Budget Cuts, Concession Rumors, Contract Negotiations

The recent budget reductions of $105m imposed by the Governor have led to the inevitable concerns by many of our members regarding state employee concessions.  To be certain, there have been no concession discussions between the Unions and the State despite the chatter that is rippling.  It is clear that A&R has no desire to allow further erosion of our Pension or Healthcare benefits.  The current chatter relates to furloughs days (CTMirror Article 10/2/2015) and (Governor Malloy WFSB 10/5/2015) but absolutely nothing has been raised to the Unions.  Despite the larger budget discussions, these issues will not deter A&R from seeking to engage the State in our own contract bargaining.  The current State budget incorporates raises of 2.5% for employees for July 2016 - June 2017.  Further, several "language" issues within our contract need to be addressed, and that can only be done via direct negotiations with the state.  Budget problems are universal, cyclical, and common and shall not derail our goal of negotiating our contract with the State.

Judge Approves Rowland Layoff Lawsuit Settlement

The judge overseeing the Rowland Layoff case has approved the settlement.

More information to be posted.

Professional Development Seminar

Whole Foods: for a Healthier and More Energetic You is the topic of A&R's next Professional Development workshop.  In this workshop you will learn how a whole food diet can heal, transform, and energize your life.  You will not only gain knowledge about healthy eating but will also learn how to reduce stress in your life.  Enjoy the day among your Union brothers and sisters and learn how to treat yourself better.

When: November 2, 4, and 6 (Attend  1 day only)

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34th Annual Holiday Party

Join your Union brothers and sisters for good food, good spirit, and good company at A&R's 34th Annual Holiday Party.

  1. When: Friday, December 4th, 1:00 p.m.
  2. Where: Aqua Turf Club - Southington, CT
  3. Ticket Deadlines:
    • By mail - November 18th
    • Walk-Ins at A&R Office - November 24th 12:30 p.m.
    • SORRY NO CASH ACCEPTED via mail or walk-in

Info/Registration

We will again be collecting toys at the Annual Holiday Party.  The United Labor Agency will distribute the toys to union members who are unemployed or on strike.  See details on the registration form.

Lunch and Learn at DAS

A&R will be holding the next Lunch and Learn session at 165 Capital Avenue, in Hartford.  Lunch and Learn sessions are an opportunity for members to discuss workplace issues directly with Union leadership. Contract negotiations have just gotten underway. If you'd like to hear firsthand how negotiations are proceeding, please attend. We will be available to answer your questions.

Where: 165 Capitol Avenue, Hartford - room G38 A&B

When: Thursday December 3rd, 11:45 - 1:00pm

Sandwiches and beverages will be provided.