According to Don Stevens, who is the retiree representative on the town’s insurance advisory committee (IAC), “Since the fight over higher premium contributions began, there have been other developments, most importantly forcing retirees, eligible for Medicare, into the insurance program.”

If Chelmsford adopts the mandatory Medicare law (Section 18), its retirees and survivors, who are eligible for Medicare, will be forced to enroll in Parts A and B and a supplemental insurance plan offered by it. The transfer could possibly take effect this July.

“I personally do not object to Section 18, if it’s handled the right way,” continues Stevens. “Unfortunately, it appears that here in Chelmsford that’s not the case.”

“Our comparison shows that the plans are not equal and, therefore, not in compliance with the law,” continues Stevens. “We also have a problem with the fact that town officials went ahead and mandated Medicare without first consulting the insurance advisory committee. Since they didn’t negotiate with the unions over the impact of this change for future retirees, union officials are considering an unfair labor practice complaint.”

Town officials have claimed that mandatory Medicare will save Chelmsford $300,000 in premium costs. However, Stevens and others have countered that this figure is an exaggeration, with $99,800 being a much more realistic amount. They also point out that whatever the savings, it’s clearly offset by the increased insurance costs to retirees and their families in terms of paying two premiums, one for the supplement plan and the other for Medicare Part B.

Association Works With Wellfleet Group

Over the years, the Association has worked closely with many local public retiree organizations.

“For example, we’re now working with the Wellfleet Retiree Group in their fight against mandatory Medicare,” reports Legislative Chairman Bill Hill. “Wellfleet retirees, like Chelmsford, believe that they should not be forced to enroll in Medicare but should be allowed to remain in the non-Medicare plans they are currently enrolled in.”

By way of background, the Wellfleet Retiree Group began last year in response to a proposal, back then, to accept mandatory Medicare. According to the group’s officials, its goals extend beyond opposing mandatory Medicare and encompass protecting, as well as enhancing, pension and insurance benefits for all Wellfleet retirees and their families.

“Last year, we were successful in blocking the town’s acceptance  of Section 18,” reports Ray Squire, retired Wellfleet assessor who is the group’s president. “But our success has been short-lived, and we’re facing the same challenge again this year.

“I’ve spoken with Association officials at length about the best strategy to employ and appreciate their insights.” Squire also pointed to another role that the Association has provided. “Just as important, it has served as a clearinghouse. Association staff have put me in touch with retirees in other communities, who are facing similar issues, like Don in Chelmsford.