CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- The West Virginia State Troopers Association said leaving new employees to cover the costs of state insurance coverage will hurt everyone.

Leaders said it will make it impossible for them to recruit and keep qualified state troopers, which will hurt public safety. Several troopers joined teachers and other state workers at a public hearing Monday night to speak out about the proposal.

The idea is to eliminate the health care retirement subsidy for anyone who is hired by the state after next year. That would make the cost of health care about $1,000 each month after they retire -- something that troopers say will cost the public.

The PEIA board said they have more than $6 billion in unfunded liability, which will only grow if these steps aren't taken.

The board approved the plan at an emergency meeting earlier this year, but after several teachers organizations threatened to sue they decided to hold the public hearings.