2021-04-13-minutes-hr-study-session

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COMMISSIONERS’ MINUTES KITTITAS COUNTY, WASHINGTON WEBEX REGULAR MEETING HR STUDY SESSION the changes also define the roles of HR and Department Heads/Elected Official in the administration of the sick leave policy. Commissioner Osiadacz commented that she appreciated the collaboration and work of the subcommittee. The Board found the proposed changes acceptable; Director Young will prepare a resolution to adopt the changes at the next HR Study Session. HR UPDATES HR Director Young summarized several items she would like to update the Management Team on at their next meeting, but wanted the Board to be aware of first. She provided the Board with a brief overview of the new COBRA subsidy requirements in the American Rescue Plan Act which requires the County to pay the COBRA premiums for a period of six months, April 1, 2021 to September 30, 2021, for employees who were involuntarily terminated from County employment or suffered a reduction in hours, and were still within their COBRA eligibility window, which is typically 18-months. She reported that there are some exclusions to eligibility, and that she is working with Alliant, the County’s benefits broker, and CMS, the County’s COBRA administrator, to compile a list of potentially eligible former employees and will keep the Board updated. Director Young also provided the Board with a brief overview of the Washington Long Term Services and Support Act. She summarized that the program was adopted by the state in 2019 and employees will start paying into the program in 2022. Employees may have the opportunity to opt out of the program if they have a private policy. Director Young is working with Alliant to create and disseminate communication to all County employees. Finally, Director Young provided the Board with a brief update on the County’s benefit claims experience. She stated that the UHC is currently paying more in claims that we are collecting in premiums, which may result in significant rate increases for 2022. Commissioner Wright inquired if the increase in claims was COVID-related. Director Young answered that the information received is very limited due to patient privacy requirements, so it is unclear what types of claims are driving the increase in utilization. She said that when the plan is reviewed by the underwriters for renewal they will likely take into consideration isolated critical medical events compared to ongoing high-cost chronic conditions. Director Young will keep the Board informed as more information becomes available. OTHER BUSINESS None.