U.S. Ruling Backs Benefit Cut at 65 in Retiree Plans

[cyclezealot]

By ROBERT PEAR
WASHINGTON — The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission said Wednesday that employers could reduce or eliminate health benefits for retirees when they turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare.

The policy, set forth in a new regulation, allows employers to establish two classes of retirees, with more comprehensive benefits for those under 65 and more limited benefits — or none at all — for those older.

More than 10 million retirees rely on employer-sponsored health plans as a primary source of coverage or as a supplement to Medicare, and Naomi C. Earp, the commission’s chairwoman, said, “This rule will help employers continue to voluntarily provide and maintain these critically important health benefits.”

Premiums for employer-sponsored health insurance rose an average of 6.1 percent this year and have increased 78 percent since 2001, according to surveys by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Because of the rising cost of health care and the increased life expectancy of workers, the commission said, many employers refuse to provide retiree health benefits or even to negotiate on the issue.

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/27/washington/27retire.html?hp=&pagewanted=print

[izzie]

1. Guess we are going to have to do what other modern societies do

Health care for all under one plan. I am sure it is coming. The big guys just have to clean out our pocket books a little more. It is a race who gets the last cent. Oil or medical!!!!!

[indepat]

2. Sadly, those who are not cynical over what is in store for Amurikans surely must be wholly ignorant,

blind, or brain-dead.

[izzie]

4. I think it is just a real believe in the market system

Some people just believe that the market system always works and what is good for capitalist is always what is good for every one. I feel we have proof capitalism works well BUT only with over sight to protect the people.Be sides that a good deal of the health system is paid for by general tax on the people but going to only the rich. That is a more of less simple way of thinking about it but a lot of truth in it. Also I think if the general pop. is cared for it makes a better country. I come from a real GOP family and 'it takes a village' to make a society was drilled into my brain early and often. Right back to one has to pay tax for the road every one needs.

[Toots]

3. This is the first step

People need to get away from employers paying for their health care. The government should be responsible for the Health and Welfare of the Nation. I am for this. Why should employers be strapped with such a burdon? If we want National Health Care then we should all get behind this first step..