Health, social service
professionals agree to new contract
The union representing the
State's health and social service professionals has reached tentative agreement
with the Schwarzenegger Administration on a new 2-year contract.
The American Federation of
State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) represents 4,130 employees at
various State departments, including Rehabilitation, Mental Health, Corrections
and Rehabilitation, Developmental Services, and Social Services.
The new contract grants a 3.5
percent cost-of-living increase effective July 1, 2006, plus a second COLA next July of 2 to 4 percent,
depending on the consumer price index. In addition, beginning Jan. 1, 2007, the top salary for psychologists and occupational therapists
will increase 5 percent; for pharmacists, 10 percent.
Other key provisions:
·
Pensions for new employees will be based
on their highest three-year average salary, rather than the highest single year
that applies to current employees.
·
New employees who enroll dependents under their State
health plan will be subject to a two-year vesting period before they qualify
for the full employer health contribution for dependent coverage.
·
The State's contribution to employee
health premiums will be reduced from 85 percent of the average premium to 80
percent.
·
Monthly "recruitment and retention" pay
differentials will be considered part of the employee's final compensation for
retirement purposes.
This agreement now goes to the
Legislature and union members for ratification.
Click here for a
summary.
DPA creates
and administers compensation, benefits, training programs, and the
classification plan, and advocates for the interests of the State employer.
