Welcome to the web site for AFSCME Local 1368, Massachusetts Department of Youth Services Employees. Be sure to take some time and go through the entire site, as you will find a great amount of information. Be sure to send your comments and suggestions directly to me. Thank you.

In Solidarity,
Chris Gilbert, President
Prezof1368@aol.com

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 AFSCME 1368 News


CONTRACT WISH LIST

As we begin to negotiate a new three year deal with the Commonwealth, the Local is seeking input from the membership. We want you to reply to this survey with suggestions for the successor agreement. If possible, please include the related article from the Contract that addresses the issue. Enter your suggestions in the block below:

DYS SURVEY

DYS, in conjunction with the WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT initiative, has issued a very important survey. This survey will be completed online, to ensure it remains totally anonymous. The Local leadership encourages every member to take a few minutes and complete the survey. For those members who do not have access to the Internet, we ask those who do, to assist your Brothers and Sisters in this important task.
 
In Solidarity,
Chris Gilbert, President

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VICTORY ON HEALTH INSURANCE

Dear AFSCME Member;
We are pleased to inform you that the Massachusetts House of Representatives has voted to REJECT a proposal in the House budget that would have raised state employee health insurance contribution rates by 5% to 10%.  This proposal would have resulted in out-of-pocket increases of 33%-67% for our members.
The proposal was defeated through an amendment co-sponsored by 106 of the 160 members of the House. The amendment passed by a vote of 144-10.  
While there were widespread reports throughout the week that we would win this fight, the formal vote did not take place until Friday evening at 7:40 P.M.  
The budget process now moves to the Senate where Council 93 will continue to aggressively fight any effort to increase your health insurance costs.
Thanks to all who contacted their state representatives to seek their support.  Please forward this message to your members.     

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HEALTH INSURANCE THREAT

As expected, the House FY09 budget was released yesterday afternoon with a proposed increase in employee health insurance contribution rates.  The House plan mirrors the plan proposed by Governor Patrick, which is as follows: 
·       Workers earning $35,000 to $50,000 would have their premium share increased from 15% to 20%.
·       Workers earning $50,000 or above would have their premium share increased from 15% to 25%.
The proposed increases would result in out-of-pocket increases of 33%-67%, depending on a worker’s annual income. 
Council 93’s Department of Legislation, Political Action and Communications is working closely with a coalition of other public employee unions to defeat this measure.  However, in order to maximize our chances of success, WE NEED YOUR HELP.
State Representative Marty Walsh is sponsoring an amendment to the budget that would eliminate the proposed increase in your contribution rates and maintain current health insurance premium contributions. 

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