A union representing 100,000 state workers and retirees has reached a deal with Gov. Phil Murphy's administration to curtail a large hike in health insurance premiums , New Jersey labor leaders said on Sept. 4.

The agreement prevents a $100 million budget cut that would have raised workers' health premiums next year by 21%. There is no increase under the new deal.

The agreement comes as the private sector expects to get hit with large increases in 2026.

Filings with state regulators show that Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, the biggest insurer in the marketplace, is proposing an average increase of 17%. AmeriHealth Insurance Co., the second biggest, is proposing an average rate hike of 15.5%. UnitedHealthcare Insurance Co. is proposing an average increase of 18.4%.

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