State Sen. Singer on rising costs for state workers: 'It happened with car insurance and now it's happening with health care'

Robert W. Singer, the state senator for New Jersey's District 30, said in an interview that the state must reevaluate its involvement in healthcare provision due to unsustainable costs associated with state workers' family plans.

"We're going to have to take a look at healthcare in the state, especially for state workers," said W. Singer. "The cost right now for a family plan is $50,000 a year. I mean, that's just beyond. We have to get out of the health care business."

Singer further mentioned that the state is spending billions annually to support undocumented residents, describing the situation as "unsustainable." He cited estimates reaching up to $7 billion per year for services, including healthcare, for over one million undocumented individuals residing in the state.

According to the Healthcare Value Hub, a survey of over 1,100 New Jersey adults revealed that 57% had encountered at least one healthcare affordability burden in the past year, such as skipping care or incurring medical debt. An overwhelming 85% expressed concern about affording healthcare in the future. Lower-income individuals and those with disabilities are disproportionately affected. Despite political differences, there is strong bipartisan support for government-led solutions to address these rising costs.

Car insurance premiums in New Jersey have increased due to legislative changes, rising repair costs, and increased accident severity. Yahoo Finance reports that since the 2023 increase in minimum liability requirements, low-income drivers have experienced annual premium increases of approximately $145, with another $150 hike anticipated in 2026. This cost burden has contributed to an increase in the uninsured rate from 3.1% in 2019 to a projected 14.1% by 2025.

Singer currently serves as the Deputy Republican Leader and is the senior ranking member of the Senate Health, Human Services, and Senior Citizens Committee. Throughout his tenure, he has been actively involved in healthcare policy and has advocated for reforms to address New Jersey's healthcare challenges.