With unexpected budget windfall, Coughlin will consider restoring public worker benefits

Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin will take another look at public employee health benefits opening the door to restoring $100 million that were cut in a state budget approved yesterday.

“Last week, we learned the State received $200 million in additional unanticipated revenue. And although I firmly believe New Jersey’s public worker health plans need significant reforms to control costs, the funds allow us the opportunity to find ways to reduce those costs, while treating workers fairly,” Coughlin said.

Coughlin announced that the Assembly will hold hearings this month and “monitor any potential premium increases and their impact on public plans.”

“We remain committed to working with the workers, counties and municipalities to provide high-quality, affordable health care, and we believe there are other options to identify state savings,” he said.

Gov. Phil Murphy sought a $100 million reduction after facing massive increases in insurance premiums.   That would have affected roughly 293,000 public employees and retirees who were facing increases of over 25%.

The move created election-year friction between Democrats and the influential Communications Workers of America union.