Most state workers’ health insurance premiums will increase in 2026 following approval of the new rates by the California Public Employees Retirement System’s Board of Administration on Tuesday. Several of the most popular plans will see double digit hikes next year.
Basic HMO premium plans will increase an average of 6.5% next year, which CalPERS officials approved during a board meeting in Monterey. For most plans, the 2026 premium increases will be smaller than the price hikes enrollees faced earlier this year. Basic HMO plans increased by 8.7% in 2025.
Basic PPO premiums will increase by an average of 12% — a steeper increase than last year’s 9.8%. The state’s two PPO plans, Gold and Platinum, will increase by 11% and 13%, respectively. Nearly 240,000 public employees and their beneficiaries are currently enrolled in those plans…