Weirton Approves 2026 Municipal Employee Insurance with Moderate Premium Increases

The city of Weirton has confirmed that its municipal employees will maintain their current health, vision, dental, and life insurance coverage types for 2026, albeit with increased premiums. The city council unanimously approved resolutions to continue coverage through established providers, including Highmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield for health and dental, Vision Benefits of America for vision, and American United Life Insurance Co. for life insurance. Amid a challenging market with some insurers proposing rate hikes above 50% or declining to submit bids, Weirton selected Highmark after negotiating a more moderate increase of 17.8%, reflecting broader trends in municipal insurance markets facing inflationary pressures and provider consolidation. Under the new coverage, monthly premiums for single employee health plans will rise to $1,111.46, combining Highmark's base and a supplemental Gap plan. Family and dependent coverage options similarly reflect increased rates but remain comprehensive. Notably, employees are not required to contribute toward health, vision, or life insurance premiums, though dental coverage will see a 10% increase with employees paying half the premium cost. This premium structure highlights municipal efforts to balance affordability for employees with the fiscal realities of rising healthcare costs. The life insurance benefits include $50,000 coverage for full-time employees, with reduced coverage of $32,500 applied after age 65, offered at no cost to employees. The overall insurance package is effective from January 1, 2026, ensuring continuity in employee benefits. Weirton's approach underscores the prevailing challenges in public sector insurance procurement, where limited carrier options and escalating claims costs necessitate strategic negotiations to manage budget impacts. This resolution provides a case study of how municipalities are navigating the complex landscape of employer-sponsored insurance against a backdrop of industry-wide rate inflation and limited insurer competition. It illustrates key compliance considerations and cost management strategies relevant to public employers across the U.S., particularly in the context of balancing comprehensive coverage with sustainable premium levels. Highmark's role as a primary insurer reflects its market position and ongoing engagement in public sector health coverage.