This week on The SEANC View Podcast, we are joined by State Health Plan Executive Administrator Thomas Friedman for an in-depth look at the challenges facing the Plan and its 750,000-plus members.

We discuss the ongoing negotiations with CVS Caremark and the expected premium increases for next year. We also touch on the pressing issues of high healthcare costs and the need for transparency, and Friedman shares the Plan's strategies to make healthcare more affordable for state employees and retirees.

This is a must-listen episode for all state employees and retirees concerned about the rising cost of their health care. Click here to listen!

The legislature left Raleigh this week without agreeing on a state budget or a "mini-budget" that would have provided raises and bonuses.

The House and Senate continue to be too far apart on their tax plans to reach a compromise. State employees and retirees will continue to receive paychecks, and state operations will continue as usual. Lawmakers are expected to return in the fall to finish their work and hopefully pass a budget.

With the two sides at odds, there is still time to contact your House and Senate lawmakers and tell them to support state employees and retirees. Click the button below to do so.