The SEANC View

Following the State Health Plan Board of Trustees' decision last week to increase premiums for most state employees and retirees, SEANC members have reached out with many questions. State Health Plan Executive Administrator Thomas Friedman revisited The SEANC View Podcast this week to answer them. 

In an extended interview following up on his appearance last month, Friedman addressed everything from the fairness of the new tiered structure of the premiums based on salary to the new partnership with Lantern Care to cut the cost of some surgeries and procedures to the need to rein in overcharging by hospitals.

The increases will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026. The plan consists of a tiered structure for the increases, with higher-paid employees paying more monthly than lower-paid employees. For some, the increase will be as low as $15 per month, while those making over $90,000 could see their premiums triple. 

The State Health Plan Board of Trustees voted today to increase premiums for most state employees and retirees for the first time in eight years. 

The increases will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026. The plan consists of a tiered structure for the increases, with higher-paid employees paying more monthly than lower-paid employees. For some, the increase will be as low as $15 per month, while those making over $90,000 could see their premiums triple. 

This week's episode of The SEANC View Podcast, recorded before the meeting, focuses on the State Health Plan increases. We also discuss the state budget, Gen Z employees, and more.

Welcome to the SEANC View podcast, where host Jonathan Owens, Ardis Watkins, and Sam Cline discuss the pressing issues facing state employees and public services. Focusing on the recent mini budget, they discuss the fiscal challenges and political dynamics affecting funding for state employees and retirees.

The podcast also highlights State Auditor Dave Bullock's recent audit of the DMV. The audit reveals long-standing staffing and salary challenges and suggests potential structural changes for the DMV. The discussion extends to broader issues such as state workforce retention and the impact of political decisions on public service delivery.

The episode wraps up with a light-hearted Gen Z segment exploring workplace trends and a nostalgic conversation about the hosts' favorite teachers. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between policy, education, and workforce dynamics, all set against the backdrop of North Carolina's political and social landscape.

In this episode of the SEANC View podcast, Samantha Cline takes the helm as host, joined by Executive Director Ardis Watkins, Government Relations Director Suzanne Beasley, and special guest SEANC Public Schools Liaison Brad Langhans. The team dives into the intricacies of school funding and the legislative sessions affecting all state employees.

We highlight the absence of across-the-board pay increases for state employees and address the mini-budget's impact. Brad Langhans shares insights on the role of SEANC in public schools, focusing on advocacy and support for teachers and classified staff.

The conversation covers various topics, from salary structures and local government pay plans to working in schools and the emotional and community aspects. The team emphasizes the importance of advocacy and having a voice in the legislative process, encouraging school employees to engage with representatives.

This episode provides a comprehensive look at the current state of public education funding, employee concerns, and the critical advocacy work being done to support those educating future generations.

In this special Gen Z episode of the SEANC View podcast, Samantha Cline and Jamison Rhodes sit down with Ramona Williams, a dedicated probation and parole officer, who shares her journey from aspiring lawyer to her current role, illustrating the challenges and rewards of public service.

Discover the motivations driving Ramona's career choice, the obstacles she faced entering the field, and how her experiences have shaped her perspective on criminal justice. Ramona offers a unique lens on societal issues, highlighting the importance of understanding mental health and substance use in her role. Gain insights into the discretion and compassion required in her daily interactions, and the complexities of balancing public safety with supporting those on a path to redemption.

Delve deep into the systemic challenges, including financial constraints and the necessity for legislative awareness of the on-ground realities faced by officers. Ramona shares personal success stories that bring hope, emphasizing the impact of a supportive community and second chances.

Cuts to federal funding in the recently passed "Big Beautiful Bill" will likely force the state legislature to make tough choices in this year's state budget. It may also hasten their return to Raleigh sooner than expected to reach a compromise.

In this week's episode of The SEANC View Podcast, we discuss what the cuts may mean for state employees and retirees. We also discuss retiree cost-of-living adjustments, given the recent news that the pension system is seeing record gains in 2025, and how state employees are helping the state recover from Tropical Storm Chantal's flooding.

This week's episode of The SEANC View Podcast discusses what the gains mean for state retirees, including the prospects of a cost-of-living adjustment in the future.

We also look at what North Carolina's ranking as the "Top State for Business" by CNBC means for state employees and retirees. We also discuss a push to get legislators to settle on a budget, as the loss of federal funding threatens some state services. 

This week, the SEANC team welcomes special guest N.C. Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey for a discussion on the state budget, proposed job cuts at his office, and other topics.

Commissioner Causey shares insights into the role of the Department of Insurance and highlights the importance of public safety during the summer, especially concerning fireworks and travel.

We also discuss the impact of recent federal legislation on the state budget and the modernization of the hiring practices for prospective state employees.

This week, we are joined by State Health Plan Executive Administrator Thomas Friedman for an in-depth look at the challenges facing the Plan and its 750,000-plus members.

We discuss the ongoing negotiations with CVS Caremark and the expected premium increases for next year.  Also, we touch on the pressing issues of high healthcare costs and the need for transparency, and Friedman shares the plan's strategies to make healthcare more affordable for state employees and retirees.

In this episode of the SEANC View podcast, we discuss the ongoing state budget negotiations and the critical issues facing state employees, including delayed raises and potential mini budgets. We also discuss changes to the SHRA Protections bill.

We also explore the financial pressures on the University of North Carolina system, detailing administrative changes and personnel challenges within UNC-Chapel Hill.

Finally, we take a light-hearted turn, sharing stories from the NC Zoo, including a special feature on Annie, the adorable bison with allergies, and fond memories of visiting the zoo.