State Workers in Shock: Will Murphy’s New Health Plan Drain Their Paychecks?

Trenton, NJ—August 1, 2025:
A political storm is brewing in New Jersey as Governor Phil Murphy’s administration signals a drastic shift in health care costs for state workers—sparking outrage, protests, and deep concern among nearly 75,000 union-backed public employees.

Behind closed doors, talks have intensified over a controversial proposal that could force state workers to shell out much more for their health care. While Governor Murphy claims it’s an attempt to control ballooning expenses in the State Health Benefits Program—which covers around 294,000 employees, retirees, and dependents—workers see it as a betrayal.

The proposed plan includes steep hikes in monthly premiums, co-pays, and prescription drug costs. Union members say the financial pressure on already strained workers is unacceptable. “It’s outrageous and unfair,” union leaders shouted at Monday’s rally in Trenton, demanding lawmakers step in to protect affordable access to health care.

But there’s more. In a move that has many on edge, the state is also weighing restrictions on high-cost medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy—popular for weight loss—claiming such steps could save millions. Additionally, officials want to conduct routine price negotiations with drug providers to further cut expenses.

Critics argue that instead of targeting working families, the administration should focus on fixing the system’s inefficiencies. As union anger grows, the battle over who bears the cost of New Jersey’s health care crisis is just heating up.

Will the plan move forward—or will public pressure force a political U-turn? All eyes are now on Governor Murphy’s next move.