New Bedford Council to Discuss Opt-Out Municipal Insurance Program

NEW BEDFORD - The New Bedford City Council President is looking to switch up the insurance program for City workers.

Joe Lopes says the City would be able to save money by offering an opt-out medical insurance program for municipal employees. "If an employee decides to opt out of the insurance, they have to opt out for a minimum of five years, and the City would give them a percentage of the difference of the insurance cost," says Lopes.

Lopes says the plan has worked in other communities like Somerset, where "opt-out employees" receive a roughly $2,500 credit, saving the Town of Somerset an estimated$10-15,000 dollars per employee that opts out.

Employees could enroll under their spouse's plan or through another private provider.

The plan will be discussed at Thursday night's City Council meeting.