Dear CSR members,
I want to share important news that affects California State Retirees and our dental benefits. On June 1, 2026, the California Joint Legislative Audit Committee approved an audit of CalHR's administration of Delta Dental and related issues, including retiree dental coverage, oversight, costs, and program administration.
This is an important step toward greater transparency and accountability.
Many retirees have raised concerns regarding rising out-of-pocket costs, changes in coverage, access to dental providers, customer service, claims handling, and oversight of retiree dental benefits.
I have personally been advocating for an audit of this nature ever since I was assigned to our organization's Health Benefits Committee (HBC). I am grateful for the work done on behalf of CSR members by the HBC, CSR leaders, and our lobbyist, Ted Toppin.
The audit process will allow independent reviewers to examine these issues and provide findings and recommendations to the legislature. CSR will closely monitor the audit and advocate for the interests of California State Retirees throughout the process. We believe retirees deserve affordable dental coverage and clear accountability from all parties involved.
Over the past year and a half, we have been engaged in a relationship-building program with state legislators. These relationships are beginning to pay off as there was zero opposition to the audit requested by Senator Dave Cortese; In fact, Senator Brian Jones gave a statement in support with his own experience of losing a longtime dentist.
Additionally, CalHR has reported MetLife will be a new available dental care option for 2027. CalHR has indicated they would be reaching out to CSR with an official announcement in the next few days. It is encouraging to have CalHR add MetLife to the available options and possible competition to Delta Dental.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement. Together, we can ensure retiree voices are heard. We will provide updates as information becomes available.
Sincerely,
Joe Reynoso
President
California State Retirees