WHEREAS the current maximum coverage amount for hearing aids available through all levels of SARM Extended Health Care Coverage is $1,000 per ear every five years.

WHEREAS compared to the current actual cost of hearing aids the maximum amount of $1,000 per ear every five years offered through SARM Extended Health Care Coverage is minimal and may be insufficient to offset costs for many municipal employees experiencing hearing loss which in turn may prevent the purchase of hearing aids by individuals who would benefit from having them.

BE IT RESOLVED that SARM increase the Extended Health Care Coverage to $4,000 per ear every five years, to ensure that municipal employees who may benefit from the use of hearing aids are able to purchase them without experiencing financial hardships.