Contract with US Steel Remains in Effect
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While we look forward to continuing our negotiations with U.S. Steel in the near future, we remind all of our brothers and sisters that, as we have since Sept. 1, we are continuing to work under an extension of our existing contract with the company. While this extension is in effect, the company remains bound by our basic labor agreement, including our grievance procedure and other important provisions.
Active & Retiree Health Care
As you know, one of the major issues in these negotiations has been maintaining quality, affordable health care coverage for our members, families and retirees. The company has proposed major changes that could cost Steelworkers and their families thousands of dollars more per year. We will continue to fight back against the company’s repeated demands for unnecessary cost increases when we return to the bargaining table.
This week, the company sent letters to our retired members that could cause some concern about changes and possible cost increases to retiree benefits in the upcoming year. In the letters, the company announced a Dec. 16 deadline for open enrollment for retiree benefits and warned of potentially substantial premium increases. We urge anyone with questions to contact the company’s benefits service center at the number or e-mail address provided in the letter.
We are committed to bargaining an agreement that ensures fair treatment for our members and retirees, and we are hopeful that we can head off the “worst case scenario” premium increases the company threatened in its letter this week. We will continue to keep everyone informed about this situation as bargaining continues.
Stand Up for Fair Trade
The current crisis in our industry has made for a difficult round of bargaining, but it isn’t just a problem for American steel producers. Steelworkers around the world are facing problems due to the flood of unfair imports. Last week, the USW joined 17 steel unions from 10 countries calling for aggressive government action against China’s illegal trading practices. You can join our call to action by visiting https://actionnetwork.org/forms/its-time-for-global-fair-trade-policies.
Stay in Touch, Work Safe
Please continue to work safely, stay strong and stay in touch with your CAT coordinators and local officers. We will alert you as soon as there are any developments to report related to bargaining.
In Solidarity,
Your 2015 U.S. Steel Bargaining Committee
