CONTRACT AGREEMENT
I’ve now been able to get more information about our tentative contract agreement and, for the most part it looks very good to me. Below are some of the additional gains and losses that affect us at Downstate. I’ve already told you about the 3, 3, 3, and 4% increases and the boost in location pay first to $1850 and then to $3026 in October 2008.
GAINS
Inconvenience pay increases from $550 to $575/year retroactive to 4/2/07
Voluntary program that allows you to “bank” overtime pay for payment at a later date.
Student dependent health coverage ends 3 months after graduation – eff. 7/1/08
Increases in vision plan effective 1/1/09 – we move to a higher level of coverage
Required answer to written vacation request must be provided within 5 days.
On-call pay increased from 20% to 25% retroactive to 4/2/07
Overtime meal allowance increased from $5.50 to $6 retroactive to 4/2/07
Enhanced voucher program to support degree completion for SUNY Nurses
Enhanced voucher alternative program for Nurses to attend workshops and meetings
Additional funding for nurses including support for specialized training and certifications
LOSSES
ER copay increases from $60 to $70 effective 1/1/10
Outpatient hospital copay increases from $35 to $40 effective 1/1/10
Doctor office visit and lab/radiology copays increase from $18 to $20 effective 7/1/09
Non-preferred brand name drug (Tier 3) copay increases by $10 effective 7/1/08
(No change in copay for Tier 1and 2 drugs)
Pilot program to stop mandatory overtime that actually makes the problem worse for Nurses
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BALLOTS FOR LOCAL PEF STEWARD ELECTIONS MAILED OUT 2/12/08. PLEASE VOTE.
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MEMBERSHIP MEETING
WITH THE CONTRACT TEAM
February 25, 2008
11:30 – 1:30
Lunch will be provided