Message from Business Manager Craig Fields:
A rumor has been floated that Verizon wants to end retiree medical in
2026. Despite the company’s cruel increases to retiree medical costs
planned for 2025, at no time did the company propose ending retiree
medical; not in 2026, or any other time. There is no validity to this
rumor.
In Solidarity,
Craig Fields
In late May, CWA, IBEW, and Verizon began negotiations to determine whether an agreement could be reached to extend the current collective bargaining agreements. By late June, significant differences remained between the parties’ proposals, and the Unions informed the Company of our intention to conclude negotiations.
At the Company’s request, a high-level meeting was held, during which the Unions agreed to continue discussions, with the understanding that the Company was prepared to more fully address the Unions’ concerns.
Despite these continued efforts, the Company has not adequately responded to the needs and priorities of our members. Instead, the Company has chosen to end the bargaining process.
Joint Statement from IBEW and CWA:
As you know, our current collective bargaining agreement with Verizon does not expire until August 1, 2026.
However, Verizon, CWA and IBEW are jointly announcing today that we will be entering into bargaining beginning May 21, 2025 to determine whether it is possible to agree on the terms of a contract extension.
We will keep you posted on further developments.
The union hall has received numerous inquiries about a possible Surplus declaration by Verizon. We have confirmed that there is an offer in Mid Atlantic, however, at this time Verizon has not declared any surplus in New England. If a future offer is announced, we will feature that news on our recorded tape and our social media sites.
The general wage increase for 2024 of 3% was effective this Sunday, August 4th. The increase will be reflected in payroll beginning on Friday, August 16th.
Please remember that the monthly meeting for August was suspended by unanimous vote at the June meeting. The next meeting will be Wednesday, September 11th.
Stay safe, stay strong, and be proud to be a union member!
Help us protect hospitals threatened with closure due to the Steward Healthcare crisis. Join one of the events listed below being held in communities impacted by the potential loss of these vital facilities, and feel free to invite friends and family members to show their support for community-based care!
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