CWA/AT&T SW Bargaining Report #5

Today the Union Bargaining team met with the Company and received the Company’s first comprehensive benefits proposal. The presentation took several hours as there was a lot of information to explain. And lots of questions were asked.

Not to get too deep into the weeds as this proposal will likely change multiple times over the course of the next 5 weeks through counter proposals, however it would move all current employees including any new hires into the same bargained for medical program. Additionally, they are proposing to make a change to the savings plan which would put everyone into the same plan excluding employees in Appendix J (they would remain in the AT&T Retirement Savings Plan & Cash Balance #2).

There are some major differences in the Health Care Plan with their initial proposal than what we have currently, in which we plan to meet with the CWA Research Department to walk through their proposal and what it would look like for our members. The Research Department has seen this similar proposal two times previously last year at the other core tables. 

Lots more information to come in future reports as we bargain with the Company towards crafting the best benefits package possible for our members. 

The day ended with the Union passing four new proposals for stronger language in Appendix J’s supplemental statements. Additionally, the Company’s proposal to eliminate severance pay for employees who are terminated was officially rejected. 

There was a lot of work that went into the first week at the table with the Company and we could not do this without you, the members, continuing to show support and mobilizing in the field and in your offices towards a fair contract!

Our next report will come out after Monday’s session with the Company.

To stay updated on actions and mobilizations, text FIGHT to 49484. You can also fill out this quick form to get involved and receive the latest bargaining updates.

In Solidarity,

CWA/AT&T SW Bargaining Team

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