College Procedure Number/Title:

The Howard Community College employee benefits program is part of a total compensation program which includes salary plus all benefits and perquisites (“perks”).  The benefits program also helps to enhance employee morale and productivity and helps to attract and retain quality personnel.  The benefits program is intended to help provide financial protection in the event of illness or injuries that result in loss of wages; opportunities for professional development; and income management alternatives.

The college offers certain benefits contingent upon available resources.  The college reserves the right to amend or delete any of these programs or to require or increase employee premium contributions toward any benefits at its discretion.  These benefits may include: group health benefits; extended group health benefits; life insurance; short and long-term disability insurance; accidental death and dismemberment insurance; liability coverage; tuition reimbursement and tuition waiver.

Some benefits include family members.  When enabled by law and by the benefits programs offered by Howard County to the college, family will include same-sex domestic partners and eligible dependents.  Same-sex domestic partners must complete an affidvavit. 

Certain employee benefits are provided and/or required by federal or state law: the Maryland State Retirement Systems retirement program including the optional retirement program; workers compensation; unemployment compensation coverage; and Federal Insurance Contribution Act (Social Security).

The college may also provide other benefits as appropriate that may include credit union; direct deposit; professional development opportunities; savings bonds; employee assistance; and physical fitness and wellness opportunities.  Complete information regarding benefit programs is available in the office of human resources.

Some benefits may be granted to acting or interim employees and other full-time temporary employees by the president.  (See the "Employment Definitions" procedure 63.03.01 of the "Employment" policy 63.03 in this manual.)

Same-sex domestic partners are defined as:

  1. The partners must have attained a minimum age, usually 18
  2. Neither partner is related by blood closer than is permitted by state law for marriage
  3. The partners must have a committed relationship
  4. The partners must be financially interdependent
  5. The partners must live in the same household

Effective Date:  11/14/2008