DES MOINES, Iowa -- Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds say they will begin paying 20 percent of their health care insurance premiums beginning Aug. 1.

They're trying to set an example for other state employees who now have a new option in their insurance coverage to pay 20 percent of their premiums themselves.

Branstad signed an executive order Monday that allows the voluntary payments.

Branstad individually asked all state-wide elected officials and department heads to volunteer as well.

The governor's spokesman says if all eligible state workers paid 20 percent of their own premiums the state could save $100 million.

For the governor, the voluntary payment totals about $225 a month. Reynolds will pay $153.

About 27,000 state employees are eligible to sign up through July 19. Payments begin Aug. 1.