NBA Retiree Benefit Program Update

Effective April 1, 2024, funding to the Nurses’ Bargaining Association (NBA) Retiree Benefit Program (RBP) commenced for licensed practical nurses (LPNs). BCNU secured LPN inclusion in the program during NBA 2022–2025 contract negotiations.

The RBP is a negotiated fund under the NBA provincial collective agreement for “Eligible Retirees,” as that term is defined in the RBP plan text, which is available on the BCNU website. The RBP provides funding for inflation protection and benefits for eligible retirees. Initially, the RBP fund was used to subsidize eligible retirees’ MSP premiums.

Following MSP premium changes, a 2023 survey was conducted to gain insight on health benefits program members value most. The committee delegated with responsibility for administering the RBP fund (the “RBP Committee”) is reviewing potential new benefit designs for eligible retirees.

The RPB Committee is also in the process of undertaking a governance review to, among other matters, identify options to include LPN representation on the RBP Committee. The process for LPN members to apply to enrol in the program will be confirmed following the governance review. BCNU will provide a further update to members once available.

BCNU is currently engaged in a tax due diligence process regarding the proposed use of the funds and expects to update members in the fall.

The RBP is funded exclusively from the one percent market adjustment of payroll collected through the Health Employers Association of BC and transferred to BCNU on behalf of the NBA. Future benefits and funding of the RBP are not guaranteed. The RBP Committee administers the contributed funds in accordance with the RBP plan text.

Learn more about the Retiree Benefit Program.