CalPERS Urges Congress To Step Up Health Care Reform Efforts
On Tuesday, CalPERS officials sent a letter urging California's congressional delegation to move forward on efforts to overhaul the nation's health care system, the Sacramento Bee reports.
Although the pension fund has not issued a formal position on the proposed public plan option, officials wrote, "Without reform this year, we will not be able to sustain our health care system."
CalPERS also sent lobbyists and other officials to Washington, D.C., to pressure U.S. lawmakers on health reform.
Big Buyer
CalPERS provides health benefits for more than 1.3 million public workers, retirees and their families. It is the largest pension fund in the country.
This year, CalPERS is expected to spend $5.7 billion on health benefits for its members.
Officials say they are stepping up efforts to curb the fund's rising health care costs.
Since 2003, insurance premiums for CalPERS' members have increased by 60% (Calvan, Sacramento Bee, 8/19).
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