For Release: Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan workers overwhelmingly ratify agreement

DETROIT -- UAW members at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan have voted 76 percent to 24 percent in favor of a new contract.

The 1,399 to 509 vote in favor of the three-year agreement took place Sept. 9-13.

The contract, which covers 2,700 UAW-represented Blue Cross workers, includes 3 percent wage increases each year of the contract, an additional 3 percent automatic progression increase in each year for workers who are below their maximum pay grade, expanded tuition benefits, decreased prescription copays and increases in retirement benefits. UAW members also will receive a $2,500 ratification bonus.

"The bargaining team was able to protect not only the excellent benefits of members but maintain health insurance for current and future retirees," said UAW President Ron Gettelfinger.

"This agreement improves wages and benefits and it addresses the job security needs of our members," said UAW Vice President Jimmy Settles, who directs the Technical, Office and Professional Servicing Department. "Our members at Blue Cross will be able to realize economic improvements that are necessary to live in this time of rising prices and economic uncertainty."

The contract covers Michigan members of UAW Locals 2256 (Lansing), 1781 (Southfield), 2500 (Detroit) and 2145 (Grand Rapids).

The new agreement expires Aug. 31, 2011.