WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools voted to cut dental insurance coverage for current and retired employees at its Sept. 23rd board meeting.

It's move district leaders say will save $2.5 million amidst its $37 million budget deficit. Now, retired employees on fixed incomes will be forced to cover their own dental insurances.

According to Jason Keith, attorney at Keith & Associates, the decision is legal. If the contract agreement does not specifically protect certain benefit programs, like dental coverage, the school district has the right to cancel it.

This applies even if a retired employee has agreed to the terms of their retirement benefits package.

In North Carolina, dental coverage is considered an "optional supplemental benefit" for retirees. This gives

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