WESTMORELAND COUNTY SALARY BOARD RESCINDS POLICY REGARDING HEALTH BENEFITS AFTER RETIREMENT

On Monday, the Westmoreland County Salary Board rescinded a policy to allow non-union members to receive health benefits after retirement. The Trib reports that the vote was unanimous to eliminate the program. Officials say the move will save taxpayers up to $3.5 million annually. The move will only impact new employees; nonunion workers on the payroll before Jan. 1 will still be eligible to receive the benefit. Last year, the county paid $28 million in health care benefits for employees, and that figure is expected to exceed $30 million in 2026.