By Bill Rusteberg
You will not hear this from any insurance broker or consultant. But it needs to be said………..
Brownsville ISD has no business being in the health insurance business and should join the TRS ActiveCare program at the earliest possible date.
The earliest possible date is September 1, 2027, if notice is provided to TRS no later than midnight, 31 December 2026. Or, in the alternative, since your group medical renewal is 1 January, you may petition to apply off cycle although that may be problematic.
In the latter case TRS may accept off cycle entry as they have been known to do with several other large districts but with a 40% premium load to hold until the next TRS ActiveCare renewal cycle which is September of each year.
To determine if TRS ActiveCare is a competitive alternative, develop conventional equivalent rates based on current claim and expenses and apply trending and reserve requirements through the next 12 months. Then compare rates to TRS ActiveCare. You will likely see significant savings for similar benefits.
HOMEWORK READING ASSIGNMENT:
Brownsville ISD Believes In Magic
At their October 6, 2026 board meeting the Brownsville Independent School District trustees, facing a $28,000,000 deficit on their self-funded health plan, approved a one-year extension to make it worse. Continue reading
ADDITIONAL HOMEWORK READING ASSIGNMENT:
Thinking About Leaving TRS ActiveCare? – Risk Managers
TRS ActiveCare – Seven Reasons Districts Opt Out – Risk Managers
Is TRS ActiveCare The Best Option For Your District? – Risk Managers
The 2026 TRS ActiveCare Blitzkreig Continues – Risk Managers
TRS ActiveCare Releases New Hit Theme Song – Risk Managers
TRS ActiveCare 2025-2026 Benefits & Rates – Risk ManagersHow Are Texas School Districts Outside TRS ActiveCare Faring These Days? – Risk Managers
FROM INSURANCE BROKER:
You’re trying to sink TRSAC. Shame on you!