Verizon Regional Bargaining Report # 45

The Mid Atlantic Regional Bargaining Committee met with the company today to discuss questions and issues related to Healthcare. As you are aware, the company has proposed extremely drastic changes to the existing health care plan and these changes would result in significant out of pocket expenses for every active employee as well as retirees. We presented the company with additional information requests on health care costs, including the cost of compound drugs and the proposal by management to implement a Medicare Advantage plan for retirees. After yesterday’s contentious meeting the bargaining team continues to look at every single thing we can and question every bit of data in order to get a fair contract. Neither side had any new proposals to make today. The company did restate their position on its demand for more employee cost sharing in the health care arena.

There were also bargaining sessions at the Potomac and New Jersey local tables.

As the rain falls today, the company should recognize that it is CWA members who are out working and making this company successful. Based upon the billions this company makes in profits, we will not stand for anything less than a fair and just contract. It will take more than just this bargaining team to do it. Every active and retired member must be engaged in this fight and be willing to walk and mobilize through good weather and bad. It will take all of us to get the contract we deserve. If you are not engaged in this fight then call your local immediately to find out about activities in your area.