Marshall County approves higher employee contributions, offers $50 wellness discount

Marshall County commissioners on May 20 approved a resolution that raises the employee share of health insurance to $50 per month for individual coverage and $175 per month for family coverage, effective Jan. 1, 2027, and offers a $50 monthly discount to employees who complete the county’s annual wellness screening by July 31.

County staff explained the change responds to requirements and discounts tied to the local government health insurance plan, which offers a reduced premium only if 80% of covered employees complete the screening. A staff member told commissioners the screening can be completed through on‑site vendors, pharmacies or a physician and participation is voluntary; staff emphasized the county does not receive individual health records and screenings are confidential.

During discussion, a commissioner objected to characterizing the change as a “penalty,” saying employees retain a choice. A county official explained the measure is intended to preserve the plan’s preferred rate and avoid a larger permanent premium increase that would otherwise fall to taxpayers. Staff presented illustrative plan figures, including monthly premium levels discussed in the meeting (transcribed as roughly $1,626 for family coverage and $667 for individual coverage), and warned that failing to meet the 80% participation threshold could increase the county’s annual insurance cost substantially.

Commissioners debated whether the personnel board should formally weigh in; staff advised the commission that the matter is a budgetary decision the commission may enact. The resolution passed in a recorded vote with commissioners present voting in favor.

Next steps: county staff will distribute the resolution to employees and provide details about screening options and deadlines so employees can access the $50 monthly discount if they complete the screening by July 31.