We received the letter attached from Verizon concerning retiree medical contributions. This letter is for all retirees with the MEP HCP coverage. The coverage for the MEP HCP plan exceeded the plan cap amounts for 2016 and retirees are getting billed if they wish to remain in the MEP HCP plan. If you ignore the bill your coverage WILL BE TERMINATED. You have an option to leave the MEP HCP plan and go to the HCN plan which does not exceed the cap and there is no charge for this plan. You should visit www.verizonbenfitsconnection.com to see if this plan is an option.
The cap amounts are negotiated between CWA and Verizon. Active members have been working without a contract since August 2015. Verizon is using this tactic as a way to put pressure on CWA in bargaining. This contractual fight is for EVERYONE not just active employees. There will be a retiree meeting in Poughkeepsie at Alloys restaurant on February 11 at 6pm. Local 1120 is forming a retiree committee and would like as many retirees as possible to attend.
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OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
February 19, 2016
Re: Your 2016 Medical Coverage (Verizon)
This matter requires your immediate attention.
Dear Sisters and Brothers:
Earlier this month Verizon sent you the enclosed letter informing you that your medical plan contributions are past due. You are at risk of being dropped from coverage retroactive to January 1, 2016 if your payment is not received by March 1, 2016.
The reason you are being charged a contribution is because the pre-medicare medical plan that you are enrolled in (MEP HCP) has exceeded the caps that were negotiated in the 2011 contract.
Retiree health care is being discussed in bargaining however, at this time we are still without a contract. As a result, since you chose to stay or enroll in the MEP HCP medical plan, you are required to pay the amount over the caps on the Company’s contribution. You should have received bills in December and January with the amounts due. You do have the option to choose another plan that requires zero premiums going forward for 2016 but you are still responsible for premiums for the previous months. You should read the enclosed letter from Verizon that outlines this option.
If you have questions or need assistance please call the Verizon Benefits Center 1-855-4VzBens (1-855-489-2367), Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Please remember, Verizon must receive payment by March 1, 2016.
As always, if you need help from CWA please contact your local.
Very truly yours,
Dennis G. Trainor
Vice President – District One
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