety employees.

The policy stipulates that firefighters who retire from the department on or after January 1, 2026, will be covered under the city's medical insurance program without any interruption in coverage. This means that retirees will not face any gaps in their health insurance, providing them with peace of mind as they transition into retirement.

City officials emphasized the importance of maintaining continuous coverage, highlighting that the city will uphold this commitment regardless of any changes to the insurance provider. The council's discussions underscored the necessity of ensuring that retirees are adequately supported during their post-service years.

This initiative not only reflects the city's dedication to its firefighters but also sets a precedent for future employee benefits, reinforcing the value placed on public safety personnel within the community. As the implementation date approaches, city leaders are focused on crafting the final details of the policy to ensure clarity and effectiveness in delivering these essential benefits.