HCA to waive spousal surcharge when employees waive into the other state program; refunds issued retroactive to Jan. 1

Dave explained that a public commenter’s question prompted staff to reexamine the spousal surcharge policy and administrative language across both PEBB and SEBB. The result: staff will not apply the $50 monthly spousal surcharge in situations where a spouse waives SEBB eligibility to remain a dependent in PEBB, or vice versa. "So we are actually going into the system, making the adjustment on the account to indicate that they won't be paying the surcharge prospectively and then again, making that retro to January 1," Dave said.

Staff described ongoing technical work — pulling billing files, preparing refund communications and updating benefits 24/7 content and surcharge forms — and said they have begun communications with benefits administrators at agencies and school districts. The board engaged with staff on the operational timeline; staff said they have started the billing work and will mail notices to refund recipients.