Average insurance premiums flat or down for Ga. employees

ATLANTA (AP) State health officials say the average health care insurance premiums for state employees, teachers and retirees will drop or stay stable next year.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that premiums will remain the same on average or decrease up to $21.36 per month. The amount depends on the plan and who's covered.

Department of Community Health Commissioner Clyde Reese told the agency's board that the State Health Benefit Plan had a good year and can afford the reduction.

Spokesman for an employee and retiree activist group John Palmer says the decision is encouraging.