Reform New Jersey's State Health Benefits Plans for Municipal and School Employees
The Issue
The cost of healthcare under New Jersey's State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) and School Employees' Health Benefits Program (SEHBP) has reached a crisis point. Year after year, municipalities and school districts are facing double-digit premium increases that are consuming local budgets and placing an enormous burden on taxpayers.

These escalating costs are forcing local governments and school districts to divert funding away from essential services, public safety, infrastructure, educational programs, and student support services. At the same time, rising healthcare expenses contribute directly to higher property taxes for residents.

Mayor Derek Armstead is calling on New Jersey lawmakers to enact comprehensive reforms to stabilize and strengthen these state-run health benefit plans before the financial situation becomes unsustainable.

Recent reports from the State Treasurer have warned that both the SHBP and SEHBP face significant long-term financial challenges. Without meaningful reform, costs will continue to rise at an alarming rate, threatening the stability of these programs and the communities that depend on them.

Why This Matters
Municipal workers, teachers, police officers, firefighters, educational support professionals, and other public servants rely on these plans for quality healthcare coverage. They deserve affordable, sustainable benefits that protect their health and financial security.

Likewise, taxpayers deserve responsible stewardship of public funds. Every dollar spent on unchecked healthcare cost increases is a dollar that cannot be invested in classrooms, public safety, road improvements, recreation programs, and other critical community services.

We Call on State Leaders To:
Conduct a comprehensive review and reform of the SHBP and SEHBP.
Increase transparency and accountability in healthcare plan management and spending.
Work collaboratively with municipalities, school districts, labor organizations, and taxpayers to develop sustainable solutions.
Implement cost-saving measures that maintain high-quality healthcare coverage for employees and their families.
Create long-term financial safeguards that protect taxpayers while ensuring the viability of these plans.

Take Action
New Jersey's municipal governments, school districts, employees, and taxpayers cannot continue to absorb unsustainable healthcare cost increases. The time for action is now.

By signing this petition, you support meaningful reform that will protect public employees, preserve essential local services, reduce pressure on property taxes, and ensure the long-term sustainability of New Jersey's health benefits programs.

Together, we can create a healthcare system that is fair, affordable, transparent, and sustainable for everyone.

Mayor Armstead can be reached at mayorarmstead@gmail.com