Message From the Executive Director Carl Roark
September Retirees Newsletter
Dear Retiree,
Through a new partnership between the Highway Patrol Retirement System (HPRS) and Life Line Screening, members now have access to discounted preventive health screenings designed to help identify potential health risks before symptoms appear. The screening cost is paid by the member but is eligible for reimbursement from an HRA.
These screenings can provide valuable information about your vascular health and help you take a proactive approach to your long-term wellness. We encourage you to take advantage of this exclusive member benefit and learn more about the screening options available through Life Line Screening. For additional details and scheduling information, please visit https://www.lifelinescreening.com/partner/shprs.
Best regards,
Carl
FROM THE July HPRS NEWSLETTER - Each year, the board must decide whether to grant a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for the upcoming year, to those members that qualify and, if so, at what amount. This decision is based on several factors, including the latest actuarial valuation report, input from an actuarial consultant, and a comprehensive funding policy. For 2027, the board approved 2.68% COLA.
The Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) allowance was analyzed closely for the ability to increase it for 2027. The board took into consideration the rising costs of health care, as well as the solvency period of the Health Care Fund based on the most recent valuation. The decision was made to increase the HRA allowance for both the Pre-Medicare HRA and the Medicare HRA. For Medicare-eligible retirees enrolled in coverage through Via Benefits, the Medicare HRA will increase from $225 to $255 (13.33%) per month. The Pre-Medicare HRA allowance will be increased by 12.5%. By increasing the base from $800 to $900 (12.5%), everyone receiving a Pre-Medicare HRA allowance will experience a 12.5% increase. The updated chart will be posted to our website soon.