Dear Members:
We are writing to update you on the status of our discussions with MASSDOT regarding a new Collective Bargaining Agreement for Unit C and the Classification Study. Our negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement have been long and difficult. Our negotiations regarding the Classification Study have been longer and even more complicated and difficult.
Only recently has it become clear that we have made substantial progress in moving toward a fair resolution of these matters. We have, in fact, made more progress in the past two months than in the months and years before. While we have reached agreement on some issues, there are others that remain to be resolved. On a few of these unresolved issues, NAGE and MassDOT are far apart.
Our commitment is to continue to fight at the table until we can report back to you on a proposed overall settlement that is fair to all concerned. We are hoping that this will be soon.
As soon as we do achieve a tentative settlement, you will be notified immediately and in detail. The ultimate decision to accept or reject the tentative collective bargaining agreement will be made by you, the members.
We appreciate your patience and support as we continue to try to resolve these matters as quickly and fairly as we can.
In solidarity
NAGE Unit C Negotiation Committee
Mar 12, 2018
For Immediate Release
March 9, 2018
Getting or Renewing a Driver’s License, ID Card or Learner’s Permit?
Massachusetts RMV Announces New Requirements:
Lawful Presence and REAL ID
BOSTON - The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles is reminding the public that on March 26, 2018, to get or renew any driver's license, ID card, or learner's permit, customers will need documentation showing United States citizenship or lawful presence as required by federal and state law.
Lawful presence means that a person is legally living in the United States according to federal immigration laws. All United States citizens and lawfully permanent residents have permanent lawful presence in the U.S. Non-U.S. individuals who are studying, working, or living temporarily in the U.S. may have temporary lawful presence that may vary in length.
On March 26, customers will have the choice between a REAL ID Driver’s License or ID Card or a Standard Massachusetts Driver’s License or ID Card. REAL ID is a Federal Security Standard for IDs that was created in 2005 as a result of increased federal security measures after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
REAL ID will be available on March 26, 2018; however, people will not need a REAL ID until October of 2020. And if they have an active passport and don’t mind carrying it, they will never need a REAL ID. After October of 2020, citizens will need either a passport or REAL ID Massachusetts Driver’s License to fly in the United States, or to enter restricted areas of federal buildings. The Standard Massachusetts License or ID card will not be valid as a federal ID after October 2020.
“We encourage the public to review information on our website at mass.gov/id to learn what documents they must provide for the credential they seek,” said Registrar Erin Deveney. “In most cases, people will have the required documents on hand as these documents are regularly requested when a child starts school, when someone travels outside the country, or in order to get married.”
On March 26, 2018, individuals applying for Registry credentials are encouraged to start their applications online at mass.gov/rmv and answer a few questions to determine if they should choose a REAL ID driver’s license or ID or a Standard Driver’s license or ID, and exactly what identification documents are necessary for each. Customers who visit the RMV’s website will be able to print online applications or have an application that can be displayed on a mobile phone. The website tells customers exactly what to bring to complete the transaction and also directs AAA members to closest AAA offices for renewals. The online application includes a bar code that will be scanned to retrieve the customer’s information in the system to save time in line. Renewal customers requesting a standard card may be able to perform their renewal successfully online, without coming in person.
Before March 26, 2018: Customers can process renewals as usual: online or in person at an RMV Service Center or AAA Location (if they are a member). We encourage the public to renew early.
Lawful Presence Documentation
For U.S. citizens, a valid, unexpired U.S. passport is sufficient proof of lawful presence. U.S. citizens may also provide a certified copy of their U.S. birth certificate.
For permanent residents, a valid permanent resident card (green card) is sufficient proof of lawful presence.
For customers who are not U.S. citizens, valid, verifiable immigration documents as well as proof that they have been granted a legal stay in the U.S. for at least 12 months is required. Their license or ID will expire when their legal stay is over.
For Massachusetts Learner's Permit Holders, that were issued a learner’s permit prior to March 26, 2018 and have not passed a road test by March 26th, they will need to prove U.S. citizenship or lawful presence before receiving a driver’s license.
Drivers over the age of 75 seeking a REAL ID or a Standard driver's license or ID card, may begin their application online at mass.gov/rmv, but must present official required documentation in person to complete the renewal or issuance process, and pass a vision screening if obtaining a driver’s license. AAA members, can visit a AAA office to renew their driver's license or ID card.
Feb 08, 2018
Congratualtions to:
Erica Height, Local 3-005
Tiffany Myers, Local 1-207
Mark Guida, Local 1-292
Feb 07, 2018
A summary of the changes to take place are below:
The 2018 GIC Health Fair schedule is posted below. Please note that there will be thirteen fairs held across the commonwealth at multiple locations and different times to accommodate as many members schedules as possible.
If you cannot load the graphic, please click HERE.
Feb 02, 2018
Please vote for Theresa McGoldrick, "your" voice on the State Retirement Board!
Theresa McGoldrick is a National Executive Vice President of NAGE and President of Unit 6 /Local 207. McGoldrick is running for one of the two elected positions on the five-member board. The elected member will serve a three-year, uncompensated term which begins May 2018.
Please use the following link to view the Rules of Regular Election to the MA State Board of Retirement
Ballots will be sent out on Monday, February 5, 2018.
Ballots may be submitted via mail, telephone or electronic submission. Each eligible member is only able to submit one vote. Votes must be received in the manner and format specified in the ballot on or before March 16, 2018.
Feb 01, 2018
NAGE representatives attended the GIC meeting to hear the discussion before and after the vote. The commission first moved to vote on reconsidering their previous decision to eliminate Tufts, Fallon and Harvard Pilgrim as healthcare options for GIC subscribers. The vote was passed with 12 in favor and 2 against.
The outrage from Union Leaders and members alike led to the reconsideration of the GIC's decision. At the public hearings after the GIC's decision was announced, members turned out by the hundreds to express their anger and fear. One of the most prevalent statements that was taken to heart by the GIC was that many with preexisting conditions were afraid that they would lose their doctors with whom they have built relationships.
President Holway sent a public letter to GIC Executive Director Roberta Herman filled with words that hit close to home for so many across the Commonwealth (letter can be found HERE). President Holway's sentiments were further expressed at the GIC Oversight Hearing, where he was invited to share the concerns of NAGE members with the Senate. Testimony footage can be found HERE.
The commissioners were asked to vote on replacing Plan A - the reduced carrier plan that was voted through on the 18th, with Plan B, which included the options of Tufts, Fallon and Harvard Pilgrim for commercial subscribers. Plan B was voted through, allowing commercial subscribers to the GIC the options of Tufts, Fallon and Harvard Pilgrim along with Unicare, Health New England and Neighborhood Health Plan. You can view the outline of Plan B below.
We would like to thank the labor commissioners for standing strong on this issue from the beginning, and never ceasing to be a voice for our members.
Please see footage HERE from the two votes that took place this morning.
We will keep you updated as things progress with the votes on Plan Design and Rates.
NEWS
You can learn more about them in this video!
NEWS
Mass DOT Sends Employees to Aid in Washington, D.C. Snow RemovalEight members of Mass DOT Unit 3/C have been deployed to Washington, D.C. to assist local crews with snow and ice removal. The crews are expected to work through the weekend and journey home on Monday, February 1st. Washington, D.C. has recently acquired several new trucks to plow and salt the city, but the MA DOT employees are crucial to the snow and ice removal effort from the recent storm. Senator Elizabeth Warren posted her recognition of MA cleanup crews in DC on Facebook Tuesday night, “There’s a huge piece of equipment here in DC clearing the snow and shooting it into 18-wheelers to be hauled off – and it has Massachusetts plates!” We wish our local Mass DOT members a safe and successful operation, and thank them for contributing their time to help our nation’s capital.
Photo via Senator Warren's Facebook page
MassDOT Unit C MOU 2014 - 2017
MassDOT Unit C Incident Operations Break Policy
MassDOT Unit C MOU 2011 - 2014
We are writing to update you on the status of our discussions with MASSDOT regarding a new Collective Bargaining Agreement for Unit C and the Classification Study. Our negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement have been long and difficult. Our negotiations regarding the Classification Study have been longer and even more complicated and difficult.
Only recently has it become clear that we have made substantial progress in moving toward a fair resolution of these matters. We have, in fact, made more progress in the past two months than in the months and years before. While we have reached agreement on some issues, there are others that remain to be resolved. On a few of these unresolved issues, NAGE and MassDOT are far apart.
Our commitment is to continue to fight at the table until we can report back to you on a proposed overall settlement that is fair to all concerned. We are hoping that this will be soon.
As soon as we do achieve a tentative settlement, you will be notified immediately and in detail. The ultimate decision to accept or reject the tentative collective bargaining agreement will be made by you, the members.
We appreciate your patience and support as we continue to try to resolve these matters as quickly and fairly as we can.
In solidarity
NAGE Unit C Negotiation Committee
Mar 12, 2018
Mass RMV Service Announcement
The following information is being shared from the Registry of Motor Vehicles:- There will be no motor vehicle inspections in Massachusetts on March 23, 24, or 25.
- The Registry of Motor Vehicles is transitioning to a new technology which will mean that RMV service centers will be closed on March 23 and AAA locations will be unable to offer RMV services on March 23 and 24.
- RMV online services will be unavailable as of 7 p.m., Thursday March 22 and until 8 a.m., Monday, March 26.
- The below press release about RMV New Requirements: Lawful Presence and REAL ID
For Immediate Release
March 9, 2018
Getting or Renewing a Driver’s License, ID Card or Learner’s Permit?
Massachusetts RMV Announces New Requirements:
Lawful Presence and REAL ID
BOSTON - The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles is reminding the public that on March 26, 2018, to get or renew any driver's license, ID card, or learner's permit, customers will need documentation showing United States citizenship or lawful presence as required by federal and state law.
Lawful presence means that a person is legally living in the United States according to federal immigration laws. All United States citizens and lawfully permanent residents have permanent lawful presence in the U.S. Non-U.S. individuals who are studying, working, or living temporarily in the U.S. may have temporary lawful presence that may vary in length.
On March 26, customers will have the choice between a REAL ID Driver’s License or ID Card or a Standard Massachusetts Driver’s License or ID Card. REAL ID is a Federal Security Standard for IDs that was created in 2005 as a result of increased federal security measures after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
REAL ID will be available on March 26, 2018; however, people will not need a REAL ID until October of 2020. And if they have an active passport and don’t mind carrying it, they will never need a REAL ID. After October of 2020, citizens will need either a passport or REAL ID Massachusetts Driver’s License to fly in the United States, or to enter restricted areas of federal buildings. The Standard Massachusetts License or ID card will not be valid as a federal ID after October 2020.
“We encourage the public to review information on our website at mass.gov/id to learn what documents they must provide for the credential they seek,” said Registrar Erin Deveney. “In most cases, people will have the required documents on hand as these documents are regularly requested when a child starts school, when someone travels outside the country, or in order to get married.”
On March 26, 2018, individuals applying for Registry credentials are encouraged to start their applications online at mass.gov/rmv and answer a few questions to determine if they should choose a REAL ID driver’s license or ID or a Standard Driver’s license or ID, and exactly what identification documents are necessary for each. Customers who visit the RMV’s website will be able to print online applications or have an application that can be displayed on a mobile phone. The website tells customers exactly what to bring to complete the transaction and also directs AAA members to closest AAA offices for renewals. The online application includes a bar code that will be scanned to retrieve the customer’s information in the system to save time in line. Renewal customers requesting a standard card may be able to perform their renewal successfully online, without coming in person.
Before March 26, 2018: Customers can process renewals as usual: online or in person at an RMV Service Center or AAA Location (if they are a member). We encourage the public to renew early.
Lawful Presence Documentation
For U.S. citizens, a valid, unexpired U.S. passport is sufficient proof of lawful presence. U.S. citizens may also provide a certified copy of their U.S. birth certificate.
For permanent residents, a valid permanent resident card (green card) is sufficient proof of lawful presence.
For customers who are not U.S. citizens, valid, verifiable immigration documents as well as proof that they have been granted a legal stay in the U.S. for at least 12 months is required. Their license or ID will expire when their legal stay is over.
For Massachusetts Learner's Permit Holders, that were issued a learner’s permit prior to March 26, 2018 and have not passed a road test by March 26th, they will need to prove U.S. citizenship or lawful presence before receiving a driver’s license.
Drivers over the age of 75 seeking a REAL ID or a Standard driver's license or ID card, may begin their application online at mass.gov/rmv, but must present official required documentation in person to complete the renewal or issuance process, and pass a vision screening if obtaining a driver’s license. AAA members, can visit a AAA office to renew their driver's license or ID card.
Feb 08, 2018
Drawing Winners Are In!
Thank you for signing up for the new NAGE app! We are excited to make communicating with our members easier and more convenient.
The winner of out drawing have been pulled using a Random Name Picker.
Please see the results below!
Congratualtions to:
Erica Height, Local 3-005
Tiffany Myers, Local 1-207
Mark Guida, Local 1-292
*If you did not receive an email that your registration was verified on the app, but your application was in by close of business on Thursday 2/8, then you were still entered in the drawing!
Feb 07, 2018
GIC Update on Health Plans and 2018 Health Fairs
The Group Insurance Commission (GIC) met on Tuesday, February 6th and the outcome of the meeting was very positive. The GIC is taking the concerns of our members and other stakeholders very seriously in their considerations for the GIC Health Plans. Our labor comissioners Bobbi Kaplan, Margaret Thompson and Joe Gentile have provided tireless advocacy on behalf of our members, and the healthcare we all depend on. NAGE would also like to acknowledge YOU! The calls that members made to their state representaives and senators were incredibly important and caused the GIC to push through the reconsideration vote.A summary of the changes to take place are below:
- The six (6) carriers will offer a total of eleven (11) plans.
- Co-pays are now standardized across all carriers and all plans.
- There is no change in deductibles, except for the limited network plans. The deductibles for Unicare CC, HNE HMO, HPHC Primary Choice, Tufts Spirit and Fallon Direct (limited network plans) have been reduced to $400 for individuals and $800 for families. The deductables for NHP Prime will be remaining at $500 for individuals and $1000 for families.
- Co-pays for Tier III specialists in all plans have been reduced from $90 to $75.
- Co-pays for Telehealth will be $15 across all plans
- The out-of-pocket maximums for all plans will be $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for families. Unicare's out-of-pocket maximums have been changed to these amounts to reflect consistency across all plans.
The 2018 GIC Health Fair schedule is posted below. Please note that there will be thirteen fairs held across the commonwealth at multiple locations and different times to accommodate as many members schedules as possible.
If you cannot load the graphic, please click HERE.
Feb 02, 2018
NAGE Endorses Theresa McGoldrick for State Retirement Board
The National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) is endorsing Theresa McGoldrick for the State Retirement Board.Please vote for Theresa McGoldrick, "your" voice on the State Retirement Board!
Theresa McGoldrick is a National Executive Vice President of NAGE and President of Unit 6 /Local 207. McGoldrick is running for one of the two elected positions on the five-member board. The elected member will serve a three-year, uncompensated term which begins May 2018.
Please use the following link to view the Rules of Regular Election to the MA State Board of Retirement
Ballots will be sent out on Monday, February 5, 2018.
Ballots may be submitted via mail, telephone or electronic submission. Each eligible member is only able to submit one vote. Votes must be received in the manner and format specified in the ballot on or before March 16, 2018.
Feb 01, 2018
Union Pressure on GIC Results In Vote to Reverse Healthcare Decision
Earlier today, the GIC voted to reverse their decision of January 18th and will continue to offer Fallon, Tufts and Harvard Pilgrim health plans to NAGE members and other commercial subscribers! These options will be available alongside Unicare, Health New England and Neighborhood Health Plan.NAGE representatives attended the GIC meeting to hear the discussion before and after the vote. The commission first moved to vote on reconsidering their previous decision to eliminate Tufts, Fallon and Harvard Pilgrim as healthcare options for GIC subscribers. The vote was passed with 12 in favor and 2 against.
The outrage from Union Leaders and members alike led to the reconsideration of the GIC's decision. At the public hearings after the GIC's decision was announced, members turned out by the hundreds to express their anger and fear. One of the most prevalent statements that was taken to heart by the GIC was that many with preexisting conditions were afraid that they would lose their doctors with whom they have built relationships.
President Holway sent a public letter to GIC Executive Director Roberta Herman filled with words that hit close to home for so many across the Commonwealth (letter can be found HERE). President Holway's sentiments were further expressed at the GIC Oversight Hearing, where he was invited to share the concerns of NAGE members with the Senate. Testimony footage can be found HERE.
The commissioners were asked to vote on replacing Plan A - the reduced carrier plan that was voted through on the 18th, with Plan B, which included the options of Tufts, Fallon and Harvard Pilgrim for commercial subscribers. Plan B was voted through, allowing commercial subscribers to the GIC the options of Tufts, Fallon and Harvard Pilgrim along with Unicare, Health New England and Neighborhood Health Plan. You can view the outline of Plan B below.
We would like to thank the labor commissioners for standing strong on this issue from the beginning, and never ceasing to be a voice for our members.
Please see footage HERE from the two votes that took place this morning.
We will keep you updated as things progress with the votes on Plan Design and Rates.
NEWS
Video—NAGE Members Dig Out DC
Remember the news that several Massachusetts state workers volunteered to go to Washington, DC to help that city dig out after a massive snowstorm in late January? NAGE members were among that group of volunteers who braved the snow and shared their expertise with the people of our nation’s capital.You can learn more about them in this video!
NEWS
Mass DOT Sends Employees to Aid in Washington, D.C. Snow RemovalEight members of Mass DOT Unit 3/C have been deployed to Washington, D.C. to assist local crews with snow and ice removal. The crews are expected to work through the weekend and journey home on Monday, February 1st. Washington, D.C. has recently acquired several new trucks to plow and salt the city, but the MA DOT employees are crucial to the snow and ice removal effort from the recent storm. Senator Elizabeth Warren posted her recognition of MA cleanup crews in DC on Facebook Tuesday night, “There’s a huge piece of equipment here in DC clearing the snow and shooting it into 18-wheelers to be hauled off – and it has Massachusetts plates!” We wish our local Mass DOT members a safe and successful operation, and thank them for contributing their time to help our nation’s capital.
Photo via Senator Warren's Facebook page
MassDOT Unit C Contract Information
Unit C CBA July 1 2014 thru June 30 2017MassDOT Unit C MOU 2014 - 2017
MassDOT Unit C Incident Operations Break Policy
MassDOT Unit C MOU 2011 - 2014
| Leo W. Munroe President lmunroe@nage.org |
 |
| Michael Meehan Executive Vice President |
|
| Stanley Thompson Secretary/Treasurer |
|
| Tony Rezandes 1st Vice President MassDOT |
|
| Brian Farrington 2nd Vice President MassDOT |
|
| Mike Howland 1st Vice President DCR |
|
| Mike Ponyta 2nd Vice President DCR |
The American Labor Movement has consistently demonstrated its devotion to the public interest. It is, and has been, good for all America.
- John F. Kennedy
NAGE HEADQUARTERS
159 Burgin Parkway
Quincy, MA 02169
Main Phone: (617)376-0220
Main Fax: (617)984-5695
Quincy, MA 02169
Main Phone: (617)376-0220
Main Fax: (617)984-5695
Union Local Tax Issues
Federal law now requires that every local union file an annual information return—Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-N—with the IRS. If your local fails to file under this new requirement..
Read more