Open Enrollment for Gov't Health Plans Begins August 11, Includes Premium Hikes and Coverage Changes

Open Enrollment for government health plans runs August 11–September 12, with new changes including premium hikes, higher deductibles, coverage limits, and a new HRA. Employees and retirees are urged to attend in-person or virtual sessions for guidance.

  • Staff Consortium
  • August 06, 2025
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The Division of Personnel has announced that the 2025 Open Enrollment period for government health insurance plans will begin on Monday, August 11, 2025, and run through Friday, September 12, 2025. During this time, all active government employees and retirees may enroll in or make changes to their health insurance, life insurance, and beneficiary information.

This year’s Open Enrollment comes with several key changes to group health plans, including a 9% increase in premium rates, the elimination of out-of-network coverage, and the introduction of new requirements for prior authorization for GLP-1 medications, which include widely-used drugs for diabetes management and weight loss.

A new Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) will also be implemented to offer additional financial support for qualifying out-of-pocket medical expenses. In addition, higher deductibles are being introduced, which may increase upfront costs for members before their insurance coverage takes effect.

The Division of Personnel is strongly encouraging all active employees and retirees to attend one of the in-person or virtual Open Enrollment forums to understand these changes, which take effect on October 1, 2025. Representatives from Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and The Standard will be present at each session to provide accurate and up-to-date information.

To support participation, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has authorized two hours of administrative leave for central government employees who attend a session. Attendance is mandatory for all central government Human Resources Officers and Representatives.

In-Person and Virtual Session Schedule:

St. Croix – August 11, 2025

Location: DC Canegata Recreation Complex

  • Retirees: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. / 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

  • HR Managers: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

  • Active Employees: 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

St. Thomas – August 13, 2025

Location: Pier 22 – Havensight Mall

  • Retirees: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. / 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

  • HR Managers: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

  • Active Employees: 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

St. John – August 14, 2025

Location: Legislature Annex

  • Retirees: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. / 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

  • Active Employees: 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Virtual (Retirees Only) – August 15, 2025

  • 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. / 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

  • Microsoft Teams Meeting

    • Call-in Number: +1-850-583-5114

    • Conference ID: 766 950 63#

For help understanding the new benefits or assistance with enrollment, individuals are encouraged to contact the Group Health Insurance Unit at (340) 774-8588 (St. Thomas) or (340) 718-8588 (St. Croix).

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