WHEREAS:
There are numerous legislative proposals for health care reform currently before Congress; and
WHEREAS:
A national health plan will likely accelerate on-going changes in the structure of the health care industry; and
WHEREAS:
A national health plan appears to be imminent; and
WHEREAS:
The level of coverage and cost sharing provisions of a national plan cannot be predicted with any certainty; and
WHEREAS:
It is possible that employers will save money under a national health care plan.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That all AFSCME councils and locals are encouraged to bargain for language that will protect existing bargained health benefits and cost sharing provisions in AFSCME negotiated contracts; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That all AFSCME councils and locals are encouraged to bargain for language in negotiated contracts that requires employers to use any savings on employee health benefits resulting from the enactment of a national health care plan for the benefit of AFSCME members, whether it be through increased wages or additional benefits; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That all AFSCME councils and locals are encouraged to bargain for language in AFSCME negotiated contracts that requires employers to explore methods of reducing or otherwise compensating for any employee tax liabilities that might arise under a national health care plan; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:
That all AFSCME councils and locals representing health care workers be encouraged to seek contract language requiring employers to provide the union with adequate notice when the elimination of services or categories of jobs are contemplated and to guarantee transfer rights, and training for employees affected by closures, service reductions, or relocations.
SUBMITTED BY:
Ronald C. Alexander President & Delegate
Elwood Clark, Vice President and Delegate
Vanessa Tolliver Secretary-Treasurer &Delegate
OCSEA/AFSCME Local 11
Ohio