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Commission backs letting county commissioners join state health‑care savings plan
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Summary
The pension commission recommended inclusion of SF4764 in the 2026 pension omnibus after approving an amendment to permit county commissioners to participate in the state's health‑care savings plan; authors said the change is permissive and costs are borne by participants.
Senator Nelson and Representative Cha proposed legislation to allow elected county commissioners to participate in the state's health‑care savings plan, which enables pre‑tax wage contributions to pay future medical expenses.
Commissioner Gregory Wright described personal experiences with severe injuries and a spouse’s health events as rationale for allowing commissioners access to the existing voluntary plan. The authors said the change is permissive and does not cost the state or counties directly because participation and contributions are made by the individual through payroll deductions.
The committee adopted an author's 1a amendment to revise contribution language and to permit participation through a governing‑board resolution or participation plan. Members asked whether other elected officials (township supervisors, city council members, school board members) could be included; staff said eligibility is broad and the amendment adds a participation mechanism permitting local units to authorize contributions by resolution.
Outcome: Representative Cha moved and the commission voted to recommend SF4764 (as amended) be included in the 2026 pension omnibus bill.
