The SEANC View Podcast
The SEANC View Podcast is a weekly podcast from SEANC Staff and Members examining the issues impacting state employees and retirees. Listen everywhere you get your podcasts!
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State Health Plan increasing premiums for 2026
The State Health Plan Board of Trustees voted today to increase premiums for most state employees and retirees for the first time in eight years. The increases will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026. The plan consists of a tiered structure for the increases, with higher-paid employees paying more monthly than lower-paid employees. For some, the increase will be as low as $15 per month, while those making over $90,000 could see their premiums triple. This week’s episode of The SEANC View Podcast, recorded before the meeting, focuses on the State Health Plan increases. We also discuss the state budget,…
State audit finds DMV needs more workers, better pay
Welcome to the SEANC View podcast, where host Jonathan Owens, Ardis Watkins, and Sam Cline discuss the pressing issues facing state employees and public services. Focusing on the recent mini budget, they discuss the fiscal challenges and political dynamics affecting funding for state employees and retirees. The podcast also highlights State Auditor Dave Bullock’s recent audit of the DMV. The audit reveals long-standing staffing and salary challenges and suggests potential structural changes for the DMV. The discussion extends to broader issues such as state workforce retention and the impact of political decisions on public service delivery. The episode wraps up…
Navigating the “minibudget” and Public School Maze
In this episode of the SEANC View podcast, Samantha Cline takes the helm as host, joined by Executive Director Ardis Watkins, Government Relations Director Suzanne Beasley, and special guest SEANC Public Schools Liaison Brad Langhans. The team dives into the intricacies of school funding and the legislative sessions affecting all state employees. We highlight the absence of across-the-board pay increases for state employees and address the mini-budget’s impact. Brad Langhans shares insights on the role of SEANC in public schools, focusing on advocacy and support for teachers and classified staff. The conversation covers various topics, from salary structures and local…
GEN Z Takeover: A Probation Officer’s Journey and Insights
In this special Gen Z episode of the SEANC View podcast, Samantha Cline and Jamison Rhodes sit down with Ramona Williams, a dedicated probation and parole officer, who shares her journey from aspiring lawyer to her current role, illustrating the challenges and rewards of public service. Discover the motivations driving Ramona’s career choice, the obstacles she faced entering the field, and how her experiences have shaped her perspective on criminal justice. Ramona offers a unique lens on societal issues, highlighting the importance of understanding mental health and substance use in her role. Gain insights into the discretion and compassion required…