June 15, 2007

Less than 1 week away from the June 21st imposed deadline to the employers, progress remains slow at the bargaining table.  There are still many critical issues that remain unresolved. 

The employer's latest proposal on funding your health benefit plan would significantly reduce your benefits in the 3rd year of the contract and inflict higher co-pays and premiums onto you while the employers would save hundreds of millions of dollars.

We are also working diligently to eliminate the 2 tier wage system, yet the employers' idea of correcting the system is to impose a 3rd tier.  The employers have also not had the decency to propose any wage increases for our journeymen/.experienced members who have gone without a raise for 5 years. 

We are working extremely hard to ensure that you receive the contract that you deserve.  Stay strong, stay united, and stay informed.