Emanuel: Wellness program needed for city workers

Chicago city employees would have to pay $50 per month more for health care if they choose not to participate in a wellness program announced by Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

Emanuel said Friday that taxpayers shouldn’t have to pay for health care problems that are manageable. The program would include screening and wellness training for conditions such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure. Emanuel says the goal is to save the city money. The city’s $500 million annual health care costs are 10 percent of the budget.

Only one city union hasn’t signed on to the plan. That’s the Fraternal Order of Police. Union president Mike Shields says that’s because the members are “not the healthiest.”

Representatives of the other unions say the program will save millions.