Premiums to rise in 2026 for more than 750k NC residents under State Health Plan
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Health insurance premiums are going up for more than 750,000 people who use the North Carolina State Health Plan.
The decision on the plan, which provides health care coverage to teachers, state employees, and retirees, was made during a Board of Trustees meeting on Friday.
According to the state treasurer, the change is in response to the plan grappling with a $507 million deficit, and is the final step in the three-pronged effort to provide financial stability.
To lessen the financial burden on the state's lowest-paid employees, officials said the plan will introduce salary-based premiums in 2026.
"Today's vote was not easy, but these increases were necessary to keep the Plan solvent and to keep this benefit in place for those that serve and have served the state of North Carolina," said Treasurer Brad Briner, who chairs the board. "The goal now is to move forward and focus on ways to improve benefits through transparency and better partnerships and programs to keep our members healthy."
The state treasurer said members will receive more information about benefits and premium rates prior to the 2026 Open Enrollment period, which will take place Oct. 13-31.
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