Orange County Expands County Health Benefits

GOSHEN – The Orange County Democratic Caucus announced that Orange County has officially expanded its employee health insurance offerings to include eligible domestic partners through the New York State Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP), effective January 1, 2027.

The effort was led by Orange County Legislator Stephen Hunter (D – Newburgh), who identified that while NYSHIP permits domestic partner coverage, the County had never formally opted in. We would like to thank County Attorney Rick Golden; Dan Castricone, former head of Risk Management; and the County Executive, that helped Hunter resolve the administrative gap to ensure county workers can enroll qualified partners during the current Open Enrollment period, running through October 30, 2026.

“Local government should lead by example with fair, competitive workplace benefits,” said Legislator Stephen Hunter. “By collaborating across departments to fix this outdated omission, we are ensuring our benefits reflect the realities of today’s dedicated public workforce. This is a common-sense update that supports families and keeps Orange County competitive as an employer.”

The decision follows neighboring Ulster County, whose legislature recently adopted Resolution No. 502 to extend county health benefits to domestic partners. It also reflects broader demographic realities: according to Pew Research Center data, 59% of U.S. adults aged 18 to 44 have cohabited with an unmarried partner, while U.S. Census figures show median marriage ages reaching historic highs above 30 for men and 28 for women. Millions of committed couples—both straight and same-sex—manage shared households, joint finances, and dependent care without or prior to marriage.

“This policy update is about equity and talent retention,” added the Genesis Ramos, Leader of the Democratic Caucus. “Leading private employers have offered domestic partner benefits for decades. Thanks to Legislator Hunter’s proactive leadership and the administration’s support, Orange County is better positioned to recruit and retain the workforce serving our community.”

Coverage requires submission of NYSHIP Form PS-425 along with proof of at least six months of shared residency and financial interdependence. Eligible government employees must submit original enrollment paperwork to Orange County Risk Management by Friday, October 30, 2026.