Teamster Tech Workers at Genesys Medical OK Contract
Technical workers at Flint-based Genesys Regional Medical Center voted 181-15 to approve a new four-year contract. The group, comprised of 280 licensed practical nurses, technicians, paramedics and EMTs, is represented by Teamsters Local 332 in Flint.
Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa praised the employees for continuing to work without a contract even though the hospital had refused any contract extensions after their previous contract expired on March 17.
"These workers are so dedicated to the well-being of their community, they put their patients first," Hoffa said. "I'm extremely proud of how these Teamsters stood strong together."
Nina Bugbee, President of Local 332, said the battle was tough but it was worth it.
"We got our workers the best contract we could in the worst economic climate," Bugbee said. "Sometimes it takes a village, sometimes it takes an army, but this time, it took the Teamsters. The local, the International, the members, the collective action of so many Teamster departments were instrumental."
"Through a combination of bargaining unit solidarity, strong leadership and innovative union proposals, the Teamsters created success out of a dire situation," said Michael Filler, director of the Teamsters Public Safety Division. "This agreement fairly balances the needs of our technical workers, the hospital and the community served by the Teamsters."
Among the contract's highlights was keeping the defined pension plan in place for employees ages 45 and older with at least 15 years of service. This group makes up 40 percent of the workforce, Bugbee said. Workers will retain the additional 2 percent annual raise in the contract.
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