(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) — The El Paso County Health Plan Trust Board has reversed an earlier decision to charge retirees with over 20 years of service for health care benefits.
El Paso County originally planned to begin charging county retirees with more than 20 years of service 5% of the monthly premium cost, which the county quoted to be $56.08 per month. By 2027, the county expected this group to match the active employee contribution, which the 2026 quote would be exactly double at $112.16. Before this decision, El Paso County retirees who served more than 20 years only paid if they added a spouse or children to their medical benefits plan.
In an official response, the county explained, “Like many employers nationwide, the County has faced rising healthcare costs… We strive to enhance our plans annually, while balancing affordability, access, and our responsibility to be good stewards of tax revenue received from the taxpayers of El Paso County. These efforts help ensure that our employees and retirees continue to receive meaningful benefits that meet their needs. To maintain the integrity and long-term sustainability of the plan, adjustments were necessary, and these changes were made to help preserve access to retiree medical coverage well into the future.”
According to El Paso County, this plan would have saved an estimated $200,000 in 2026 and $400,000 in 2027.
The Health Plan Trust Board reversed that decision on Tuesday, Oct. 29, restoring the previous benefits agreement.
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the El Paso County Health Plan Trust Board for today’s decision to reaffirm healthcare coverage (at no cost)for our retirees. This outcome restores faith in a promise made to those who have spent decades protecting and serving this community with honor. I especially want to thank Administrator Waters for his recommendation to reconsider this issue. The Board’s willingness to listen reflects a deep understanding of the human impact behind every policy decision. To our employees and retirees—your voices were heard. This decision acknowledges your years of service, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to the people of El Paso County. It reinforces what I have always believed: a promise made should be a promise kept. Today’s action sends a strong message of integrity, compassion, and respect for public service. On behalf of the men and women of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, I thank the Board for doing what is right and for standing with those who have stood watch over this community.”
– El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal
