HSS to pursue RFP for basic life and long-term disability benefits for 2026 plan year

Michael Visconti, SFHSS contracts administration manager, told the board on Aug. 8 that HSS intends to issue a competitive request for proposals for basic life and long-term disability insurance covering active City & County of San Francisco and Superior Court employees, with coverage to begin Jan. 1, 2026 if the process proceeds on schedule.

Visconti described the multi-month procurement process (RFI versus RFP distinctions) and noted that the life and LTD contracts have not been competitively bid in roughly a dozen years. Aon actuary Mike Clark told commissioners the employer-paid basic life and LTD programs represent an estimated $7,000,000 in employer spend, plus roughly $1,000,000 in member-paid supplemental premiums. Clark said current loss ratios remain generally favorable to insurers but there is ongoing review of experience and that a multi-year rate commitment (customarily three years) is expected from respondents.

Board members asked about plan continuity for existing claims and Clark clarified that claims filed while Hartford is the insurer will be adjudicated by Hartford through the contract period (e.g., claims with dates of death or disability on or before Dec. 31, 2025 remain under the current carrier). Commissioners requested HSS return with a detailed RFP timeline and to discuss scope and deadlines at upcoming meetings.