CSEA retirees file suit to stop new contract insurance change (Updated)

Civil Service Employee Association retirees today were in court attempting to stop a change in health insurance included in a new union contract scheduled to take effect Jan.1.

The "Nassau Retirees Legal Fund" and eight other CSEA employees argue in a class action lawsuit filed today against Nassau and County Executive Bruce Blakeman in Nassau Supreme Court that they face  " imminent and irreparable medical, emotional, and financial harm because the County intends to deprive them of promised health benefits in 2024."

The new contract negotiated between the union and Republican County Executive Bruce Blakeman and ratified by members in August changes the health insurance from New York's Empire plan -- which provides platinum coverage -- to the New York Excelsior plan.

The Excelsior plan is more costly for union members but less expensive for the county. 

Update:  The state, meanwhile, has increased rates for the Excelsior plan -- in come cases by more than 40 percent-- which will dramatically cut any county savings. The higher rates, however, could double to costs or more for retirees.

Current union members get upfront cash stipends to pay the higher costs but retirees received no similar compensation.

It was expected then, that retirees would challenge the agreement.

Here is at least part of the lawsuit, which had yet to even get an index number today: (Note. The suit has been "returned for correction" by the clerk but it is expected to be refiled shortly.)

                                                                                 












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