May 2020 S Message Presidentas MEMBERS’ TACKLE CORONAVIRUS FRANK VALERI and Began Doing So on March S We Go to Press in Late WE ARE HERE 16Th

11 BEACON STREET, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02108-3024 May 2020 s Message PresidentAS MEMBERS’ TACKLE CORONAVIRUS FRANK VALERI and began doing so on March s we go to press in late WE ARE HERE 16th. March, life in our coun- We are in regular, ongoing FOR YOU communication with federal, state Atry – like much of the world – has come to a standstill as and local officials to help support develop treatments and a cure. any aspect of their work impacting the coronavirus crisis unfolds. My Meanwhile, it is important to follow public retirees. This includes com- hope is that the worst is behind us expert advice and take the steps nec- municating to you that your Social by the time this newsletter is pub- essary to protect ourselves. Security and pension payments lished in mid-April. However, I fear Here at Mass Retirees we have would be made on time! that may not be the case. done our best to protect our team, In all the years since the creation While our public health officials while maintaining our mission to be of these programs, not a single pay- and medical experts work to slow here to help our members. As we ment has ever been missed. And I the spread of COVID-19 and tend to saw the situation deteriorate over- do not envision future payments to the sick, it is important we remain seas, we took the needed steps in safe. I have all the faith in the world February to ensure that we could that our medical professionals will fully run our operations remotely CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 u MEDICAL INFLATION DRIVES GIC PREMIUMS UP ue to a jump in health NO INCREASE IN care costs, monthly INSIDE THIS ISSUE Dinsurance premiums for COPAYMENTS OR those enrolled in the state’s Group DEDUCTIBLES WEP UPDATE Insurance Commission will increase Congressmen Richie Neal (MA) & Kevin Brady (TX) for Fiscal Year ‘21. The new plan Medicare, is 5.1%. This increase is rates will be effective July 1 but are in-line with overall health insurance Page 3 paid in the June pension checks. market trends between 5% and 7%. While members will see an The GIC indicated that the driving increase in their monthly premiums, factor is medical inflation, in other MATTHEW VENO GIC’s New Executive Director their copayments and deductibles words, the cost of the product itself. After nearly a decade of sta- will remain unchanged from FY20. Page 8 As we anticipated by us in ear- bility with the price of health care lier reports, the average increase across all plans, non-Medicare and CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 u GIC FY21 PREMIUMS SEE PAGES 10 & 11 The Voice of the Retired Public Employee

professionals to safeguard our PRIM Board, to protect our pensions. President’s retirement funds. Following the 2008 A special thanks also needs to be Financial crisis, the state’s Pension extended to Mass Retirees Executive Message Reserves Investment Management Vice President Paul Shanley. Since CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 u (PRIM) Board, along with local retire- joining PRIM in 2008, as the financial ment systems, worked hard at struc- markets collapsed, Paul has played a retirees ever being in doubt. turing diverse asset allocation and key role in ensuring that every pos- Our Association has also been putting protections in place to help sible step has been taken to protect in regular contact with officials from mitigate losses in the event of a our pension assets. the state GIC, Blue Cross Blue Shield Because of this collec- and the MIIA to guarantee that tive work, our public pension retirees’ healthcare needs will con- systems will remain strong tinue to be met. Should any of our and ready to capitalize on members come in contact with the economic success in the coronavirus, all testing and medical future. treatments are fully covered. We are going through We are also making sure that a very difficult time, but we we regularly communicate with our will persevere and overcome members. In lieu of our springtime these challenges. We will do DEB GOLDBERG PAUL SHANLEY area meetings, we are holding a STATE TREASURER EXECUTIVE V.P. so because we are strong series of telephone town halls. This PRIM CHAIR PRIM BOARD MEMBER and we were prepared. allows members to engage with us, Meanwhile, please know ask questions and stay informed – all severe financial crisis. that we are here for you. If you have from the safety of your own home. There is no doubt that those questions or need help, do not hes- It is times like these when we measures are now being tested. So itate to call upon us. We can be can truly appreciate how import- far all indications are that while our reached either at the office number ant it is to have the highest quality 104 retirement systems have suf- or at the personal contact numbers health insurance benefits, along fered significant losses, the risk mit- contained on your membership with access to some of the best doc- igation steps put in place over the card. You can also email us at info@ tors and hospitals anywhere in the past 12 years have proven effective. massretirees.com. world. I want to thank State Treasurer I also want to take special notice Deb Goldberg, as well as her prede- We are all in this together. of the work that has been done over cessor Steve Grossman for the work the years by our public pension they have both done, as chairs of the

the average premium increase and the lowest 3%. The higher end Medical is 3.2%. Approximately 75,000 increases are impacting the Tufts of the total number are in the Health and UniCare plans that offer Inflation most popular plan, UniCare OME a broader network and products. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 u with CIC, followed by Harvard “While we may have antici- Medicare Advanced (over 16,000) pated rate increases, we’re par- services, costs began to rapidly and Tufts Medicare Complement ticularly concerned by the higher accelerate in 2019. The cost of pro- plan (almost 9,500). The premium increases for the non-Medicare viding services such as labs and increase for all three of these plans plans and their impact on retir- X-rays, ER visits, prescriptions and is 3.3%. ees who are not Medicare eligi- surgical procedures have risen It’s important to remember that ble,” comments Association CEO even though overall utilization has the benefits across all Medicare Shawn Duhamel. “This segment of decreased. The impact of this is plans remain the same as FY2020. retirees are already paying more in reflected in the plan rate increases The GIC will continue to offer the deductibles and copayments and presented at the GIC’s February Tufts Medicare Preferred, the only these increases, in terms of real 27th meeting. Medicare Advantage option. dollars, will only further undermine For the GIC’s six Medicare On the non-Medicare side, the supplement plans, insuring average increase will be 5.5%, with approximately 103,844 enrollees, the highest increase being 7.6% CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 u

22 May 2020 WEP REFORM UPDATE COSPONSORS GROW IN HOUSE, AS SENATE PROPOSAL EMERGES

upport for reform of the Republican proposals aim to reform spouse. Social Security Windfall the WEP for current retirees and Another area of difference SElimination Provision create a new Social Security for- is how the competing proposals (WEP) continues to grow would impact future retir- on Capitol Hill. ees. For anyone first eli- The proposal crafted gible for Social Security by Massachusetts on or after 1/1/22 the pro- Congressman Richard posals seek to ensure Neal, H.R. 4540, now has that current active public 140 cosponsors in the employees are not unin- House of Representatives. tentionally harmed by the This bill has the full support new formula that would of Mass Retirees, along replace the WEP law. This with broad endorsement unintended problem sur- from a growing number of faced in 2016, when it was national retiree organiza- discovered that the biparti- HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE tions and public employee CHAIRMAN RICHIE NEAL (D-SPRINGFIELD) & san WEP reform bill (H.R. unions. RANKING MINORITY MEMBER KEVIN BRADY (R-HOUSTON) 711) would have slightly Neal’s Republican counterpart mula for all future retirees, there are reduced Social Security benefits of on the Ways and Means Committee, important differences. some future retirees with substan- Texas Congressman Kevin Brady, The largest difference would tial credit under Social Security. has his own WEP reform proposal apply to current retirees impacted by Both Neal and Brady have H.R. 3934. Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) the WEP. Neal’s proposal restores up worked closely with stakeholder and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) have intro- to $150 a month in relief payments groups over the past three years duced legislation in the US Senate for those first eligible for Social to develop a new set of proposals (S. 3401) that mirrors that filed in the Security before 1/1/22. Republican aimed at grandfathering or holding House by Brady. proposals provide $100 a month While the Democrat and for the retiree and another $50 for a CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 u

Hall) and West your continued loyalty.” Springfield. In place of these area meetings, “Our fore- we will be holding a series of tele- SPRINGTIME most concern phone town halls. Our first Tele-Town is the health Hall with 675 members was a big AREA MEETINGS and safety of success. We also will be increasing our members,” our outreach through digital media. CANCELED comments Members should monitor our toll-free Association hotline (updated each Friday after- LEO DELANEY Meeting noon), as well as email for ongoing MEETING COORDINATOR Coordinator developments. ue to the current outbreak Leo Delaney. “The most important At this time, our next scheduled of the coronavirus (COVID- thing we can do right now is keep meeting is our Annual Meeting, to be D19), we have canceled our everyone safe by following the advice held on Friday, September 11th at The springtime area meetings in the follow- of public health experts. Mass Retirees Lantana in Randolph. Please look to ing locations: Somerville, Leominster, looks forward to seeing you at future the July edition of The Voice for further Hyannis. Peabody, Boston (Florian area meetings and deeply appreciates news and meeting announcements.

3 The Voice of the Retired Public Employee RETIREE ELIGIBILITY FOR FEDERAL STIMULUS n an effort to help those particularly our friends from the directly harmed by the corona- Texas Retired Teachers Association, Ivirus crisis and to help spur a What You the rebate was extended to include quick economic recovery, the federal most retirees,” explains Association government has passed a $2 trillion Need To Know General Counsel Bill Rehrey. dollar stimulus package. Contained “Unfortunately, we do have within are direct cash payments to a small number of public retirees Americans. $150,000 for married couples. who are not eligible. These are retir- Working with our national coa- Eligibility for checks from the ees who do not qualify for Social lition partners, Mass Retirees advo- IRS will be based on 2018 and 2019 Security and receive very small pen- cated for the inclusion of retirees returns, and for Social Security they sions that eliminate the need to file within the stimulus. Thankfully, will use information from the Social Congress heard these calls to action Security Administration. federal tax returns. and have made all public retirees eli- In other words, in order to receive “Earlier versions of the stimu- gible for the cash payments. a cash rebate retirees must meet the lus had some retirees receiving the This comes in the form of a one- income guidelines AND have filed a payment and others not. This would time tax rebate check of $1,200 per federal income tax return for either have been confusing and unfair. The individual and $500 per child for 2018 or 2019 OR receive Social goal is to infuse money into the econ- those with a valid SSN. There are Security benefits in 2020. omy to help drive a quick recovery.” no earned income or tax liability If a retiree has neither filed fed- “We also need to thank requirements to receive these rebate eral taxes in either of those years nor Congressman Richie Neal checks. receives Social Security, then they (D-Springfield) for helping to ensure The full rebate amount is avail- are not eligible for the federal stim- that all public retirees are covered, able for those with incomes at ulus rebate. regardless of whether or not they or below $75,000 for individuals, “An early version of the stim- receive Social Security or file federal ulus bill excluded most retirees. $112,500 for head of household, and income tax returns.” Working with our coalition partners,

likelihood of passing full repeal leg- main focus is to get as much money islation through the House and U.S. in WEP relief into our members’ wal- WEP Update Senate is a longshot – at best. lets ASAP. These payments would CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 u “Full repeal has failed for 37 be indexed to inflation and will grow years, without a single bill ever over time. Once we get something having been reported out of a passed, we can continue to work to harmless future retirees from Congressional Committee. This improve the benefit while also find- benefit reductions. The Republican includes periods back in the 90s, ing a solution for the GPO. proposal effectively creates a when we had over 300 House “With the challenges facing our 40-year hold harmless period, that cosponsors. Despite everyone’s country right now, the last thing we would expire for those retiring after best efforts, we do not believe this can do is allow the perfect to be the 12/31/2059. Neal’s proposal creates a to be a viable option,” explains enemy of the good. Our members permanent hold harmless provision Mass Retirees Chief Executive need relief from the WEP and they that would continue in perpetuity. Officer Shawn Duhamel. “We have need it now.” In addition to the bills put forth broad bipartisan consensus that the Nationwide, the WEP law that focus on WEP reform, propos- WEP is unfair and that it needs to be impacts some 2 million public retir- als exist in the House and Senate reformed. ees spread across all 50 states. In that would fully repeal both the WEP “Democrat and Republican Massachusetts alone, more than and GPO altogether. But while the proposals are similar and there is 73,000 residents have had their House bill, H.R. 141, now has 245 a willingness to find a reasonable Social Security benefits reduced by House cosponsors, Association and compromise to get a bill passed the WEP law. coalition officials caution that the into law this session. Obviously, our

4 May 2020

RETIREES ON FRONT LINES FIGHTING CORONAVIRUS Special Legislation Waives Work Limits

hile many of us are iso- the COVID-19 pandemic, a special that a retiree must comply with both lated at home with our waiver was announced that would the hour and earnings restrictions Wfamilies during these exempt retirees working in the pub- (not just one of them) or unfortu- uncertain times, public employees lic sector here in Massachusetts nately find themselves in violation of are on the front lines helping to from the restrictions on how much the law. The restrictions do not apply deal with the crisis and keeping us they will be able to work while the to those working for the federal gov- safe. Deemed “essential” our med- emergency order is in effect. The ernment or in the private sector. ical teams, public health workers legislation, signed as part of a larger Association Legislative Chairman and first responders are out in the piece to assist municipalities in deal- Tom Bonarrigo had the following field providing critical services and ing with the crisis, allows retirees to to say: “While we continue to work working tirelessly for incredibly long work beyond the hour and earning on H2213, our bill that increases the hours. restrictions in Section 91 of M.G.L. number of part-time hours from 960 But as the demand for their ser- Chapter 32. to 1200, filed by vices increasingly grows, they’re The exemption provided in the Representative being stretched thin and could legislation will allow those retirees Mark Cusack undoubtedly use plenty of backup. to continue in these critical posi- (D-Braintree), we That needed help can be provided by tions without having to worry about are pleased that public retirees, many of whom are going over the allotted 960 hours measures have Mass Retirees members. per year or the income restriction been taken by As the pandemic grew into a cri- and the threat of a penalty. It should Governor Baker TOM BONARRIGO sis in March, we heard from a num- be noted that the exemption does LEGISLATIVE CHAIRMAN and the legisla- ber of members working part-time in not apply to those working under a ture to address various public health, medical and disability retirement. The exemp- the immediate other important public service jobs. tion will be monitored by the Public need. Our retirees are and will be on These members were being asked Employee Retirement Administration the front lines, many at risk to their to work additional hours to help fill Commission (PERAC). own health. The last thing they need the void, but were concerned about Currently, retirees who return to to worry about is being penalized for being found in violation of state law. the public sector can only work a total providing vital services.” of 960 hours in a calendar year AND RESTRICTIONS LIFTED FOR 2020 earn only the difference between Mass Retirees is proud of the the current pay for their former job vital work being performed Upon hearing members’ con- and their pension plus an additional by our members. To everyone cerns, Association officials contacted $15,000. It’s important to emphasize, working in these roles, thank state officials and legislative leaders. as we did, the conjunctive “AND” you and please STAY SAFE! As part of the effort to address in the preceding sentence, meaning

Benefit Fairs Canceled & Open Enrollment Extended As a result of the coronavirus crisis and Governor Baker’s restrictions on ATTENTION: public gatherings, the Group Insurance Commission (GIC) has canceled all nine Benefit Fairs that had been scheduled during the month of April. GIC Also, please note that GIC has also extended the deadline for Annual Enrollment from Friday, May 1 to Monday, June 1, 2020. ENROLLEES We know that some GIC enrollees look forward to attending these fairs. But your safety and that of others must be Priority #1!

5 The Voice of the Retired Public Employee MORE LOCAL RETIREES ENROLLING IN MEDICARE Made Eligible With Buy-In Program

t was July 1, 2016 when the supplement insurance is with Blue Town of Ware enrolled its retir- Cross (Medex 2 with PDP). MASS RETIREES Iees, who were 65 or over and “While I pay for the Medicare non-Medicare eligible, into the fed- Part B premium ($144.60 monthly), MEETS WITH eral insurance program. Ware was the town is picking up 70% of my the first to implement what we’ve Blue Cross supplement premium. MIIA These new enrollees will be paying the same as I am – nothing more and nothing less. “I must admit that I was somewhat concerned when going from the active (non-Medicare) plans to Medicare. So I can appreciate any anxiety that they may be having. Speaking for myself, I can tell them my experience back then and now CEO SHAWN DUHAMEL WITH MIIA’S HEALTH TRUST PROJECT MANAGER MONICA SMIGLIANI & has been very good with no prob- HEALTH BENEFITS TRUST MANAGER CHRIS BAILEY lems at all.” The City of Methuen will be enrolling 29 retirees who weren’t ver the decades Mass Retirees has had its disputes METHUEN’S PEC DESIGNEE KEN DOHERTY & otherwise eligible for Medicare. – sometimes bitter - with RETIREMENT BOARD’S MIKE HENNESSEY “Regardless the number, these retir- O the Mass. Municipal Association (MMA) ees need to have a smooth transi- over COLAs, pensions and retiree health called the Medicare Buy-In Program. tion,” comments retired firefighter care. But currently we have common But it certainly wasn’t the last. Ken Doherty. ground with its insurance arm, MIIA Every July since then, more and Earlier this year, Doherty suc- (Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance more communities have followed ceeded another mem- Mass Retirees Association). Ware’s lead, and this year is no ber, Mike Hennessey, on the city’s We’re referring to the Medicare different. PEC. Hennessey, a retired fire cap- Buy-In Program that’s being reported In addition to the municipalities tain, is one of the two elected mem- on this very page and has been chroni- that we’ve previously reported on bers on the Methuen Retirement cled in earlier issues of The Voice. As we (Peabody, New Bedford and Saugus), Board. see it, this program seeks to address a the towns of Danvers and Millbury, “With the Medicare Buy-In major issue impacting both state (GIC) as well as the city of Methuen, have Program already underway, I literally and local insurance programs – health taken the necessary steps to enroll hit the ground running,” continues care costs related to non-Medicare their 65 or over but non eligible Doherty. “But I’ve been reading the retirees. retirees into Medicare. That brings Association’s reports in The Voice “All interested parties have long the number of new Buy-In cities and and more recently been speaking recognized the need to address this towns to six this July 1. with the Association staff and Blue issue,” according to Association CEO “Danvers will be enrolling some Cross representatives to make cer- Shawn Duhamel. “And the Medicare 34 retirees into Medicare,” accord- tain that the enrollment will happen Buy-In Program is just one of the tools ing to Association member Len without a hitch.” that’s been developed to mitigate the Marshall, who serves as our des- “And those discussions will costs associated with health care cover- ignee on the town’s PEC (Public be ongoing particularly with the age for this segment of retirees. Employee Committee). “Currently “No question, we need to ensure I’m enrolled in Medicare and my CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 u CONTINUED ON PAGE 15 u

6 May 2020 RETIREMENT BOARDS ELECTIONS & APPOINTMENTS

Adams – The Adams Retirement Fire Chief Lewis Poore, Jr. and the Board. Hannigan, a long serv- Board held an election to fill the James Cleary III, Esq. The Board ing Board member in Pittsfield, vacant elected position for the administrator is David S. Van Dam. was recently term ending June 30, 2021. The Hull – Greg Galvin was re-ap- named the only candidate nominated was the pointed as the fifth member to the Mass Retirees director of the Adams Free Library, Board by the Hull Retirement Board Berkshire District Holli Jayko. The other members of members. Board members making Vice President, the Board include Mary Beverly*, the reappointment include Michael when it was Patricia Wol, George Haddad and Buckley*, Eileen White, retired announced TIM HANNIGAN Beth Matson, who is also the North firefighter, John King, and Brian PITTSFIELD by President Adams Retirement Administrator. Thompson. The Hull Retirement Valeri at the The Board administrator is Cheryl Administrator is Lauren Durham. Association’s Berkshire area meet- DeMarsico. Maynard – The Maynard ing last fall. The other members Amesbury – Donna Cornoni,* Retirement Board declared Patrick on the Board include Matthew city treasurer/collector, was Hakey elected as the Board’s fourth Kerwood*, Gerald Doyle, retired re-elected to her fourth term on member, as he was determined to firefighter Timothy Bartini and the Amesbury Retirement Board. be the only candidate nominated Berkshire County Retirement Board Concurrently, City Clerk, Bonnijo for the election. The Board mem- Accountant William Flynn. The Kitchin, was also elected for her bers include Michael Guzzo, Kevin Board executive director is Karen second term by the members in Petersen, Jean Ignachuck and Lancto. the same election. The other three retired Administrative Law Judge Reading – The Reading members include Angel Wills, Craig Christopher Connolly*, Esq. The Retirement Board declared Bailey, and David S. Van Dam. The executive director of the Board is FirefighterDavid Gentile the winner Board administrator is Kevin Caira. Kenneth DeMars. for one of the Board’s elected seats. Clinton – The Clinton Retirement Newburyport – FirefighterDavid ran unopposed for his sec- Board declared retired Police Jeffrey Cutter was re-elected unop- ond term to the Board. Other mem- Lieutenant Joseph Casasanto the posed to his third term on the bers serving with him are Sharon winner for his third term as he was Newburyport Angstrom, Carol Roberts, Joseph the only candidate nominated for Retirement Coughlin and Thomas Clough*. election. The other members serv- Board. The other The Board administrator is Colleen ing on the Board include, Firefighter members on the Loughlin. Michael Cislak, Paul Cherubini* Board, declaring Wakefield – In the election for a vacant seat on the Diane Magliozzi and David Baird. Jeff the winner Wakefield Retirement Board, the Board deter- The Retirement Board administra- in his re-election, JEFFREY CUTTER mined that Dennis Fazio, DPW tor is Patty Hazel. are retired NEWBURYPORT supervisor of forestry and parks, Haverhill – The Haverhill Firefighter Joseph was the only qualified candidate Retirement Board declared retired Spaulding*, Ethan Manning, retired and declared him the winner. The City Auditor William J. Klueber* Town Administrator John Moak other members making the declara- re-elected, as he was unopposed in and Alexander Kravchuk Fravjik. tion were Kevin Gill* Joseph Albert, the election. Bill is also the retiree The Board administrator is Laurie Jr. and Daniel Sherman, Actuary. appointed by the Association to Burton. The Board’s executive director is serve on the city’s Public Employee Pittsfield – The Pittsfield Cathy Cheek. Committee(PEC). Also serving on Retirement Board declared, retired Fire Lieutenant the Board are Charles Benevento, Timothy Hannigan *Denotes Chair Richard MacDonald, retired Deputy the winner in his re-election bid to

7 The Voice of the Retired Public Employee Medicare CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 u MATT VENO rapidly changing developments surrounding the spread of corona- APPOINTED TO virus. I’m confident that despite potential obstacles, Blue Cross will LEAD GIC do all they can to ensure a smooth transition for the retirees affected.” FORMER SALEM CITY COUNCILOR Understandably, the coronavi- & HEALTHCARE EXEC rus has disrupted future meetings with retirees. This includes the town t it’s February 27th meeting, the state’s Group of Millbury and its 10-12 retirees Insurance Commission voted to appoint Matthew who are being enrolled in Medicare Veno as the agency’s new Executive Director. A for- under the Buy-In Program. A mer Salem City Councilor, Veno most recently served as the Despite the meeting being First Deputy Commissioner at the Massachusetts Division of cancelled for now, work contin- Insurance. ues on finalizing enrollment. For Veno was one of two finalists for the position, both of its retiree/employee health insur- whom were interviewed by the full 17-member commission ance, Millbury participates in MIIA at the February public meeting. The position became vacant (Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance in December, when former Association), which has established Director Roberta Herman stepped the necessary third party billing down in order to become the arrangement with Medicare. Chief Executive Officer of Joslin MIIA will pay directly the Diabetes Clinic. affected retiree’s Part A premium, Since our creation in 1968, any Part A surcharge and Part B Mass Retirees has held a very penalty and then invoice Millbury close relationship and open-door for these costs. In this way, these policy with the GIC. That relationship began with GIC’s founding new enrollees will be treated no Director William Burke and contin- differently than Millbury’s current ued through Herman, with whom Medicare retirees, like Doherty and MATTHEW VENO the Association had formed a Hennessey, who pay their Part B GIC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR close working bond over the past and supplement plan premiums. year. “As July 1 approaches, we will “Nancy McGovern was at the interviews in February and remain in close contact with Blue reported back how impressed she was with Matt Veno. When Cross and MIIA,” comments CEO we heard he had been selected as the new Director, I immedi- Shawn Duhamel. “Retirees in ately emailed him to offer our congratulations. He has a good the six cities and towns, that are reputation from his time as an elected official in Salem, as well implementing the Medicare Buy-In as from his tenure at Harvard Pilgrim and the DOI,” recalls Program this year, deserve a seam- Association CEO Shawn Duhamel. less transition. “Twenty minutes later he called to say thank you and con- “According to MIIA, a compara- vey his desire to work closely with our Association. Frank ble number, to this year’s six, may Valeri and I have since had several conversations with Matt. He be implementing the program for knows how important the GIC is to our members, and we are July 2021. Seeing how it’s worked very much looking forward to working with him. “As healthcare costs continue to rise, the challenge for successfully over the past four the GIC will be to maintain high quality and affordable health years, we won’t be surprised if the insurance, while not shifting new costs onto enrollees. Mass number grows.” Retirees will continue to do our part to foster new ideas, while making sure our members have a strong voice at the table.

8 May 2020 HIGH DEDUCTIBLE PLANS REVISTED Concern For Non-Medicare Retirees

lmost 2 ½ years ago as municipal insurance pools. With (November 2017) we over fifty participating communities Atook an in-depth look at or governmental units, the Cape Cod a different type of health insurance Group also claims to be one of the plan being offered locally - High largest pools, and one of the partici- Deductible Health Plans or HDHPs. pants is the town of Dennis. SHAWN DUHAMEL MASS RETIREES CEO We raised concerns then for our Association member Bob Rolanti non-Medicare retirees and we still has been serving as the retiree des- ‘High deductible have them today. ignee on the Dennis PEC (Public plans may offer Back then we reported on HDHPs Employee Committee). He is also that were being offered by the Cape one of the two elected members on premium savings to Cod Municipal Health Group. Having the Barnstable County Retirement municipalities, been started in 1987, the Cape Board. Cod Group lays claim as the old- “Bob had reached out to us in but at what future est municipal joint group purchase 2017 when Cape Cod began to offer group in Massachusetts. what they called High Deductible costs to non-Medicare We commonly refer to these Health Savings Account (HDHSA) retirees?’ joint purchase groups, which are plans from Blue Cross and Harvard authorized under the municipal group insurance law or Chapter 32B, CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 u SPEAKING BEFORE OTHER GROUPS Mass Retirees Fulfilling Its Vital Educational Role

mong its principal func- before the group by Association CEO advocacy, educational/informational tions, Mass Retirees Shawn Duhamel, Mass Retirees was activities and member services. He Aserves as an educational invited back. President Frank Valeri, also explained the new Subscriber organization. In fulfilling that vital Membership Program role, Association officials make for employees who are themselves available to speak retirement eligible. before other retiree organizations As their elected and employee groups on issues of member on the State public retirement. Retirement Board, Recently, Association President Valeri made them Frank Valeri was the guest speaker aware of important at an event sponsored by the UMass issues at retirement. Medical Center’s Mature Workforce UMASS MEDICAL: PACKED HOUSE LISTENS TO FRANK VALERI And finally Valeri out- Sub-Committee. As background, the lined the Association’s Sub-Committee is part of the Center’s with Meeting Coordinator Leo efforts to reform the current unfair Committee on Equal Opportunity Delaney, attended this year’s event. WEP law, which became the pre- and Diversity that has as one of its Well over 120 employees packed dominate issue during the Q&A major functions enabling UMass the lecture hall to hear from Valeri on session. Medical employees to better under- a wide range of retirement issues. According to Valeri, “I appreci- stand their retirement opportunities. His presentation was also transmit- ated very much the invitation and It so happens that Association mem- ted by video to other employees at more importantly the opportunity ber Josh Singer, a retired UMass UMass Medical. to interact with those in attendance Medical professor, remains active Valeri described the Association’s who were very interested in learning with the Sub-Committee. extensive work in serving its 53,000 more about their retirement.” After a previous presentation members, including legislative

9 The Voice of the Retired Public Employee FOR TEXT, SEE PAGES 1, 2 & 18 GROUP INSURANCE COMMISSION MONTHLY GIC INSURANCE RATES EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2020

TOTAL MONTHLY PREMIUM RETIRED ON OR BEFORE JULY 1, 1994 NON-MEDICARE RETIREE PLANS (90/10 COVERAGE) IN PHOTOS HEALTH PLAN PREMIUMS (DOES NOT INCLUDE $5,000 BASIC LIFE) PLAN TYPE INDIVIDUAL FAMILY INDIVIDUAL* FAMILY* INDIVIDUAL* FAMILY* INDIVIDUAL* FAMILY* INDIVIDUAL FAMILY Fallon Community Health Plan - Direct Care HMO $616.43 $1,556.03 $61.64 $155.60 $92.46 $233.40 $123.29 $311.21 $618.59 $1,561.48 Fallon Community Health Plan - Select Care HMO 833.27 2,025.95 83.33 202.60 124.99 303.89 166.65 405.19 836.19 2,033.04 Harvard Pilgrim Independence Plan POS 913.98 2,231.38 91.40 223.14 137.10 334.71 182.80 446.28 917.18 2,239.19 Harvard Pilgrim Primary Choice HMO 663.11 1,691.10 66.31 169.11 99.47 253.67 132.62 338.22 665.43 1,697.02 Health New England HMO 592.22 1,409.87 59.22 140.99 88.83 211.48 118.44 281.97 594.29 1,414.80 AllWays Health Partners Complete HMO HMO 685.47 1,783.21 68.55 178.32 102.82 267.48 137.09 356.64 687.87 1,789.45 Navigator by Tufts Health Plan POS 796.25 1,944.65 79.63 194.47 119.44 291.70 159.25 388.93 799.04 1,951.46 Tufts Spirit HMO 604.56 1,456.45 60.46 145.65 90.68 218.47 120.91 291.29 606.68 1,461.55 UniCare State Indemnity Plan / Basic Indemnity 1,103.56 2,445.85 110.36 244.59 165.53 366.88 220.71 489.17 1,107.42 2,454.41 with CIC (Comprehensive) Indemnity 1,159.70 2,573.70 166.50 372.43 221.68 494.73 276.86 617.02 1,163.76 2,582.71 UniCare State Indemnity Plan / Community Choice PPO-type 550.64 1,363.28 55.06 136.33 82.60 204.49 110.13 272.66 552.57 1,368.05 UniCare State Indemnity Plan / Plus PPO-type 721.22 1,716.49 72.12 171.65 108.18 257.47 144.24 343.30 723.74 1,722.50

MEDICARE PLANS FOR RETIREE & SURVIVOR TOTAL MONTHLY PREMIUM

HEALTH PLAN PREMIUMS (DOES NOT INCLUDE $5,000 BASIC LIFE) PLAN TYPE PER PERSON ( 90 / 10 COVERAGE )* ( 85 / 15 COVERAGE )* ( 80 / 20 COVERAGE )* ( 90 / 10 COVERAGE ) PER PERSON Harvard Pilgrim Medicare Enhance Medicare $402.63 $40.26 $60.39 $80.53 $40.26 $404.04 Health New England MedPlus Medicare 403.39 40.34 60.51 80.68 40.34 404.80 Tufts Health Plan Medicare Complement Medicare 382.54 38.25 57.38 76.51 38.25 383.88 Tufts Health Plan Medicare Preferred** Medicare 324.00 32.40 48.60 64.80 32.40 325.13 UniCare State Indemnity Plan / Medicare Extension (OME) Medicare 387.44 38.74 58.12 77.49 38.74 388.80 with CIC (Comprehensive) 398.47 49.77 69.14 88.52 49.77 399.86

A SAMPLING OF GIC MEDICARE CO-PAYMENTS FOR MORE DETAILS, PLEASE REFER TO GIC’S BENEFIT DECISION GUIDE

HEALTHCARE UNICARE INDEMNITY HARVARD PILGRIM TUFTS COMPLEMENT SERVICES PLAN OME PRESCRIPTIONS RETAIL MAIL RETAIL MAIL RETAIL MAIL 1st Tier $10 $25 $10 $25 $10 $25 2nd Tier $30 $75 $30 $75 $30 $75 3rd Tier $65 $165 $65 $165 $65 $165 OFFICE VISIT $10 $15 $15 RETAIL CLINIC $10 $15 $15 RADIOLOGY $0 $0 $0 NETWORK $10 $15 $15 MENTAL HEALTH (after first 4 visits of $0 co-pay) EMERGENCY ROOM $50 $50 $50 (waived if admitted) (waived if admitted) (waived if admitted) INPATIENT None None None

10 May 2020 GROUP INSURANCE COMMISSION MONTHLY GIC INSURANCE RATES EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2020

RETIRED ON OR BEFORE JULY 1, 1994 RETIRED AFTER JULY 1, 1994 & BEFORE RETIRED ON OR AFTER FEBRUARY 1, 2010*** MUNICIPAL RETIREES (90/10 COVERAGE) FEBRUARY 1, 2010*** (85/15 COVERAGE) (80/20 COVERAGE) (FULL MONTHLY COST)

HEALTH PLAN PREMIUMS (DOES NOT INCLUDE $5,000 BASIC LIFE) PLAN TYPE INDIVIDUAL FAMILY INDIVIDUAL* FAMILY* INDIVIDUAL* FAMILY* INDIVIDUAL* FAMILY* INDIVIDUAL FAMILY Fallon Community Health Plan - Direct Care HMO $616.43 $1,556.03 $61.64 $155.60 $92.46 $233.40 $123.29 $311.21 $618.59 $1,561.48 Fallon Community Health Plan - Select Care HMO 833.27 2,025.95 83.33 202.60 124.99 303.89 166.65 405.19 836.19 2,033.04 Harvard Pilgrim Independence Plan POS 913.98 2,231.38 91.40 223.14 137.10 334.71 182.80 446.28 917.18 2,239.19 Harvard Pilgrim Primary Choice HMO 663.11 1,691.10 66.31 169.11 99.47 253.67 132.62 338.22 665.43 1,697.02 Health New England HMO 592.22 1,409.87 59.22 140.99 88.83 211.48 118.44 281.97 594.29 1,414.80 AllWays Health Partners Complete HMO HMO 685.47 1,783.21 68.55 178.32 102.82 267.48 137.09 356.64 687.87 1,789.45 Navigator by Tufts Health Plan POS 796.25 1,944.65 79.63 194.47 119.44 291.70 159.25 388.93 799.04 1,951.46 Tufts Spirit HMO 604.56 1,456.45 60.46 145.65 90.68 218.47 120.91 291.29 606.68 1,461.55 UniCare State Indemnity Plan / Basic Indemnity 1,103.56 2,445.85 110.36 244.59 165.53 366.88 220.71 489.17 1,107.42 2,454.41 with CIC (Comprehensive) Indemnity 1,159.70 2,573.70 166.50 372.43 221.68 494.73 276.86 617.02 1,163.76 2,582.71 UniCare State Indemnity Plan / Community Choice PPO-type 550.64 1,363.28 55.06 136.33 82.60 204.49 110.13 272.66 552.57 1,368.05 UniCare State Indemnity Plan / Plus PPO-type 721.22 1,716.49 72.12 171.65 108.18 257.47 144.24 343.30 723.74 1,722.50

TOTAL MONTHLY PREMIUM RETIRED ON OR BEFORE RETIRED AFTER JULY 1, 1994 RETIRED AFTER SURVIVOR MUNICIPAL RETIREES JULY 1, 1994 & BEFORE FEBRUARY 1, 2010*** FEBRUARY 1, 2010*** NO BASIC LIFE (FULL MONTHLY COST)

IMPORTANT REFERENCE INFORMATION KEY HEALTH INSURANCE TELEPHONE NUMBERS *Does not include retiree cost for Basic Life additional CIC coverage. Insurance. Based upon your retirement date, MUNICIPAL RETIREES: For municipal retirees GROUP INSURANCE COMMISSION add the basic life cost (10%: $0.65; 15%: $0.98; enrolled in the GIC, the percentage of retiree 617-727-2310 20%: $1.30) to your health insurance premium premium contribution is negotiated and deter- UNICARE shown above. mined by the local PEC agreement and not set 800-442-9300 **Tufts Medicare Preferred is the only Medicare by the GIC. Amounts shown here are the total CVS CAREMARK / SILVERSCRIPT AdvantagePlan offered by the GIC. combined premium charged to the retiree and municipality, plus the administrative fee. 877-876-7214 ***If application to retire was filed after 10/01/09, PREMIUM PAYMENT: Premiums are effective also subject to 80/20. EXPRESS SCRIPTS beginning July 1, 2020 and will be deducted 855-283-7679 from June 2020 pension checks (one month in CIC: Catastrophic Illness Coverage (CIC) is an GIC RETIREE DENTAL PLAN optional retiree-pay-all part of the UniCare State advance). 866-292-9990 Indemnity Plan (OME and Basic). It increases SURVIVORS: With the overwhelming majority coverage under the plans to 100% in most cases. of surviving spouses enrolled in Medicare, we STATE RETIREE VISION PLAN Enrollees who do not opt for CIC coverage, have not included survivor non-Medicare rates 800-224-1157 receive only 80% coverage for some services, as within these charts. State survivors contribute MEDICARE 10% of the total monthly premium. well as pay higher deductibles. The Association 800-633-4227 strongly recommends that members opt for the

11 The Voice of the Retired Public Employee

continues Duhamel. “Now he has a discussing HDHPs. It was referred High new issue facing him – HDHPs.” to as “consumer driven” plans, “We were supposed to start which sounded a bit more positive Deductible negotiations after Labor Day but in tone. Regardless the terminol- that didn’t happen,” according to CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 u ogy, it had the same result as we Vars. “Around Christmas, I emailed saw it, namely reducing premium the town manager on commencing costs overall by potentially increas- the negotiation process, because I ing out-of-pocket costs for retirees. didn’t want us to be under any time Pilgrim” according to Association Then in 2018 when the GIC com- constraints. CEO Shawn Duhamel, “He was very missioners voted for the insurance “At our first meeting on this in concerned about these changes in plans to be offered for the next three early February, MIIA was suggesting the insurance program. fiscal years, they did not include a “And we shared his concerns, that we go forward with HDHP this HDHP. During this year’s enrollment, particularly the long term impact of year. I believed strongly that this GIC enrollees will not see a HDHP these plans on non-Medicare retir- was moving way too fast. option among the active choices. ees. Here’s why.” “I called for postponing negoti- But this fall, the GIC will begin If more and more employees, ations until this coming September who are younger and healthier, and contacted the Association for the process of determining what leave the traditional (typically lower assistance. We needed time to allow insurance plans will be offered in deductible and higher premium) the PEC, with the town, to fully 2021. That opens up the possibility plans for those with a high deduct- explore this issue. of a HDHP. ible but lower premium, then the “More importantly, we had to “At its February 27th meeting, unintended consequences of this ensure that our non-Medicare retir- the GIC again discussed HDHPs,” migration would be greater and ees would not be seriously impacted according to Association Legislative greater increases in the premiums by offering high deductible plans. Liaison Nancy McGovern, who was being paid by our non-Medicare I’m certainly pleased that our non-el- in attendance. members in the traditional plans. igible Medicare retirees will not be Worse yet, they could see their ben- impacted since we implemented the efits gradually being eroded.” Buy-In Program for them. That said, there still are non-Medicare retirees, ‘It’s noteworthy that the not age 65, who must be protected.” overall discussion at the WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW? Reading officials agreed to hold GIC was not favorable That’s then. So what’s happening off but just for now. So we expect to to these plans.’ now? As it turns out, more commu- be hearing from Vars and learning NANCY MCGOVERN nities are looking at HDHPs as part of what Reading plans to do. And we’ll LEGISLATIVE LIAISON their health insurance program. be there to help if he needs it. Duhamel offers the following, As for the Cape Cod Group, Bob “In fact, it reflected many of “We’ll continue to closely monitor Rolanti reports that the HDHPs are the same concerns that we have. this situation with Art, as we’ll do still being offered and will be again More pointedly, there was recog- with our other PEC designees facing this July. Even though they haven’t nition that migration by younger, the same. High deductible plans may drawn substantial enrollment over healthier enrollees to HDHPs could the past 3 years, as premiums con- offer premium savings to municipal- produce greater costs for the tradi- tinue to rise, that could change. So ities, but at what costs to non-Medi- tional non-Medicare plans, result- the jury remains out, at least for now. care retirees?” ing in higher and higher premiums While Rolanti will keep us for non-Medicare retirees in these updated on the Cape situation, other GIC: NOT IN THE OFFERING YET PEC designees have reached out to plans.” us about HDHPs. One example is Currently the GIC (Group “We appreciate that the GIC our Reading PEC designee, Arthur Insurance Commission) is not offer- recognizes this potential problem Vars. ing HDHPs to state and local retir- for thousands of retirees,” adds “Members may recall from the ees, as well as employees, who are Duhamel. “Any adoption of HDHPs March Voice that Art was heavily enrolled in their active plans. But calls for a very deliberate review of involved when Reading decided to July 2021 could be a different story. its impact on non-Medicare retirees. implement the Medicare “Buy-In” Back in 2017 we reported As always, we’re available to assist Program for its non-eligible retirees,” that the GIC commissioners were in that process.”

12 May 2020 WHAT IS MEDICARE ADVANTAGE Is It Right For You?

ith open enrollment (Part C),” according to Insurance and finally suggests some fun- underway, members Coordinator Cheryl Stillman. “You damental questions to ask when Wmay be examining may be asking yourself, which deciding. their options to see if they’re get- option is best for me?” First, what are the major differ- ting the best deal possible. “For To help our members answer ences between Original Medicare Medicare retirees it comes down to that question, we offer the fol- and Medicare Advantage? Here’s two basic options when choosing lowing primer that outlines the a side-by-side comparison of the coverage, namely what is known differences between these two two options. as Original Medicare (Part A and options, explains the key features Part B) and Medicare Advantage of a Medicare Advantage plan

ORIGINAL MEDICARE MEDICARE ADVANTAGE Part A which is commonly known as hospital coverage Part C which combines both Medicare Parts A and B Part B which is commonly known as medical coverage

Part D drug coverage is a separate plan Part D is included as part of most plans Original Medicare will have out-of- Because this is an all-in-one plan most plans have pocket costs such as 20% co-insurance lower out-of-pocket costs Participants can purchase a supplemental plan to cover those costs, which is done by most, if not all, public retirees Most plans have a network of doctors and hospitals the Participants have access to any doctor and hospital participant will have to use that takes Medicare in the U.S. (“freedom of choice”) Most plans may include additional benefits such as vision, hearing or dental

Medicare Advantage plans Medicare as well as emergency your out-of-pocket costs for cov- are plans that are offered by private and urgent care. Most plans also ered services. companies that are approved by include prescription drug coverage; Medicare and have yearly contracts however, it should be noted that not with Medicare. They must follow all types of Medicare Advantage Note: all of the rules set by Medicare and plans include this coverage, so Participants in Medicare you would need to purchase addi- they must notify you of any changes Advantage plans are still in the plan before the start of the tional coverage. In addition, most required to pay the Part B next open enrollment. Participants of these plan options have addi- premium. will have all of the same rights as tional benefits such as covering participants in Original Medicare. vision and hearing services, dental Participants will be covered services and some health and well- for all of the Part A and Part B ser- ness programs. Also worth noting, plans may have a yearly limit on vices that are covered by Original CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 u

13 The Voice of the Retired Public Employee Update LOCAL HEALTH REIMBURSEMENT ACCOUNTS

s part of our work involv- input.” ing local health insur- Range of According to Ken Hughes, Aance, Mass Retirees our Arlington designee, “Here the appoints the retiree designee on Activity Varies town established an HRA program over 180 PECs (Public Employees for retirees and employees in the Committees) across the state. Briefly, Widely active plans PECs are created when a city, town when we or other government entity adopts PEC designees on the issue of went into the certain local option provisions in the Health Reimbursement Accounts GIC. Municipal Insurance Law (Chapter (Arrangements) or HRAs.” “When 32B). HRAs can generally be described we first set it We’re referring to two laws: as a plan that is funded solely by up, the pro- the 1993 Coalition Bargaining Law a retiree’s former employer (city, gram was (Section 19) and the 2011 Municipal town, school district or local govern- under-uti- Insurance Reform Law (Sections 21 – ment entity) and reimburses them KEN HUGHES lized, but 23). Regardless which law is adopted, for qualified medical expenses. ARLINGTON PEC then labor one retiree designee, appointed by According to Igo, “We saw HRAs and the town began an aggressive the Association, and representatives being established by some com- informational campaign, and as from each of the local unions serve munities with their adoption of the result, utilization rose quickly. on a PEC that negotiates and enters Coalition Bargaining and Municipal “As the PEC retiree designee, I into insurance agreements with Insurance Reform Laws. highly encourage retirees, as well as officials. “As a result of these laws, pre- employees, in the active (non-Medi- mium savings were realized by com- care) plans to take a look at this “Members on PECs munities. Officials agreed with the great program and avail them- are volunteering their PEC to dedicate a portion of those selves of its benefits. If you can, visit services and for that they savings to fund the HRA. the town’s website that includes an informational page and excel- deserve our thanks. We “As I stated earlier, some but not all communities set up an HRA. It’s lent instructional video about the also assist them when important to emphasize that in other program. Here’s the web address: called upon.” cases, the PEC and local officials www.arlington.gov/departments/ agreed to apply the savings for an human-resources/for-employees.” ‘Insurance Premium Holiday’ or sim- Before moving on, it must be ilar health care purpose.” acknowledged that Arlington is com- mitted to funding the HRA and main- SURVEY RESPONSES taining it at $200,000. And they’re not the only ones. Igo continues, “With that, let’s “I think that as far as Billerica see where we’re at with HRAs. Here’s is concerned, we have an excellent a sampling of what we found out in plan,” says Association member TRICIA IGO our survey, namely that the range Ralph McKenna who is the town’s PEC COORDINATOR of activity varies widely across the PEC retiree designee. “We used the state. mitigation funds to reimburse 75% “And at times, we reach out “But before we begin, we’d like of prescription drugs in excess of to them to gather information on to thank those who responded to our what is happening locally,” says survey. We can’t have a good handle Igo. “Recently we surveyed our on local developments without your CONTINUED ON PAGE 15 u

14 May 2020

For those of you who have expressed UPDATE: MASS RETIREES interest in purchasing the license plate, we will be reaching out to confirm your LICENSE PLATE interest and complete a pre-order process once we have obtained the initial NON-PROFIT EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION BEING CREATED threshold. If you would like additional information or would like to pre-order, s we go to print, we have a few educational research foundation. This please contact us. hundred members that have foundation will be a dedicated, non-profit Aindicated interest in the Mass entity that will support educational initia- Under our current circumstances, Retirees License plate. As you know, we tives and research projects on issues that we prefer that you email us at need to have at minimum 750 members impact public retirees. [email protected] or pre-order the plates before the Registry The establishment of the license plate otherwise call at (617) 723-7283 of Motor Vehicles will issue it. In addition, and the foundation go hand-in-hand. A and if need be, leave us a message. the state requires that over a 5-year period portion of the initial $40 fee for the plate we have 3,000 people sign up. The license will go to fund the foundation and provide plate is not only an opportunity to show the organization with the resources to fund pride in the organization, but a way for innovative projects. The foundation will our members to show pride in the years of allow us to take our advocacy for public public service they provided. retirees to another level to reach a larger Along with offering this specialty audience and collaborate with our partners plate, Mass Retirees will be creating an across the country.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 u the future use of the funds, the town of Ashland did it. Our designee $300 for the fiscal year. Robert Hebden reported to us the MIIA “I believe that the original funds following: ”While we had a sizable CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6v l u have been depleted but thanks, in fund, it was under utilized. After sev- good measure, to the town man- that these retirees, like any retiree, ager and board of selectmen this eral PEC meetings, we voted unani- have affordable and high quality benefit still exists. It’s been running mously to distribute the funds evenly health insurance. But if we fail to so well that for the past few years it among the retirees and employees. develop measures, like Medicare hasn’t been an issue for the PEC to “It averaged out to about $700 Buy-In, to address the core problem of address.” for each retiree and employee who increasing costs, we face the prospect It’s important to note that state was on the plan for at least 3 years. of an ongoing struggle between retir- law requires a community to fund Town employees were given a one- ees and their former employers over the HRA from premium savings real- time payment in their pay checks, who’s going to pay.” ized from the first year only. While but to avoid complications, retirees At the local level, our initial some, like Arlington and Billerica, were given a Blue Health Benefit involvement with Medicare Buy-In have provided additional funding, card. was with Blue Cross, the state’s larg- others have not despite the best Like Middleboro and Ashland, est municipal insurer. Blue Cross efforts by our designees and their Lynnfield finds itself in a somewhat provides the health insurance plans PEC. similar situation. Our PEC designee that MIIA offers to its participating “When we originally set up an Judy Angelini has reported to us communities, districts and other local HRA in Middleboro, there were funds that there is very little money left in entities which could number as many to reimburse the Medicare retirees Lynnfield’s fund and only a few retir- as 140 by this July 1. And it was Blue as well as non-Medicare retirees ees have taken advantage. Cross that got us in touch with MIIA. and employees in the active plans,” And finally there are those with “I can report that the meeting reports PEC designee Gene Turney. no HRA. According to Pittsfield offi- with MIIA proved to be very produc- “As of now, there is no money for cials, while no HRA exists, there are tive,” continues Duhamel.” Not only Medicare retirees and approximately health savings accounts (HSAs) for did we discuss with Chris (Bailey) $310,000 for the non-Medicare retir- non-Medicare retirees and employ- and Monica (Smigliani) the Medicare ees and employees in the active ees in the High Deductible Plan Buy-In Program but also a wide range plans. Ed Note: Funds for the two (HDHP). of health care issues. groups are based upon the premium “As you can see from this sam- “We also know that there are at savings realized from each. least six communities that are explor- “There are some 100 non-Medi- pling, there is a wide range of ing the feasibility of implementing care retirees, with about 50 apply- activity when it comes to HRAs or Medicare Buy-In. So we expect that ing for reimbursement each year. Mitigation Funds,” concludes Igo. we’ll be talking with Chris and Monica Approximately $10,000 was paid out “As always, our members can let us over the ensuing months.” last year.” know about their experience In their While Middleboro is considering community.”

15 The Voice of the Retired Public Employee Medicare DIFFERENT TYPES OF ADVANTAGE PLANS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 u There are various types of Medicare Advantage plans and depending on what your former public employer provides, you may or may not have access to each type of plan.

Advantage Plans Include:

Health Maintenance Organization plans (HMO) - Usually provides coverage from doctors and hospitals in the plan’s network and most require you to get a referral from your primary care doctor.

Preferred Provider Organization plans (PPO) - Usually provides coverage from doctors and hospitals in the network. You can access those outside the network but it will most likely cost you more. In addition, these plans don’t usually require a referral to see a specialist.

Private Fee for Service plans (PFFS) - You can go to any Medicare-approved provider but that provider must have agreed to the plan’s payment terms for services provided.

Special Needs Plans (SNP) - These plans provide benefits for specific diseases, certain health care needs or limited incomes.

Medical Savings Account Plans (MSA)- These are plans that combine a high-deductible plan with a medical savings account that can be used to pay for costs. A Medical Savings Account is a special type of savings account that can be used to pay for medical costs.

You can join, switch or drop a Medicare Advantage plan during 3 enrollment periods. Your initial enrollment period (when you first become eligible for Medicare), general enrollment (January 1-March 31st each year) and open enrollment (October 15th-December 7th). Remember you must check with the Medicare Advantage carrier for any requirements and potential restrictions for each of these enrollment periods.

IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

So you think you may want to join a Medicare Advantage plan?

Here are some questions to ask as you compare plans:

• What are my costs? In addition to your premium, deductible, copayments or coinsurance what else are you responsible for?

• What type of services do you need and how often do use them? CHERYL STILLMAN INSURANCE COORDINATOR • Are your doctors in the networks? ‘You may want to take the oppor- • Do they have extra benefits but at an extra premium cost? tunity to examine your options. If I can help, please give me a call. “The vast majority of our members, including myself, are As always, that’s what I’m here enrolled in the Original Medicare with a supplement plan” reports Stillman. “And by most indications, they’re well satisfied with their for.’ coverage.”

16 May 2020 Profile: KEVIN BLANCHETTE Career Spans Decades Advocating for Public Retirees t age 65, Worcester Representative the unfunded liabilities which were County Regional Nick Buglione inhibiting future COLA benefits. ARetirement System’s of neighboring Kevin, the feisty chairman, Board Chairman Kevin Blanchette Methuen who once boldly interrupted a monthly had indicated he planned to retire was elected to meeting of the Commonwealth’s as CEO of the Central Mass. 50-town the House in 1969 Group Insurance Commission. He Retirement Board. and was named challenged an increase in the retir- However, members of the Public Service ees’ health insurance rates. The Board, while Chairman. Nick Commission later adjusted the proceeding to will always be rates to be more accessible to our NICK BUGLIONE accept Kevin’s well-remem- members. retirement, bered in the Although Kevin’s name was in evoked our annals of our Association. He the limelight in the ensuing years, Association’s remained a member of the House his skirmishes with public officials, much earlier until 1995 when he became a mem- including the governor, were no successful law ber of the Mass Commission of the secret. This was the price he paid on allowing retir- Blind. behalf of our Association’s agenda KEVIN BLANCHETTE ees to hold Earlier, Representative Buglione during his 10 years as chairman. office afterand Committee Senate Chair Sam “He stuck to his guns” is an old say- retiring. Rotondi of Winchester had the mis- ing that was attributed to Kevin on Recognizing Kevin’s lifetime fortune to chair the Public Service our behalf. experience and valued knowledge, Committee when Proposition 2 On the Senate side of his tenure the four remaining Board mem- ½ was a ballot vote in November, Kevin included Senators Bill Keating, bers; Joanne Savignac, Charlton 1980. This historic vote temporarily Arthur Lewis, Michael Morrissey and town treasurer; Pauline Lajoie, the killed our mandatory COLA law, tak- Tom Norton as strong supporters of Board’s retired executive assistant; ing years to fully recover. his pension agenda even though Gene Durgin, a former president of At his first hearing as Chairman, he clashed with Senate President the Mass. Public Pension Forum; Blanchette made it clear that public William Bulger at times. Keating is and Michael Donoghue, a retired pensions in Massachusetts were his now a Ninth District Congressman county treasurer, convinced Kevin top priority. Having been in the lime- and Morrissey, the Norfolk County to stay on as chairman. light for several years, our state’s District Attorney. “By reducing Kevin’s overall then 103 retirement boards had Rep. Kevin Blanchette resigned daily schedule, our Board’s mem- received negative publicity by the from the House of Representatives bers were able to keep him on,” media and welcomed Kevin’s plat- on October 1, 1993. Effective with said Gene Durgin. “He remains a form on their behalf. his resignation was the end of key connection to the Legislature Using his office as a launch- a 10-year relationship with our on all the areas of public retirement ing pad, Kevin not only fought for Association that brought major including regional and county retire- solvency within our retirement gains to retired public employees ment systems.” systems, but also successfully of the Commonwealth. Blanchette Blanchette, earlier a State championed improvements in our resigned to take a high-ranking Representative from Lawrence, pension cost-of-living law. state position as the head of the caught the attention of our Raising the COLA base and the Legislative Service Bureau. Association when in 1985 new increase in the survivor’s allowance In January 2001 Kevin continued House Speaker George Keverian were among the success stories of to serve in the public service hier- made changes in the House leader- Kevin’s years as House Chairman. archy when he was named Deputy ship. Fortunately the name of Kevin Blanchette, along with Senator Director of the Public Employee Blanchette, who was elected to the Jack Brennan, were the leaders in Retirement Administration House in 1981, was elevated to the the enactment of Chapter 697 which Commission (PERAC), prior to the office ofChairman of the Public authorized local retirement boards opportunity open at the Worcester Service Committee. to adopt a funding schedule, with aid Regional Retirement System. Kevin replaced popular from the state, in order to address

17 GIC OPEN ENROLLMENT UNDERWAY Consider Joining The State Retiree Dental Plan hile open enrollment Retirees and the Group Insurance FY 2021,” reports Association is underway, state Commission, the number of sub- Legislative Liaison Nancy McGovern Wand local retirees, scribers has risen year after year. who attended the GIC’s February insured by the Group Insurance Amazingly, there are over 39,000 27 meeting. “During that meet- Commission, may want to consider state and local enrollees partici- ing, the GIC approved premium enrolling in the State Retiree Dental pating in the plan and this number rates for the FY 21dental plans. The Plan. There’s still time to do so. continues to grow. This is a true tes- Commissioners announced that the (Please note that GIC local retirees tament to the value of the plan as it plan premiums, which are admin- can enroll only if their city, town or is strictly voluntary participation and istered by MetLife, will decrease by district allows them.) retiree-pay-all. 1.3% for FY21. Since its inception in 2002, “Not only have we’ve seen the State Retiree Dental Plan – the steady growth in retiree partici- product of a joint effort by Mass pation, we have good news for CONTINUED ON PAGE 19 u

not qualify for Medicare because in most cases retirees do pay their Medical they did not earn the minimum 40 own Medicare Part B premium. quarters under the federal system. “Blue Cross/Blue Shield Inflation In Massachusetts, public work- launched this program more than CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 u ers hired prior to April 1, 1986 two years ago. So far, it has been did not pay into Medicare (those a great success for both retir- hired on or after 4/1/86 do pay into ees and municipal governments their fragile financial situation. Medicare). And no public employ- alike. This is due to the fact that “No question, rising health ees anywhere in MA have ever under Medicare, the federal gov- care costs are unsustainable. paid into Social Security. ernment covers a large portion of That’s why we’ll continue to work Non-Medicare retirees are a retiree’s health care costs. And enrolled within the same health with the GIC, insurers, providers under Medicare, out-of-pocket insurance plans as are active and other interested parties, on costs tend to be a lot less than employees and pay the same out- addressing this core issue and under non-Medicare plans,” says of-pocket costs associated with hopefully providing needed relief Association General Counsel Bill those insurance plans. While pre- to all retirees and their families.” Rehrey. “At our request, the GIC is scription drug copayments are standardized across all GIC plans, now looking at adopting this same AFFORDABILITY IS GROWING CONCERN the copayments for doctor visits, policy at the state level. A lot of tests and other medical care are details need to be ironed out and As mentioned above, ensur- higher under the non-Medicare transitioning 10,000 retirees into ing that health insurance bene- plans. Non-Medicare retirees also Medicare is not something that can fits remain affordable is a major face a $500 annual deductible. or should be done overnight. But concern of Mass Retirees offi- At the local level a growing our hope is that a change can be cials. While monthly premiums number of municipalities have in place for FY22, which begins on remain relatively modest, enroll- addressed this disparity in cost July 1, 2021. ees witnessed a steady rise in by implementing a Medicare “The goal is to significantly out-of-pocket costs over the past “Buy-In” program, whereby cities reduce costs for retirees, while decade. This is particularly true for and towns purchase Medicare on maintaining high quality benefits. non-Medicare plans. behalf of local retirees. (see related We’ll know more as the GIC’s work A large number of GIC enroll- article p. 4) Under this program the continues and will report back to ees – as many as 10,000 retirees municipality must cover the cost members in future editions of The over the age of 65 – are not eligi- of any penalties and addition fees Voice.” ble for Medicare. These retirees do on behalf of the retiree. However,

18 May 2020

FY2021 STATE RETIREE DENTAL PLAN RATES MetLife Retiree Dental Plan FY 2020 Rate FY 2021 Rate FY 2021 Dollar Decrease % Difference Individual $30.21 $29.82 ($0.39) -1.3% Family $72.77 $71.82 ($0.95) -1.3%

McGovern continues, “In a year development.“ retirees can enroll in the plan during where we’re seeing most health Studies have shown that oral open enrollment, which began April insurance premiums increase, we’re health, including regular dental vis- 6, 2020, and runs through June 1, pleased to report a reduction, albeit its, has an impact on our overall 2020. health. Having access to an afford- To make a decision, we under- small, for a plan that provides critical able dental plan such as the one stand that you will need more infor- coverage for important health ser- offered by the GIC provides another mation about the plan’s coverage vices. That’s particularly so for a plan layer of health coverage for retirees. and benefits. For more details, call in which Mass Retirees has played The rates listed above will 866-292-9990 or visit www.metlife. such a pivotal role in its creation and take effect on July 1, 2020. Eligible com/gic.

DECEASED MEMBERS The following members of our Association have recently passed away. We extend our deepest sympathy to their families.

ADAMS, HELEN C. – Peabody, MA CHASE, DORIS M. – Longmeadow, MA GARRY, BERNICE A. – Auburn, MA (Survivor, Lexington Teacher) (East Longmeadow Teacher) (State) AHO, HAZEL M. – Salem, MA CHIASSON, JOHN M. – Waltham, MA GENES, ANDREW N. – Hull, MA (Haverhill Teacher) (Waltham D.P.W.) (UMass Boston) ALLISON, GEORGE W. – Haverhill, MA COFFEY, JOHN P. – Ipswich, MA GOMES, CLARA M. – Dalton, MA (Haverhill School Department) (Metropolitan District Commission) (Pittsfield School Department) ALVES, DAN J. – Wareham, MA COMEAU, BELLA T. – Acushnet, MA GONSALVES, RONALD – New Bedford, MA (Department of Corrections) (Southeastern Mass. University) (Department of Corrections) AVILA, JEAN M. – Onset, MA CORKERY, JAMES J. – Everett, MA GORDON, NANCY K. – Asheville, NC (State Department of Mental Health) (Everett Housing Authority) (Duxbury Teacher) AZNAVOORIAN, CHARLES D. – Medford, MA COZZA, JOSEPH A. – Mashpee, MA GRANGER, ANNE M. – Medford, MA (State Highway Safety Department) (Cambridge Police Department) (State Department of Employment & Training) BADDOUR, SHAE A. – Seabrook, NH CRIBBEN, RITA M. – Brockton, MA GURRY, JOANNE M. – Arlington, MA (Methuen Police Department) (Brockton School Department) (Arlington School Department) BALDAIA, MARY JANE – Fall River, MA CURADOSSI, ANALDO N. – Norwell, MA HASKINS, JOHN – Dorchester, MA (Fall River Public Library) (Boston Police Department) (Boston Transportation Department) BARRY, JOHN L. – Brockton, MA CURRY, JUDY P. – Salem, MA HASTINGS, PARKER W. – North Yarmouth, ME (State Police) (State Department of Mental Health) (State Department of Employment & Training) BARTHOLOMEW, DOROTHY B. – Stuart, FL D’AURIA, ROBERT A. – Mashpee, MA HULL, RICHARD E. – Port Charlotte, FL (Leominster Teacher) (Bedford Police Department) (Braintree Firefighter) BASHAW, NORMAN E. – Clinton, MA DELLAPENNA, ROBERT J. – Pembroke Pines, FL JASAK, EDWARD J. – Thorndike, MA (State Div of Capital Planning & Management) (Mass. Air National Guard) (Palmer Police Department) BELCULFINE, JOSEPH J. – Shrewsbury, MA DePROFIO, ALONZO W. – Westboro, MA JOHNSON, LORAIN F. – Auburn, MA (Worcester D.P.W.) (Medford School Department) (Survivor, Auburn Police Department) BENNETT, VELMA – Dorchester, MA DiFAZIO, PATRICIA L. – Essex, MA JONES, CLARENCE J. – Roxbury, MA (Boston Teacher) (Danvers State Hospital) (Boston Redevelopment Authority) BLACKMAN, RICHARD – Hudson, MA DIMIMO, VIRGINIA R. – Epsom, NH JONES, EMILY M. – Warwick, MA (Hudson Light & Power) (Survivor, City of Boston) (Baldwin/Templeton Teacher) BRODERICK, SANDRA J. – Turners Falls, MA DODGE, HARRY W. JR. – North Conway, NH KEEFE, JUNE L. – Lowell, MA (Montague School Department) (State Quartermaster) (UMass Lowell) BROOKS, MARIE A. – Alexandria, VA DORDONI, JOHN F. – Pisgah Forest, NC KILEY, JOSEPH T. – Leesburg, FL (Lawrence Teacher) (State, Department of Public Works) (Waltham Teacher) BROWN, STEPHEN D. – Worcester, MA ELDER, JOANN M. – Bedford, MA KILGALLEN, WALTER J. – Pine Knoll Shores, NC (Worcester State Hospital) (Bedford Teacher) (Boston Housing Authority) BRUTNELL, ROSEMARIE C. – West Dennis, MA FAHERTY, ROSALIE A. – Woburn, MA KILLIAN, WAYNE L. – Groveland, MA (Mass. Commission of Rehabilitation) (Woburn School Department) (Masconomet Regional District Teacher) BULLAN, JANINA C. – Holden, MA FALLON, JAMES D. –Billerica, MA KNIGHTLY, CARL W. – Bangor, ME (Belchertown State School) (Middlesex County Sheriff’s Department) (Lawrence Teacher) BULLOCK, EDWARD K. – Ponte Vedra Beach, FL FENG, YEN-TSAI – Lexington, MA KORTE, ROBERT E. – West Stockbridge, MA (Survivor, Beverly Teacher) (Boston Public Library) (State D.P.W.) BUTLER, EDITH – Foxborough, MA FLAMMIA, ANTHONY J. – Chester, NH KOVE, ROBERT T. – Sandy Spring, MD (Department of Corrections) (Everett Police Department) (North Adams Teacher) CAMARA, ANTHONY –Taunton, MA FLIPPIN, RICHARD J. – Norton, MA KOWAL, JANE – Pawtucket, RI (Paul A. Dever State School) (Boston Veteran’s Services) (Northampton State Hospital) CARNEY, ROBERT F. – Hanson, MA FLOYD, ANN M. – Worcester, MA LaFORCE, WARREN H. – Winchendon, MA (Boston Police Department) (Chelsea Teacher) (Winchendon School Department) CARTER, ROBERT W. – Georgetown, MA FLYNN, LAWRENCE J. – Wilmington, MA LAMOUREAUX, GARY – Pittsfield, MA (Mass Highway Department) (Medford Teacher) (Berkshire Community College) CATTERALL, JOHN – West Palm Beach, FL FORBES, HELEN M. – South Easton, MA LANDRY, JOANNE M. – Hingham, MA (Greater New Bedford Reg Voc Tech Teacher) (M.D.C.) (Massasoit Community College) CHARTOR, JANE A. – Malden, MA FULLER, ANNE T. – Woburn, MA LEO, JOHN – Everett, MA (State Department of Revenue) (Survivor, Lexington Teacher) (Everett Recreation Department) Continued on back page 19 RETIRED STATE COUNTY AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES NONPROFIT ORG. ASSOCIATION OF MASSACHUSETTS U.S. POSTAGE 11 BEACON STREET • BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS • 02108-3024 PAID BOSTON, MASS. FRANK VALERI, President PERMIT 54933 SHAWN DUHAMEL, Chief Executive Officer JUDITH LANGONE, Secretary GERALD COUGHLIN, Treasurer THOMAS BONARRIGO, Legislative Chairman PAUL SHANLEY, Executive V. Pres. RALPH WHITE, V. Pres., At Large TIM HANNIGAN, V. Pres., Berkshire District KARL SCHMAELZLE, V. Pres., Western District ED PIETREWICZ, V. Pres., Central District DENIS DEVINE, V. Pres., Middlesex District JOE DiFRANCO, SR. V. Pres., Northern District BILL FLIPPIN, V. Pres., Eastern District STEVE RIVARD, V. Pres., Southeastern District ROBERT POWILATIS, V. Pres., Plymouth Cape/Islands JOAN SCHLOSS, Executive Board CHERYL STILLMAN, Executive Board DAN TURCO, Executive Board ANNE WASS, Executive Board WILLIAM G. REHREY, Legal Counsel NANCY McGOVERN, Legislative Liaison VISIT OUR ASSOCIATION’S WEB SITE: www.massretirees.com God Bless America.

MAY 2020

DECEASED MEMBERS (continued)

LUCEY, PATRICIA – Orange, CT MOREHEAD, ETHEL H. – High Point, NC ROSSI, E. EDWARD – Melrose, MA (Survivor, Brockton Mayor) (Monson State School) (State Board of Regents) LYNG, PAUINE GORMAN – Wellesley, MA MUIR, RONALD – Saugus, MA RULE, BARBARA W. – Hudson, MA (Norwood School Department) (Saugus School Department) (Department of Mental Health) McCARTHY, LOIS A. – Andover, MA NOONAN, LAWRENCE B. – West Bridgewater, MA ST. PIERRE, LEODORE E. – Berkley, MA (Melrose Teacher) (Brockton Firefighter) (Swansea Police Department) McCOY, ETHEL M. – Groton, MA O’CONNOR, MARY T. – Shrewsbury, MA SCHUBACH, KATHRYN E. – Springfield, MA (Mass Hospital School) (UMass Medical Center) (State Department of Transitional Assistance) McFADDEN, MICHAEL – Lowell, MA OLIVETO, JOSEPH J. – Harwich, MA SEEKAMP, JOHN C. – Marlboro, MA (State Department of Public Health) (Newton Firefighter) (Mass. Bay Community College) McLEAN, MARILYN T. – Jamaica Plain, MA O’NEIL, PHILIP J. – North Quincy, MA SHEEHAN, PAULA K. – Hudson, MA (Boston Public Library) (Hanover Teacher) (Framingham Transportation Department) McLOUGHLIN, DOROTHY F. – Holden, MA ORCUTT, JOHN – Port Charlotte, FL SILVA, JOSEPH P. – New Bedford, MA (Worcester Teacher) (Hingham Police Department) (New Bedford Firefighter) McMORROW, ELIZABETH F. – Methuen, MA OSBORNE, WESLEY H. JR. – Norwell, MA SMITH, BERNARD A. – Salem, NH (Lawrence Teacher) (Town of Norwell) (Stoneham Teacher) MACDONALD, BARBARA –Nazareth, KY PALLADINO, FRANCIS L. – Marshfield, MA SMITH, LORRAINE L. – Concord, MA (Boston School Department) (State Department of Revenue) (State, Mass. Rehab Commission) MACGREGOR, MALCOLM S –Acton, MA PELLISSIER, JOSEPH E. – Ware, MA SPINNEY, THELMA C. – Port St. Lucie, FL (Acton Firefighter) (State Police) (State Department of Mental Health) MANNING, FRANCIS J. – North Easton, MA PERAMBA, EDWARD J. – Greenfield, MA STOCKTON, BARBARA V. – Swansea, MA (Boston School Department) (Greenfield Police Department) (Mass. Commission for the Blind) MARCHAND, ROSALIND A. – Leland, NC PETRIGNO, FREDERICK R. – Boston, MA TAREILA, GERALD E. – Tewksbury, MA (State, Committee for Public Counsel Services) (State House Court Officer) (Tewksbury Hospital) MARGESON, JOANNE R. – Georgetown, MA PITTA, ROBERT – New Bedford, MA TIERNEY, JAMES F. – Plymouth, MA (Georgetown School Department) (New Bedford Firefighter) (State Department of Youth Services) MATERAZZO, THOMAS B. – West Roxbury, MA POPE, BRADFORD E. – Hull, MA TIERNEY, ROSEMARY S. – Mattapoisett, MA (Boston Veterans Services) (Hull Firefighter) (New Bedford Mayor) MEDEIROS, JOSEPH – Fall River, MA RIMKUS, VICTOR M. – Hudson, MA TRAINOR, JOHN J. – Roslindale, MA (Fall River Firefighter) (Hudson Teacher) (Boston Firefighter) MESSIER, JACQUELINE M. – Wheelwright, MA ROBINSON, ARTHUR E. – Hudson, NH TREMBLAY, LEO E. – West Roxbury, MA (Ware Teacher) (State Police) (Boston Police Department) METTERVILLE, MAUREEN A. – Jefferson, MA RODRIQUES, JOAQUIM – New Bedford, MA VALOIS, LILLIAN – Westfield, MA (Worcester Probate & Family Court) (New Bedford Firefighter) (Department of Mental Health) MONGEAU, RICHARD R. – East Falmouth, MA ROONEY,JUNE E. – Foxboro, MA WHITE, RUTH M. – Walpole, MA (Mass. Army National Guard) (Wellesley Fire Department) (Walpole Teacher) MORAN, DAVID W. – Naples, FL ROSS, VIRGINIA M. – Marshfield, MA WILMARTH, GRETCHEN – Salem, NH (State Police) (Marshfield Teacher) (Georgetown Police Department)