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Budget board adopts $150 monthly cash-in-lieu policy for employees who opt out of health coverage
Summary
The board unanimously adopted handbook language clarifying that employees who opt out of the countys basic health plan may receive $150 per month but will lose eligibility for certain county-provided coverages; partial opt-out exceptions were defined.
The Cleveland County Budget Board unanimously adopted language clarifying the countys cash-in-lieu (opt-out) policy at its Sept. 29 special meeting. Commissioner Rod Cleveland read the proposed Opt-Out Benefit Policy, and the board voted to add handbook language that defines the $150 monthly allowance and the eligibility consequences for employees who decline the countys basic health plan.
The adopted policy states that employees who opt out of the basic health insurance plan will receive a monthly cash allowance of $150 in lieu of benefits but become ineligible for other county-provided coverages that require enrollment in the basic plan, including basic life insurance (a prerequisite for optional supplemental and dependent life coverage) and disability insurance. The policy allows a partial opt-out option: employees who opt out of health and dental coverage only may retain basic and supplemental life insurance and disability insurance. The $150 allowance may be applied to vision coverage, contributed to an FSA, or added to net pay as taxable income. The board voted unanimously to carry the motion.
The board also agreed to postpone additional handbook changes until staff finalize the details and return with clarified language next week.
