Hurst Stands Firm on Retiree Protections Amid Council Vote on Medicare Advantage Plan
Councilman Darryl Hurst opposed the new Medicare Advantage plan, citing retiree protections and legal concerns despite potential $19 million savings
BATON ROUGE, La. —The East Baton Rouge Metro Council voted Wednesday night to switch retirees’ health coverage to a private Medicare Advantage program, a move expected to save the city-parish more than $19 million. All but one of the seven members present approved the plan, with Councilman Darryl Hurst casting the sole dissenting vote.
Hurst raised concerns about the short notice provided to retirees and the potential impact on those with serious medical conditions.
“They want them to opt out, but they’re not being fully informed. Imagine someone who needs to be on an organ donor list, going through a transplant, or battling cancer—and the plan doesn’t cover it. There were a lot of questions that weren’t answered,” Hurst said. “I’m not against Medicare Advantage if it’s the right fit, but the process has to protect the people it affects.”
He also warned that the rushed timeline could expose the city-parish to legal challenges. Hurst questioned the automatic enrollment process, noting retirees could be “stuck” in the new plan if they failed to actively opt out within 90 days.
“In three or four months, we want people to know they can opt out. Why can’t we notify them and let them opt in instead of forcing them into a plan?” he said.
Council members who supported the plan pushed back. Councilman Aaron Moak said the possibility of legal action should not halt policy decisions. “Anything we do as a council, you might get sued for something. I can’t hold up everything just because there’s a chance of a lawsuit,” Moak said.
Despite criticism, Hurst remains steadfast. He is seeking a formal opinion from the Louisiana Attorney General before any final implementation, a process that requires council approval. Hurst has asked the mayor to submit the request to the president’s office to expedite the review.
“I’m standing here for the people first. Money saved doesn’t matter if it comes at the cost of someone’s health or security,” Hurst said.
A special council meeting is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 29, to vote on the plan again, with an Oct. 1 deadline looming for any retiree health coverage changes. Hurst said he will continue to press for full transparency and protections for employees before any transition occurs.
