Members Memorial

An analysis of the Governor’s proposed State Budget indicates an across the board reduction in funding to all state agencies of approximately 10 to 15 percent.  That would translate to approximately 6000 to 9000 layoffs (near 7/1/2010).  Read more »

We’ve just booked the three Conference Rooms for March 8, 2010, 12noon to 1:00pm. at 10 Park Plaza, Boston.  Read more »

We’ve completed a weeklong series of meetings within the EOHHS SCIO IT services community explaining “WAVE ONE” of the transfer of 61 positions to IDT in Chelsea, along with the DATA STORAGE SERVERS (hardware) over the next 18 months.  Read more »

I’ve received two calls for having a membership meeting with Mass. Dept. of Transportation members.  Chris Grey is working to set up a noon time meeting.  The most recent Voluntary Layoff Incentive Program could have been broadcast in a more sensitive manner.  This union has NOT been notified of any NEED to lay off anyone.  Certainly the 250 figure is baseless, as I have not been notified and the final figures are not in for any agency budget.  Read more »

As you are aware, the Group Insurance Commission (GIC) voted late last year to increase our health insurance co-pays and deductibles effective February 1, 2010.  

 Subject to the legislature funding the new collective bargaining agreement, NAGE members will be reimbursed the deductibles they pay and the difference between the new co-pay and the old co-pay. This reimbursement program covers any GIC increase in co-pays and deductibles instituted up to and including June 30, 2011.

 While we’re very pleased that NAGE members will be reimbursed for these increases, we remain frustrated by the Commonwealth’s delay in spelling out the details of the reimbursement program. The state has not yet announced whether the reimbursment will be triggered automatically at the time of health services, or if members will have to submit bills/receipts or other paperwork in order to receive the reimbursement. Therefore, we’re urging you to keep any bills/receipts you receive from your health-care providers beginning February 1, 2010.

 We hope to have more information about the reimbursement program soon and will provide updates as they become available.

 For more information about the GIC changes, go to our Health Insurance FAQ page

For more information about the co-pay increase, go to the GIC’s site

For more information about the deductible, go to the GIC’s FAQ section.