BATON ROUGE — East Baton Rouge City-Parish employees could face higher health insurance premiums and deductibles next year, according to proposed benefits changes.

The changes come months after employee pay raises prompted questions about whether higher benefit costs could reduce workers’ gains.

WBRZ previously reported that the Metro Council approved East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sid Edward's plan, giving raises to Baton Rouge police officers in April. The following month, city-parish employees received a 3.5% pay increase. During those discussions, council members raised concerns about future insurance costs impacting raises. 

The posted 2027 rate table lists the following proposed contribution information, labeled as biweekly:

The 2026 benefits guide lists current rates, which are calculated monthly:

The information provided suggests costs of HMO and POS insurance plans for employees would raise 25% while HDHP plans would be 35% more expensive.  

The council will vote on the change at its upcoming meeting on Oct. 14. 

Open enrollment is scheduled for Nov. 2–20, with changes taking effect Jan. 1, 2027. Employees with spouse or family coverage must complete a spousal coverage verification form during enrollment