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“We have a very real fear that, left unchecked, this [VLRB] decision invites management to misapply the plain language of our union contracts and thus deny state workers the benefit of their bargain,” Mitchell said. “I say that because we believe the decision overlooks the plain meaning of existing contract language by ignoring that Waterbury State offices were ‘completely closed’ after August 29, 2011, and creating a new definition of the terms ‘State offices and facilities’ out of whole cloth.” 

“I’ll believe it when I see it,” [VSEA Board and Benefits Advisory Committee Member Dave] Bellini said of the proposed savings [from switching providers]. “How much cheaper was Blue Cross’ bid? Did we see it in writing?” 

Notes: The switch comes the same year state employees enjoyed three premium holidays. VSEA representatives voted to stay with Cigna but they were defeated by others in the room with a vote.

Winners of the following awards will be announced at VSEA’s 69th Annual Meeting on Saturday, Sept. 14 at Jay Peak Resort:

Mazza Award
Macaig Award
Chapter of the Year
Steward of the Year
Linda Coan Award

Cast your vote today!

Timothy Harrington died tragically in an August 19 car crash. He was a 17-year DOC Corrections Officer who worked at the Northeast State Correctional Facility. VSEA sends its heartfelt condolences to Brother Harrington’s family, friends and co-workers.

“I am very pleased that CMS found the Vermont Veterans’ Home ‘in compliance’ and that federal funding will not be withdrawn from that facility,” said Sen. Bernie Sanders (I). 

Congratulations (once again) to the Vets’ Home frontline nurses and caregivers! You make the Vets’ Home work.