January 2009 Vol. 11, No. 1

Vermont State Employees’ Association • 155 State Street, P.O. Box 518, Montpelier, VT 05601-0518 • Phone: (802) 223-5247 • Website: www.vsea.org

How Low Can Go? Now More Than Ever, State Keeps Cutting, Regardless Of Impact Your Voice Is Needed! Still reeling from the State’s 150 job cuts Management Commissioner Jim Reardon on June 30—and its subsequent 50+ job said the State did not want to identify the cuts as part of two recent budget rescission employees now, just in case circumstances plans—VSEA and many state employees were to change. Cummings reminded the are now warning that Vermont’s public JFC that it is difficult to approve a proposal services can’t be cut any deeper without when you don’t know what the impact is serious ramifications. They’re also caution- going to be after the cuts occur. Reardon ing that reduced staff levels are making it closed his remarks by admitting again VSEA members across the state nearly impossible in some agencies and (after months of denial) that it would be are urged to call, e-mail or visit your departments to adequately serve the grow- “disingenuous” of the State to deny that local legislators to remind them that ing number of Vermonters seeking advice these cuts would not have any impact on it’s wrong to rely solely on deep cuts and help during this difficult economic services. In a statement to the press, VSEA to programs, services and the work- time. General Counsel Michael Casey (who, force to pull Vermont out of this tough “This entire exercise, to date, has been at the time was serving as VSEA’s Interim economic downturn. Ask them why about cutting, cutting and more cutting,” Director) said: “Now that the State—after there isn’t more focus on the other VSEA Director Jes Kraus told WDEV in a months of denial—is finally acknowledg- side of this economic struggle, which December 18 radio interview about Ver- ing that its cuts will have an impact on is to find new revenue by researching mont’s budget crisis. “Vermont’s neediest services, Vermonters deserve honest an- every available option. Let them know populations and Vermont state employees swers about how the services they depend you support using VSEA’s alternatives are upset that so far we’ve had to bear all upon will be impacted. With the State’s (see page 3) if it will help preserve our the pain of the State’s budget cuts. VSEA additional 250 job cuts on the horizon, services, programs and jobs. If you are thinks it’s time now for our political lead- VSEA continues to call on the State, the unsure who your General Assembly ers and the State to begin considering Joint Fiscal Committee and the entire members are, go to: alternatives to cuts or ways to generate Legislature to provide—and require—a new revenue. Doing this would certainly detailed plan of who is being cut and what http://www.leg.state.vt.us/ help mitigate some of the adverse impact impact that specific employee’s vacancy legdir/legdir2.htm all these cuts are having on Vermonters will have on services.” and their public services.” Unfortunately, the bad economic news VSEA members are also urged to kept coming, and, on November 18 the write letters to the editors of your local Budget Rescission Proposals Add Up JFC met to hear from the JFO and the State newspapers and tell Vermonters what To More Pain For State Employees about the projected future of Vermont’s life is like at your workplace since all economy. As expected, the news was not these job cuts started coming down. If Economically, things went from bad to good. Vermont’s projected deficit for fiscal you have a story about how a particular worse in August 2008, when the State’s year 2009 was going to be approximately public service is suffering due to the Joint Fiscal Office (JFO) announced that $60 million; $37 million of which needed cuts, why not share it with Vermont- Vermont was facing a new $32 million to be addressed right away. To make up ers? To find an online listing of local budget shortfall. The remedy, State of- the $37 million deficit, the State was VT newspapers and their “letter to the ficials told the legislature’s 10-person recommending a host of new service and editor” links, go to: Joint Fiscal Committee (JFC) was to adopt program cuts, plus the elimination of even http://www.vsea.org/ its proposed rescission plan to make up more state employee jobs. send-letter-editor-your-local-paper the deficit by cutting 16 additional state The JFC met again on December 15 to employee jobs. begin debating the State’s latest budget With little debate, the JFC approved rescission proposal, but it had been pared Most important, share this the State’s proposal. However, prior to down to just $19.7 million because the voting on the proposal, JFC member Sen. State and the JFC were only able to agree message with your (D-Washington) asked in principle on that amount of cuts. Still, co-workers, friends the State to identify the 16 state employee the rescission proposal called for the positions it wanted to cut, but Finance and elimination of 35 more state employee and family!!! Continued on page 4 Letters to the Editor

Ed Note: The following letters were culled from Vermont newspapers. Both are from VSEA members, regarding state and national issues. The VSEA VOICE is an official publication of the Appeared in the 12/18 Rutland Herald Appeared in the 11/24 Times Argus VERMONT STATE EMPLOYEES’ ASSOCIATION, INC.

Reject Draconian State Why Pay Health 155 State Street, P.O. Box 518 Montpelier, Vermont 05601-0518 Budget Cuts Insurance Firms? Phone: (802) 223-5247 Fax: (802) 223-4035 As you know the state is facing a terrible Health Insurance costs skyrocketing... E-mail: [email protected] problem. You’ve heard people saying that has anyone else ever wondered why in the $64 million must be cut to balance the world we are paying insurance companies? The VSEA Voice is published quarterly by Vermont State Employees’ Association, Inc. VSEA is a state budget so that your taxes don’t have Why are we paying a middleman for our nonprofit labor organization, owned and run to be raised. You’ve heard people saying health care. Insurance companies are for by members. Letters published in the Voice are the state has to be responsible and share profit, and “profit margins” are their bottom the opinion of the writer and do not necessarily the financial pain that you are feeling. This line, not our health and well being. reflect the views of VSEA. Final determination of Voice content will be the decision of the Director. sounds sympathetic, but unfortunately, is The CEOs of these insurance companies Paid advertising published in the newspaper does the wrong thing to do. are making all the profit while offering not necessarily constitute an endorsement. The If the state gets its way, entire programs their employees low wages, with few if any VSEA assumes no responsibility for any claims will be cut; more Vermonters will be unem- benefits. Seems pretty simple to me: Cut or representations made on goods or services ployed, and will need the very government out the fat, cut the insurance companies. offered in paid advertisements. All submissions to, inquiries about, and comments regarding services it used to provide. Think about the We all pay huge premiums to be told by the Voice should be directed to the VSEA HQ, ways that you depend on the state, from some insurance employee which drugs [email protected] keeping your roads and communities safe, we can have and those decisions depend to helping in your times of need with food, on the kickbacks they receive from the VSEA BOARD OF TRUSTEES OFFICERS housing, health care or employment, or drug companies, not whether or not the President: William Harkness; VSP, Bethel simply obtaining licenses and registra- drug works for you. They dictate which 1st Vice-President: Robert Hooper; DCF, Burlington tions. Think about how the state provides operations you can have - in general they 2nd Vice-President: Lucas Herring; BISHCA, Montpelier for your children’s’ education, and assists decide what health care you get or don’t Treasurer: Dave Turner; Corrections, St. Albans the disabled and elderly. get. Who are they? Personally I think those Clerk: Ruth Leithead; VSH, Waterbury TRUSTEES (UNIT & DISTRICT) It is not true that if these cuts aren’t decisions should be made between you Non-Management Unit: Seth Perry; AOT, Ludlow made, your taxes will go up. Facing this and your doctors. Supervisory Unit: Goldie Watson, VSH, Waterbury problem does not have to mean tax in- If we took the millions of dollars paid to Corrections Unit: David Bellini; Corrections, creases. Not only because you can’t afford insurance companies for health insurance South Burlington State Police Unit: Gary Shuhart; VSP, Rutland more taxes, but because tax increases will and instead helped finance our hospitals State Colleges Unit: Janis Henderson; LSC, Lyndon undo any effort to stimulate the economy and doctors I think we would be getting a Combined Units: Chris Frappier; DG, Burlington and end the recession. Likewise, draco- much better return for our dollar. Social- District #1: Kit Andrews; DOC, Barre nian cuts will only make the recession ized medicine? Why not, we all wait for District #2: Dave Clark; AHS, Waterbury deeper. care now, some of us are dying before we District #3: Tim Simoneau; DOC, Newport District #4: Terry Lefebvre; VDOH, Burlington Please contact your legislators and the get to see a doctor, if we can find one, District #5: Linda Bunker; DCF, Middlebury governor. Tell them to use the rainy day some folks are dying in the emergency District #6: Mike Orticari; AOT, WRJ fund, and Vermont’s unique ability to bor- rooms through neglect and some can’t get Past President: Ed Stanak row. Tell them to close the capital gains tax a doctor to take new patients. Seems the VSEA STAFF loophole that makes you pay higher taxes complaints here in the U.S. are about the Director: Jes Kraus than the rich. Ask them to stop outsourcing same as in Canada. Get smart, get rid of Executive Asst. to Director: Terry Macaig state services to temps and contractors. the middleman here. General Counsel: Mike Casey If the governor wants to share your pain, Catamount Health is a good example of Staff Attorney: Abigail Doolittle ask him to forego his entourage of media a waste of time and money - all that effort Field Services Supervisor: Gary Hoadley Field Reps: Lucinda Kirk Marty Raymond spokesmen and his $14,000 meal perk. to set up that program and now Vermonters Chris Tfeike Peter Garon If we raise our voices and Montpelier can’t afford it. Not enough “profit” margin? Kathi Partlow listens, we can weather this crisis. If not, I say smarten up and dump the insurance Administrative Asst’s: Katie Boyd; Ayla Hudson; you can count on things getting even companies, send the premiums directly to Sylvie Rivard Fiscal Coordinator: Chad Wawrzyniak worse. the hospitals and doctors. I’ll pay a portion Organizing/Training Coordinator: Gretchen Naylor of my income in taxes to finance health Legislative Coordinator: Conor Casey Arthur Hamlin care, and I think we’d all be way ahead of Legislative Assistant: Taryn Moran Braintree the game. We need another way to finance Communications Coordinator: Doug Gibson health care and paying “for profit” insur- Unless otherwise credited, material appearing in ance companies isn’t the way. this news-magazine is the property of Vermont State Employees’ Association, Inc. VSEA headquarters: 155 Bonnie Kynoch State Street, Montpelier, VT 05602. Copyright © 2009 Montpelier Vermont State Employees’ Association, Inc. Printed in Vermont, the United States of America. 2 job cut alternatives VSEA’s Suggested Ways To Generate Revenue That Don’t Include Cutting More State Employee Jobs And Services

TAP VERMONT’S For example, you buy a business or Through a public records request, VSEA stock for $3 million and hold it for 20 learned in 2007 that the State spent more RAINYDAY FUND! years; you then sell it for $8 million; some than $100 million in 2006 to contract of the increase is inflation but on the other with private vendors like the one that ran hand you haven’t paid tax on that during this year’s flu clinics. Meanwhile,the State those 20 years so it’s a wash. spent approximately $11 million in 2006 Unlike regular wage & salary income, to employ temporary workers to perform where you pay tax on the first dollar (af- state services. ter the personal exemption & standard VSEA contends that if the State was to deduction), Vermont currently excludes cut back its use of private contractors and the first 40% of the capital gain from temporary employees by a mere 5 to 10 tax [note that the federal tax on long- percent, tens of millions of taxpayer dol- term cap gains is only 15% while the top lars would be saved and dozens of critical rate for income is almost 40%!!]; so in public services would be protected and the example cited above, the taxpayer made whole again. Budget stabilization or “Rainy Day” realized a $5 million gain; but instead Funds allow states like Vermont to set of paying tax on $5 million, he/she only aside excess revenue for use in times of pays tax on $3 million (only a handful of GOVERNOR’S PERKS unexpected revenue shortfall or budget states do this). deficit. In 2007, legislative and State leaders When last checked, Vermont’s Rainy said that closing Vermont’s capital gain tax Day Funds totaled more than $80 mil- loophole would generate an estimated $20 lion. VSEA believes this money should be million in new revenue for Vermont. That’s used now to buffer the State’s finances and a lot of state employee jobs! prevent even more and deeper cuts to State services and employees. As VSEA members know all too well, it’s PRIVATE CONTRACTORS & not only raining in Vermont, it’s pouring! TEMPORARY EMPLOYEES CLOSE VERMONT’S CAPITAL GAINS LOOPHOLE FOR THE RICH

While public services and state em- ployee jobs are being cut, Vermont’s Governor ’ salary increase at a rate much faster than the average working Vermonters. In fact, Douglas’ $150,000+ salary makes him the nation’s tenth high- est paid governor. Keep in mind, Vermont is the nation’s 49th largest state. Seven Days reporter Shay Totten also The State’s use of private contractors uncovered recently that Douglas receives (sometimes out-of-state contractors) and a $54 meal allowance, five days a week, temporary workers has grown a lot over 52 weeks a year. That adds up to $14,040 the past seven years. Recent evidence of — just shy of what a Vermont minimum- this problem is the State’s 2008 flu shot wage worker earns in a year ($15,662). clinic program, which until this year had It’s also the rough equivalent of a VSEA member’s yearly benefit package. A capital gain is income from the ap- always been conducted by state employ- ees. But after VDOH informed the State in If state employees and services are be- preciated value of an asset (stocks, bonds, ing sacrificed due to Vermont’s economic a business, art, etc.; not including primary May 2008 that, because of staffing issues, they couldn’t operate the clinics this year, downturn, why isn’t Governor Douglas of- residences); while income (if any) from fering to share in this sacrifice by forfeiting such assets is taxed along the way, the the service was contracted out to a private company based in New Hampshire. his meal stipend or refusing pay increases increased value is not taxed until the point (like former Gov. did). of sale. 3 job cuts

Job Cuts Lawmakers will take up the additional The “Master List” can be found at: Continued from page 1 budget shortfall when they assemble on January 7, 2009, to begin the new legisla- http://www.leg.state.vt.us/jfo/Appro- jobs. This time around, the JFC invited tive session. priations/Master%20List%20of%20Re- the public to comment on the cuts prior VSEA estimates that, already, Vermont’s duction%20Ideas%2012-17-08.pdf to a vote. state workforce has been reduced by 6-7 The neediest Vermonters, their advo- percent since the State first acknowledged Or, you can log on to www.vsea.org cates, VSEA members and many citizens our tanking economy in November 2007. and find the list there as well. The propos- packed the State House on December 16 als that directly impact state employees and 17 for two days of compelling testi- “Master List” Released. can be found on page 2 of the list. mony about the need for public services Nothing Is Final! during times of economic downturn. Details Forthcoming About The VSEA Director Jes Kraus testified on be- Just hours after the initial $19.7 million State’s Next 250 “Position half of the union about the adverse impact proposal was released to the public, VSEA Reduction Exercise” of continued cuts to services, programs and some members of the press were ask- and jobs. ing why the State wasn’t releasing all of its As the VOICE was going to print, there “[The proposal’s] details do not bode proposals to achieve the full $37 million was little to no information available from well for the neediest Vermonters, espe- budget reduction. the State about the next wave of 250 job

VSEA Director Jes Kraus warns the legislature’s Joint Fiscal As Kraus testified, these VSEA members stood with him in Committee in December about the adverse impact of even solidarity. more cuts. cially those who depend on the State’s In a Burlington Free Press story, VSEA cuts that are coming soon. The 250 ad- child care, employment, health care and Director Jes Kraus criticized the State for ditional job cuts complete the State’s 400 mental health services,” warned Kraus. failing to initially make public all its ideas “position reduction exercise” that began “Unfortunately, it looks like these critical to save money. “The [State] isn’t showing in June 2008. services will suffer even deeper and more us the entire $37 million,” he said. “I think “VSEA still believes that with all the detrimental cuts. This is very bad news Vermonters deserve to know what is in job cuts being made by the State outside for all Vermonters.” While Kraus testi- store for their public services.” of this particular ‘exercise,’ it will be vir- fied, more than a dozen VSEA members Soon afterward—in response to VSEA tually impossible for it cut an additional in attendance stood silently in a show of and others’ inquiries—the State did release 250 job cuts in the mandated time frame solidarity. a “Master List of [Budget] Reduction Ideas” just by not filling jobs left vacant through Kraus also told the committee that VSEA that could be considered to reach the $37 attrition and retirement,” says VSEA Direc- was disappointed the State was continuing million. The list includes a myriad of bud- tor Kraus. “VSEA and its members will be to dismiss the idea of tapping the State’s get reduction ideas, including several that scrutinizing the list very closely, once it’s Rainy Day Funds to help alleviate some of would directly impact state employees’ officially released.” Vermont’s economic pain. wages, benefits and work hours. Ideas for On the upside, at a November 13 meet- “The situation facing Vermont today is the list were generated by both the State ing of the legislature’s newly created “Gov- exactly why the Rainy Day Funds were and Joint Fiscal Committee members. ernment Accountability Committee”—part created,” said Kraus. “How long can the “These are just ideas right now and of whose charge is to monitor the State’s State avoid using these funds to buffer nothing more,” cautioned VSEA Direc- job cutting process—Secretary of the Ad- Vermont’s sagging economy and protect tor Jes Kraus. “But I urge VSEA members ministration Neale Lunderville reassured our critical services? Time is running out— to read through the list and pay special the committee that “no one will lose their and quickly.” attention to the proposals that pertain to job” as a result of the next round of 250 Despite the testimony, letters, phone state employees.” job cuts. calls and all other communiqués, on December 19, the JFC signed off on the State’s budget cutting package, voting to keep it largely intact. 4 JOB CUTS VSEA Members Rally In Montpelier Against Job Cuts

On September 12, more than 100 sign-toting VSEA members lined State Street in front of the Pavilion Building in Montpelier to rally against the State’s 400 job cuts. For 45 minutes, members chanted loudly and held signs that said things like: “My Back Hurts From Balancing The Budget,” “Where’s The Plan?” “Forget The Bone, We’re Down To The Marrow,” and many other things. The demonstration received good television coverage on WCAX and WPTZ. VSEA thanks everyone who participated in the rally. If you want to be contacted about— or involved in—a future VSEA action, please contact your Chapter president or VSEA Organizing Coordinator Gretchen Naylor at [email protected], or by phone at 223-5247.

VSEA members Helen and John Cross let VSEA members Shelley Martin and Sue VSEA AOT members Jerry Comstock their signs do the talking. Baird protest in front of the Pavilion and Bernie Peters send a message Building. More than 100 VSEA members to Montpelier and all Vermonters rallied in September against the State’s concerned about the state’s crumbling 400 job cuts. roads and bridges.

The VSEA rally stretched from the …all the way up State Street and around Many people walking past the VSEA Vermont Supreme Court Building… the corner of Gov. Davis Way to the demonstration stopped to inquire about Pavilion Building’s front doors. the issue and to voice their support for state employees.

Left – (right), VSEA’s endorsed candidate for Governor, stands side by side on the picket line with VSEA member Tim Cropley.

Right – VSEA members like Terry Lefebvre (center, hat) and those around her chanted their frustration with the way the State has implemented its job cuts.

5 RIF Rights Know Your Reduction-In-Force Rights!

Ed Note: The VOICE is running this important information as a way to help educate VSEA members about their contractual rights in the event of a State reduction in the workforce. Please review the information so you are better prepared for new rounds of State job cuts. As always, this information is available every day on the VSEA website (www.vsea.org).

Note: When the State of Vermont lays off any of “above average” ratings with a three (3) I. What is the effective date of layoff? their State employees, here are the rules that come year period will be separated last. The effective date of layoff is your last day of into play. 6. Employees who have five (5) or more work. years of continuous State service will A. What is accomplished by the reduction in force be separated last. This is based solely on J. What are recall rights? / re-employment (recall) rights articles in your seniority. • Recall Rights are mandatory rights to a collective bargaining agreement? permanent classified position with State • The contract establishes a fair and equi- F. Can you “bump” other employees with less government. table system for determining the order of seniority? • Recall Rights begin thirty (30) days before layoffs. The contract provisions on displacement your last day of work and continue for two • Both seniority and past performance are (“bumping”) are confusing, and we encourage years. factors which management must take into our members to discuss these questions with • Recall Rights mean that you have manda- account when identifying the affected their steward or field representative. All deter- tory rights (based on seniority on the recall employees. minations on displacement options are made list) to position vacancies which manage- • Seniority is the only factor for employees by the Department of Human Resources after ment intends to fill. with at least five (5) years continuous State extensive review of all the issues such as senior- • The position vacancy must fall within service. ity and vacancies. Employees have five calendar your pay grade or lower; you must meet days to exercise their bumping rights. the minimum qualifications and you must B. When layoffs are necessary, who determines In brief, the following displacement path is have indicated your willingness to work which job titles will be affected? followed: in such a position through the parameters • The individual department (appointing 1. Vertical and horizontal displacement rights you set up with the Department of Human authority) makes the determination. will apply within a series of classes and Resources. • VSEA receives five (5) days prior notice within a department and within a 35-mile • “Mandatory Rights” means that manage- and is given the opportunity to discuss geographic area. ment has to offer you the position, not that alternatives. 2. Employees will first be notified of any you have to accept the position. You are displacement options within their job entitled to three (3) offers of reemployment C. Who determines the order of layoff? class, i.e. bumping less senior employees following the effective date of layoff. • The Department of Human Resources in in the department and within the 35-mile • Recall Rights do not extend to promotional Montpelier determines which employee(s) geographic area. opportunities, which you should monitor in the affected class(es), or series, will be 3. Employees will next be notified of horizon- and pursue on your own. laid off. tal options (associated classes) for which • The order of separation is controlled by the laid-off employee has pre-registered. K. What if you were previously laid off from a the contract. 4. Employees will also be notified of vertical higher pay grade? displacement options within the approved If you receive a RIF notice, and you were laid D. What if there are vacancies in your department series of vertical displacement; first dis- off from a higher pay grade position within the or agency, will you still be laid off? placing the most junior employee in the preceding two years, you will have recall rights If vacancies exist in your department or agency next lower series. to jobs at the higher pay grade. which management intends to fill, at the same 5. Employees are then offered options to dis- or a lower pay grade and if you meet the mini- place (in this order) original probationers L. What are re-employment parameters? How do mum qualifications and can do the job, you will in permanent or limited service positions, you set them? be offered that position in accordance with the provisional employees, or temporary Re-employment Parameters, set by the em- recall provisions of the contract. employees who fill positions at the same ployee, spell out the types of work, hours and or lower pay grade when you meet the geographic areas that the employee will con- E. What is the order of layoff? minimum qualifications for the position. sider for re-employment. An employee on recall A RIF is accomplished on a geographic basis NOTE: A list of vertical classes within series is status is required to notify the Department of by class, series, and department. A geographic maintained as part of the contract. It is updated Human Resources of these parameters before basis is that area within a 35-road mile radius quarterly. they will make any re-employment offer to the of the positions regular duty station. The order employee. Call Human Resources to establish is as follows: G. What is your status if you displace a temporary your parameters as soon as possible following 1. Employees with less than three (3) years employee? your notice of layoff. continuous State service who have a cur- You will retain your recall rights and Health The parameters that you set limit your man- rent annual rating of “Unsatisfactory”. Insurance Benefits as described below. datory re-employment offers to jobs that you 2. Employees in their first year of service. find acceptable. You will only be offered jobs This is based upon their end of probation H. How will you be notified of your layoff? that fall within the parameters you set. To set evaluation. You will be notified, in writing, by your depart- parameters you must specify the following: 3. Employees who have received only one ment or agency at least thirty (30) calendar days • Geographic area; annual evaluation. This is based upon prior to the effective date. This notice will advise • Pay grade range (from your current pay ratings. you of the following: grade and lower); 4. Employees who have received only two a) to file an updated employment applica- • Type of work you are seeking (titles or annual evaluations. This is based upon tion with the Department of Human more general); ratings. Resourcesl; • Status of work you will consider (full-time, 5. Employees with more than three (3) years b) to define your reemployment parameters part-time, permanent, limited); but less than five (5) years of continu- (explained below); • Hours of work (shifts). ous State service will then be separated. c) to schedule a personal interview, if you You may restrict your availability further, if you Layoffs will be based upon seniority with wish, to discuss reemployment opportuni- desire, by specifying particular departments or consideration given to performance rat- ties; fields in which you will accept offers. ing evaluations. Those employees with d) to inform you of any vertical bumping This does not exclude you from pursuing, under rights you might have. the recall article, other positions outside the 6 RIF Rights

parameters you set up. Declining positions 2. If you accept a displacement offer (mean- 2. Employees in their original probationary outside your parameters do not count against ing that you “bump” another employee) periods; you. into one or two lower pay grades, your 3. Employees with less than 3 years com- salary will be treated as a voluntary demo- bined Limited Status or Permanent Sta- M. How do recall rights work? tion and will be red circled (held at your tus. Starting thirty (30) days before your last day current rate). If you bump three or more of work, you are eligible for mandatory rehire pay grades your salary will be treated as X. Any other questions? rights to vacancies in State government that a voluntary demotion and subject to a Check with your worksite steward, or call your management intends to fill, and for which you reduction in pay (not less than 1.5% and VSEA Field Representative at VSEA HQ, (802) are eligible and fall within the reemployment then downward slotting) and subject to 223-5247. parameters that you have set with the Depart- the maximum of the grade to which you ment of Human Resources. are reemployed (Refer to Salaries & wages Document Revised: 4/22/08; RIF info has been Once you have set your employment param- Article, Section 12 (a) and (b). posted on VSEA website (www.vsea.org). eters, any job offers you turn down will count ANNUAL LEAVE: When you are laid off, you as a “strike” against your three offers. You must will be paid off for a maximum of 20 days (160 accept a third offer or lose your mandatory re- hours) of Annual Leave (provided you have call rights. You will be offered jobs only within that amount in your leave balance). Up to 10 the parameters you have set. days (80 hours) may be retained by you, to be Layoffs and Note: If you receive a call at home from a re-credited if you are rehired within four (4) department asking if you are interested in a months after you are laid off. If you are reem- Permanent Part-Time job, you may assume that they have been told ployed within 2 years you will accrue leave at by the Department of Human Resources that the rate applicable to your years of service. Employees you are on recall status, meet the minimum See Section 13 of the “Reemployment Rights” qualifications and have rights to the job. You Article of the contract for more details. are entitled to receive all job offers in writing. The Contract states that, “Perma- You have five (5) work days from the date that R. Are you entitled to unemployment compensa- you actually receive the written notice of the tion while on recall status? nent part-time employees shall not offer to decline the offer. Yes. Apply by calling the Unemployment Claims be included with permanent full-time Center toll free line 1-800-983-2300. Although N. Can you lose your recall rights? the Dept of Labor Career Resource Centers can employees for the purpose of layoff Yes, under the following conditions: not help you in filing an unemployment claim, 1. Decline three offers of reemployment. DOL staff can assist you in re-employment selection.” Failure to respond to a written offer within services. This means that the employing five work days constitutes a refusal. 2. If you inform the Department of Human S. Does the department of Human Resources department or agency may treat part- Resources that you are unavailable for monitor local hires of each department? work. Recall Rights may be “frozen” if you All departments must check with the Depart- time employees as a separate class are physically unable to accept work. ment of Human Resources to determine if there 3. If you fail to set your employment pa- are any eligible RIF employees who have rights and therefore can choose to layoff the rameters and update your employment to the job before filling a vacancy. part-time employees either before or application with Human Resources Note: You can accept a Limited Service position T. Can a department decide not to fill a va- after the full-time position class layoffs. without forfeiting your remaining mandatory cancy? offers; however, if you accept a limited position Yes, a department may withdraw a vacancy at If, however, the department/agency on your last offer, you will no longer have RIF any time. rights. Acceptance of a limited position counts chooses to lay off part-time position as one offer. U. What happens if you cannot do the job you classes first, the order for layoff within accept under the recall rights provisions in the O. Can you accept a job outside of state govern- contract? the part-time employee group would ment without forfeiting your recall rights? • If an employee is re-employed under recall Yes, provided that the Department of Human rights, and later decides that (s)he cannot still go by seniority and the other Resources has been notified that you are avail- perform the duties of the position, (s)he factors as applicable outlined in the able for a State position that falls within your can resign and have the opportunity to go reemployment parameters. back on recall status. You will have only Contract for layoff selection. rights to the remaining time (limited up to P. Can you maintain insurance coverage if on two (2) years and number of recall offers However, once layoff has occurred, recall status? that are left). Yes, you can retain your health insurance cover- • If you accept an offer of re-employment in any part-time employee can set their age at the 80-20% co-payment rate for the first a new agency or department you will be employment parameters for any per- six pay periods after you are laid-off. After that, placed in a 90-day probationary period. you must arrange to pay the entire premium, If you do not successfully complete the manent full-time or part-time state on a bi-weekly or monthly basis, in order to probationary period, your Recall Rights maintain coverage. will be reinstated as if you had never ac- position. This means that once a part- cepted the position. time employee is on the layoff list—and Q. What will you receive for pay and benefits once you are reemployed by the state pursuant to V. What if you refuse to bump another employee if that employee opts to compete for the recall provisions of the contract? out of a job -- do you have recall rights? PAY: You will receive the same salary you were Yes. You are not required to displace another full-time State positions—that part- receiving at the time of layoff plus any negoti- employee even if that option is offered to ated salary increases, provided, however: you. time employee would be in the same 1. If you accept a job in a lower pay grade, re-employment pool, based on quali- you cannot make more than the maximum W. Which employees do not have recall rights? salary (Step 15) of the pay grade to which 1. Employees who do not have permanent fications and seniority, as any full-time you are reemployed; status and/or who do not occupy a clas- sified position in State government; position.

7 VSEA Annual Meeting 2008

More than 100 VSEA members from Budget Changes award acknowledges a VSEA member for across Vermont were at the Capitol Plaza outstanding contributions or actions that Hotel in Montpelier on September 13 to The membership approved a 30-cent directly or indirectly promote the positive attend the union’s 64th Annual Meeting. dues increase per paycheck (bi-weekly) image of VSEA and/or public employees. In addition to voting on several bylaw that became effective November 6, Martin constantly promotes VSEA posi- changes, the members also supported 2008. The additional revenue will cover tively to members and the public, and she the VSEA Council and Board of Trustees’ increased operating expenses, such as: is a top recruiter of new businesses for the recommendation to endorse Independent utilities; taxes; maintenance; insurances; union’s Advantage Discount Program. She Anthony Pollina in the race for governor. postage and phones; incremental in- is an administrative assistant with the De- This year’s Annual Meeting banquet creases associated with personnel; as well partment of Environmental Conservation. featured a keynote address by newly ap- as program initiatives to strengthen union pointed Secretary of Administration, Neale bargaining and legislative initiatives. Steward of the Year Lunderville, who told the crowd that he operates differently from his predecessor Mazza Award and that VSEA would be invited into his of- fice to discuss ways to work better together to arrive at similar goals. But Lunderville, who was good natured about the irony of him being selected to address a VSEA gathering, did admit that there would probably still be areas where there would be disagreement. Here is a summary of substantive changes made at this year’s VSEA Annual Meeting:

Bylaw Changes Terry Lefebvre was awarded the “Stew- ard of the Year” Award for her dedicated At the VSEA Annual Meeting, several Monte Mason (above) was awarded the and unwavering advocacy for VSEA changes were made to the Master Articles “Mazza” Award, which is named for past members at worksites throughout the of Association and Bylaws. The following VSEA President Frank Mazza. The award Chittenden Chapter. Lefebvre (left, shown were approved: acknowledges a VSEA member who has here receiving her award from Janis Hen- served VSEA through their time and efforts derson, who is a member of the VSEA • Article 3 was amended to ensure that helping to achieve the goals of improved Awards Committee). Lefebvre is financial only a dues paying member may be a wages, benefits and working conditions resources coordinator with the Vermont candidate for VSEA elected office; for VSEA members. Mason is a diehard Department of Health. • Bylaw 1 was changed so that VSEA trade unionist and is always actively try- Trustee election ballots will not be ing to educate people on the importance Chapter of the Year sent if a seat is uncontested. This of “buying American” and belonging to a change is expected to save VSEA union. He is an electrical inspector with members two thousand dollars the DPS’s Division of Fire Safety. in ballot mailing and preparation costs; Macaig Award • Bylaw 11 was amended to add the Judicial Board to the list of commit- tees eligible for release time under the collective bargaining contracts; • Bylaw 19 had language added to en- sure confidentiality of cases before The Waterbury Chapter was awarded the Judicial Board by members of the the “Chapter of the Year” Award for the Board. A new section was added to proactive way its members are engaged the bylaw that requires the Judicial in both their union and the community. Board Chair to file an annual meet- Pictured here receiving the award from ing report regarding the number of VSEA First Vice President Bob Hooper (far cases heard by the Board and the left) are Waterbury Chapter officers (left disposition of them; and to right): President Shelley Martin, Vice • The Supervisory, State Police, Judi- President Tracey Harrington, Treasurer Tim cial and the State Colleges Units all Cropley and Secretary Vicki Conti. added language to their bylaws to allow the Units to elect their officers Shelley Martin was awarded the and bargaining teams for either one- “Macaig” Award, which is named for year or two-year terms. past VSEA President Terry Macaig. The 8 VSEA Annual Meeting 2008

Legislator of the Year Operations Committee; a key committee Coan Award for hearing and advancing VSEA issues and Every year, VSEA awards a “Legislator concerns. After receiving his award, Con- of the Year” Award to a member(s) of the dos remarked to the banquet crowd that he state legislature who has been a leader on will miss working with the VSEA member- VSEA issues and who has worked with the ship and he thanked VSEA members for the union to help advance our causes. hard work they do every day. Special Recognition Award

VSEA Legislative Coordinator Conor Casey received the “Linda Coan” Award— and a hug—from Janis Henderson, who is a member of the VSEA Awards Committee. Longtime VSEA Director Annie Noonan, The award, which is named to honor the Outgoing Senator Jim Condos (D- who resigned from her position earlier in memory of VSEA staffer Linda Coan, is Chittenden County) was awarded VSEA’s 2008, was presented with a “Special Recog- presented annually to a VSEA staff member “Legislator of the Year” Award for his his- nition” Award for her 28 years of dedicated deemed to be performing “outstanding” toric dedication to fighting to ensure Ver- service to the union. Pictured here presenting work for VSEA members. mont workers were treated fairly and were her with the award is VSEA President Bill receiving the economic and social justice Harkness, who echoed many VSEA member’s they have earned. Condos announced in feelings when he told the crowd, “Annie will the fall of 2008 that he was retiring from the be dearly missed.” An emotional Noonan legislature and would not be running for thanked VSEA members for their support re-election. For many years, Condos was and dedication and encouraged everyone chairperson of the Senate’s Government to continue fighting the good fight. VSEA Special Events Committee Thanks Annual Meeting Vendors And Prize Donators The VSEA Special Events Committee VSEA Chapters – Prize Donation Hampton Inn – wishes to thank the following vendors, Gift Certificate For 1 Night’s Lodging Chapters and members for contributing Addison – Basket of Local Vermont Products Kathy Henry, Chittenden Chapter Member – money and prizes to help make the 2008 Central Vermont – (3) $40 Gas Cards Mary Kay Cosmetic Products VSEA Annual Meeting a great success! Chittenden – (2) $50 Door Prizes Kathy Henry, Chittenden Chapter Member – Franklin/Grand Isle – Gas Cards Basket Of Award-Winning Jams Vendors Newport/Island Pond – Nelson’s Fudge Ruthie’s Cakes (Ruth Leithead, VSH Chapter) – St. Johnsbury/NEK – (2) $25 Prizes Pedestal Cake Plate & Cake Gift Certificate CIGNA Vermont State Hospital – 1 Portable DVD Milne Travel – $100 Gift Certificate Towards Delta Dental Player & 1 Gas Card Selected Motor Coach Tour Employee Assistance Program Waterbury – (4) $50 Prizes Pizza Putt – Gift Certificate Express Scripts White River Junction – (4) $25 Gas Cards Tony Pike – 1 Pint & 2 Quarts Maple Syrup Great West R. K. Tongue (Joanne Woodcock) – Friday Liberty Mutual Business/Member – Door Prize Donation Night Entertainment Sponsorship ($1200) R.K. Tongue Insurance * Sambels Restaurant – (2) $50 Gift Certificates Vermont State Employees Credit Union * Credit Union of Vermont Sutton River Electrical – Energy Efficient Capital Stationary – 1 Stationary Set Light Bulbs/Tool * Added thanks for your meeting sponsorship East Side Restaurant – Uncle Mike’s Deli – (3) Gift Certificates 2-Person Buffet Gift Certificate VSECU – Luncheon Sponsorship ($750) Fuller Family Farms (Lisa Fuller, VSH Chapter) – 1 Gallon Maple Syrup 9 Flu Shots State Outsources 2008 Flu Clinics To Out-Of-State, Private Vendor For the first time in recent memory, the In his testimony, Herlihy did say the one Vermont Department of Health decided of the reasons the flu clinic administration this year not to conduct the State’s annual may have broken down this year was the State Looking for flu shot clinics for state employees. The “surprise” retirement of the individual who Feedback on clinics were instead administered by a pri- had coordinated the State’s program in vate firm called Healthy Achievers, which the past. And Sen. Diane Snelling (R-Chit- 2008 Flu Clinics is based in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. tenden) added that the timing of VDOH Healthy Achievers was paid a maximum Commissioner Moffat’s resignation could On the heels of the many complaints of $92,800 to perform the service. have impeded the process as well. filed with VSEA and the GAC about Shortly after the flu clinics commenced, Several legislators did press Herlihy the State’s 2008 flu clinics—which, for VSEA began to hear a number of disturb- about why the VDOH decided it could the first time in recent memory, were ing reports from VSEA members statewide, not handle the clinics this year; some conducted by a private, for-profit, out- complaining about the way the clinics wondering if it might have something to of-state company—the State’s Wellness were being conducted. There were a few do with unfilled vacancies resulting from Program is conducting a short survey compliments as well, but the complaints the State’s job cuts. Herlihy said he did not to determine how state employees felt far out numbered them— and VSEA wasn’t know the exact answer, and he deferred about this year’s clinics. the only one hearing them. Members of the to the VDOH, who, unfortunately, did legislature’s newly created Government not have a representative present. Several The survey can be found at: Accountability Committee (GAC) were committee members did say they wanted http://www.zoomerang.com/ hearing them too to hear why from a VDOH representative Survey/?p=WEB228KX7XW5NA. Prompted by calls and e-mails to their at a future GAC meeting, and, hopefully, offices with complaints and concerns that will happen. VSEA urges members to fill out the about the administration of this year’s Finally, Sen. Kevin Mullin (R-Rutland) survey and ask as many of your co- State flu clinics, several GAC members suggested that the Health and Welfare workers as possible to do the same. requested that the State appear before Committee hold a hearing on the flu shot the committee in November to explain clinics shortly after the new legislative how the contract ended up with Healthy session kicks off in January. or something that identifies what was Achievers. A majority of the GAC members did administered to you. Nothing. I will also Testifying on behalf of the State was openly state their opposition to contracting add that another State employee received DHR Commissioner David Herlihy. He this annual State service to an out-of-state a flu shot in Brattleboro. Her shot location told the GAC that he was contacted by the company. “In this economy, we should be in the arm turned red, swelled quite a bit VDOH at the end of May 2008 and told striving to keep these dollars in Vermont, and burned. She did not have anything the department would be unable to con- not sending them to New Hampshire,” said to refer to, to see if this was a “normal” duct this year’s flu clinics. He explained Sen. Anne Cummings (D-Washington). reaction. that because of the late notice, the State I hope the situation is resolved before was up against a time constraint to secure Here Is What Some VSEA Members next year’s flu season! an administrator that had the necessary Reported About This Year’s Clinics: personnel, could conduct the needed & number of clinics and had the amount From Brattleboro: of vaccine required for all who wanted a “I had a flu shot last Wednesday in shot. Herlihy testified that, prior to contact- “Upon arrival, we knew immediately Brattleboro. It was a very different experi- ing Healthy Achievers, the State did reach that something was not “right.” There ence than clinics I have attended in the out to the Vermont Nurses Association was a very long line and the door to the past. They had 2 (I assume) nurses giving (VNA) to try and procure their services, room where the shots were being admin- shots to people approximately five feet but VNA told the State it could not do it. istered was wide open. I must admit that from each other. I don’t think that the That testimony was later refuted by a VNA the line moved quickly. There were far person who gave me my shot looked at representative, who told the GAC that VNA too many people in the room while you my questionnaire. While the person across never said it could not do the service. were receiving your flu shot. There was the table from me was offered a seat, I The VNA representative also said that he so much chaos, I questioned whether or was not. My shot hurt while being given believed the State contacted the for-profit not the “nurse” (I have no idea if she was and for a few days after. No band-aid was Professional Nurses Services Inc., before a nurse) even loaded the syringe with offered. After the shot I was instructed to contacting VNA to see if it could help. anything! She appeared so overwhelmed. fill out my name and insurance. When I Finally, the VNA representative made it I was never asked a single question by the finished doing this I had to wait to get out clear that the firm wanted to work with nurse. After received the shot (or simply of the room as someone was being given the State again in 2009, saying he hoped being stuck with a needle) I stood around a shot between me and the door. There discussions would start soon on how to for a minute waiting to receive further in- was no encouragement to have a seat to conduct the 2009 clinics. Many legisla- structions. Nothing. She just took the next watch for reaction or information about tors supported the idea of the discussion person. Usually, we receive a notice that possible reactions. happening sooner, not later. lists a number to call if you should have a When I got to the clinic I was told that reaction; the notice lists the “lot number” things were running behind schedule 10 Flu Shots because the ‘shot givers’ were late get- complaining waiting in line. My biggest ting there. complaint is that the state hired outside “In short, if the flu shots are given in help, which is such a let down to VT. Dept. the same way next year I will arrange to of Health as there was no notification to have my shot administered by my primary the health department asking if anyone to care provider.” help with the flu shot days. There were so many of us that would have volunteered a From Rutland: couple of hours to help with the schedul- ing, planning and doing the clinic. I have “I had my flu shot in Rutland. There was been getting my flu shots for years at the no distribution of the Vaccine Information health department and this was the worst Statement (VIS), which is required by fed- I have every seen. I plan to continue to get eral law to be given to a person prior to my flu shots, but as long as my co-workers any vaccination. Also they did not ask me at the VT. Dept. of Health are the ones that to wait 10 minutes after shot. I did arrive will be doing the clinic as they know what with my paperwork filled out, but they we like to see at the clinic. Thank you for did not review it with me. But that was letting me vent…..” OK with me, I understood he questions. Perhaps not everyone does though. From From Barre: personal nursing experience I know this is not always the case. “I attended the Barre flu clinic at Mc- I think VDH nurses were more thorough Farland on Friday. I will not be attending last year.” the flu clinic next year if run by the same company without major changes. I had From Middlebury: an appointment, only to find out no one been about 35 people who all had an ap- had a list of appointments, so there were pointment for either 10:15 or 10:30, and “I attended the flu shot clinic in Middle- people who came ahead of me that actu- more kept arriving. bury at the Dept. of Health. This is the ally had appointments after me. There was The person administering the shot was first year that I attended the clinic and I a large amount of people in the waiting late. There was only one woman. She did can assure you it will be the last. I was room. The person running the clinic had not wear gloves, did not review paper- absolutely appalled at the way the site was no name tag and was not well prepared. work submitted by people and there was administered. It was quite a humiliating I was taken into a room with another no privacy. There were two people in the experience. person to get a shot, and when I refused, room getting a shot at the same time. She I normally obtain my flu shot at a clinic was taken into another room, where the used a small amount of Purell to clean her sponsored by my primary care physician. nurse attempted to pull yet another person hands between giving shots. People waited At that clinic, which takes place in the in with me. She had no name tag. She did up to two hours to receive a flu shot. If the doctor’s office waiting room, there is a not wear gloves, and said I didn’t need a intention was to save money one must take privacy screen, discussion with the nurse band aid, as I wasn’t bleeding after getting into account there were state employees about any health concerns, and the utmost the shot. I had to ask for one. She did not waiting around for a long time to receive cleanliness. It only took a minute more to confirm my identity, nor did anyone make the shot.” afford privacy and professionalism. me stay to be observed. I walked right out. Hopefully the State will not contract I was hesitant to get the shot, but did so. From Springfield: with this company again. In retrospect, I should have refused. I will not go next year, I will take sick time and “I had the same concerns as many re- From Burlington: go to my doctor, costing more time and garding the flu shots. When I asked the per- money for the state, unless I can be assured son (who I assume was a nurse) if I should “I have to say that I was totally shocked I will get the treatment I had year before wait ten minutes, she told me no because I on how the “clinic” was set up. First of last. Although it was a pain to have to stay had the flu shots in the past (which I found all, there was no privacy whatsoever and fifteen minutes after the shot, the differ- odd since I am sure they change the type of we are all standing in line waiting and ence in how I was treated was huge, and shots each year and who knows…I could watching. This was very uncomfortable to the fifteen minutes is nothing compared to have had a reaction). me. Someone in line actually went across the comfort I felt with the Dept of Health I did not like the fact that I could not the room to move some writing boards running the program prior to this year.” tell who these people were and honestly I (on wheels) to block the nurses giving the would much prefer to have the nurses from shots. There were no chairs for anyone to From St. Albans: VDH (who I know and trust) to give me this sit down to have their shots. The only plus type of shot. If the company comes in the side is that the shot did not hurt “My appointment was for 10:30 a.m. future I will most likely not get my shot.” I understand that they were short staffed When I arrived the room was filled with because one of the nurses broke her people, all of whom had an appointment forearm setting up the clinic and I am not for either 10:15 or 10:30. There must have

11 around our union VSEA-Endorsed Candidates Successful In 86% Of Races

On November 4, VSEA-endorsed candidates were successful in 115 of the 135 races where the union made endorsements. Through phone-banking, envelope stuffing and door-knocking, VSEA was particularly active this election season with many mem- bers playing key roles in House and Senate campaigns. “We have a difficult road ahead,” said VSEA Legislative Coordinator Conor Casey. “The State will no doubt continue targeting additional positions and services over the course of the next legislative session. Thankfully, we won’t be alone in our fight as we were able to help elect some excellent legislators who support state workers and the services they provide.” Among the biggest wins this year were Paul Poirier’s upset over incumbent Leo Valliere in Barre City. As former chair of the House Appropriations Committee, Paul has a long history of supporting organized labor and will be a powerful ally in the State House. In St. Johnsbury, IBEW activist Bob South had a decisive win (1,483 votes!) in a traditionally conservative district. “As a frontline worker himself, Bob is exactly the kind of guy we need to be sending to Montpelier,” said VSEA Legislative Committee Chair Jeff Briggs, who spent hours on the campaign trail with Bob. And not to be forgotten, VSEA’s own Terry Macaig will be the new junior representative from Williston. “As former president and current staffer at VSEA, no one understands the issues facing our membership better than Terry,” said VSEA Director Jes Kraus. “Both our organization and Terry’s constituents will be well served by the institutional knowledge he brings to the Legislature.”

Here is a list of other victorious VSEA-candidates statewide (bold=newly elected):

Treasurer Jeb Spaulding ...... Statewide Rep. Jason Lorber...... Chittenden 3-3 Tom Stevens...... Washington Chittenden 1 Sen. Claire Ayer...... Addison Senate Rep. Rachel Weston...... Chittenden 3-3 Rep. Patty O’Donnell...... Windham 1 Sen. Harold Giard...... Addison Senate Rep. David Zuckerman...... Chittenden 3-4 Rep. Ann Manwaring...... Windham 2 Sen. Bob Hartwell...... Bennington Senate Rep. Johannah Donovan...... Chittenden 3-5 Rep. Gini Milkey...... Windham 3-1 Matthew Choate...... Caledonia Senate Suzi Wizowaty...... Chittenden 3-5 ...... Windham 3-2 Sen. ...... Caledonia Senate Rep. Ken Atkins...... Chittenden 3-6 Rep. Sarah Edwards...... Windham 3-3 Tim Ashe...... Chittenden Senate Rep. ...... Chittenden 3-8 Rep. Michael Obuchowski...... Windham 4 Sen. Edward Flanagan...... Chittenden Senate Rep. Sonny Audette...... Chittenden 3-9 Rep. ...... Windham 4 Sen. Virginia Lyons...... Chittenden Senate Rep. ...... Chittenden 3-10 Rep. ...... Windham 5 Sen. Doug Racine...... Chittenden Senate ...... Chittenden 5-1 Rep. ...... Windham 5 Sen. Diane B. Snelling...... Chittenden Senate Rep. Joan Lenes...... Chittenden 5-2 Rep. Richard Marek...... Windham 6 Sen. Vincent Illuzzi...... Essex-Orleans Senate Rep. Debbie Evans...... Chittenden 6-1 Rep. John Moran...... Windham Bennington 1 Sen. Robert Starr...... Essex-Orleans Senate Rep. Tim Jerman...... Chittenden 6-2 Rep. Rick Hube...... Windham Bennington Windsor 1 Sen. Sara Branon Kittell...... Franklin Senate Rep. Jim Condon...... Chittenden 7-1 Rep. Kathy Pellett...... Windsor 1-1 Sen. Mark Macdonald...... Orange Senate Rep. John Zenie...... Chittenden 7-1 Rep. Alice M. Emmons...... Windsor 1-2 Sen. Bill Carris...... Rutland Senate Rep. Kristy Spengler...... Chittenden 7-2 Rep. Cynthia Martin...... Windsor 1-2 Sen. Ann E. Cummings...... Washington Senate Rep. Richard Howrigan...... Franklin 2 Rep. Ernest Shand...... Windsor 2 Sen. Bill Doyle...... Washington Senate Rep. ...... Franklin 3 Rep. Donna Sweaney...... Windsor 3 Sen. Peter E. Shumlin...... Windham Senate Rep. Mitzi Johnson...... Grand Isle Chittenden 1 Rep. Alison Clarkson...... Windsor 5 Sen. ...... Windham Senate Rep. Ira Trombley...... Grand Isle Chittenden 1 Rep. Mark Mitchell...... Windsor 6-1 Sen. John Campbell...... Windsor Senate Rep. Linda J. Martin...... Lamoille 2 Charles Bohi...... Windsor 6-2 Sen. Dick McCormack...... Windsor Senate Rep. Floyd Nease...... Lamoille 3 Rep. Margaret Cheney...... Windsor Orange 2 Sen. ...... Windsor Senate Rep. Richard Westman...... Lamoille 4 Rep. ...... Windsor Orange 2 Rep. Steven Maier...... Addison 1 Rep. Peter Peltz...... Lamoille Washington 1 Rep. Dennis J. Devereux...... Windsor Rutland 1 Rep. Betty Nuovo...... Addison 1 Rep. Shap Smith...... Lamoille Washington 1 Rep. ...... Windsor Rutland 2 Rep. Willem Jewett...... Addison 2 Rep. Susan Hatch Davis...... Orange 1 ...... Addison 3 Rep. Sarah Copeland Hanzas...... Orange 2 Rep. Michael Fisher...... Addison 4 Rep. Patsy French...... Orange Addison 1 Rep. Dave Sharpe...... Addison 4 Rep. Robert Lewis...... Orleans 1 Rep. Christopher Bray...... Addison 5 Rep. Dave Potter...... Rutland 1-2 Rep. ...... Bennington 1 Rep. James L. McNeil...... Rutland 4 Rep. Tim Corcoran...... Bennington 2-1 Rep. Peg Andrews...... Rutland 5-2 Rep. Joseph L. Krawczyk...... Bennington 2-1 Rep. Steve Howard...... Rutland 5-3 Rep. Anne Mook...... Bennington 2-2 Rep. Gale Courcelle...... Rutland 5-4 Rep. Mary Morrissey...... Bennington 2-2 Rep. Peg Flory...... Rutland 6 Rep. Alice Miller...... Bennington 3 Rep. Joe Acinapura...... Rutland 7 Rep. Leigh Larocque...... Caledonia 1 Rep. ...... Washington 2 Rep. Lucy Leriche...... Caledonia 2 Paul Poirier...... Washington 3-1 Robert South...... Caledonia 3 Tess Taylor...... Washington 3-2 Kitty Beattie Toll...... Caledonia Washington 1 Rep. Topper Mcfaun...... Washington 4 Rep. Scott Orr...... Chittenden 1-2 ...... Washington 5 Terry Macaig...... Chittenden 2 Rep. Warren Kitzmiller...... Washington 5 Rep. Jim Mccullough...... Chittenden 2 Rep. Janet Ancel...... Washington 6 Rep. Bill Aswad...... Chittenden 3-1 Rep. Tony Klein...... Washington 7 VSEA past-President Terry Macaig was Rep. Mark Larson...... Chittenden 3-2 Rep. Sue Minter...... Washington Chittenden 1 newly elected in Williston. 12 around our union VSEA Will Urge Legislature To Revisit State’s Boiler Inspection Program A week after a boiler exploded on the “He added that the State also relinquished campus of the University of Vermont, VSEA its oversight authority over the private issued the following press release: boiler inspectors as well in 2005. This VSEA member cautioned the committee Last week’s boiler explosion on the in April 2007 that he believed the State’s campus of the University of Vermont is boiler inspection protocol had become too prompting the Vermont State Employees lax, and he warned that a boiler incident Association (VSEA) to call on the legisla- at a place like ‘a larger institution such as ture to fully vet the State’s boiler inspection a school’ should be a concern to every program in the upcoming session. Committee member. Today, unfortunately, “It’s far too early to determine if a his prediction came true, but, thank- boiler inspection might have prevented fully, without the catastrophic outcome the explosion at UVM last week, but the he feared. That said, he and VSEA remain commissioned state employees were incident does illustrate why VSEA thought concerned that without State oversight of performing the required inspections— it was important to begin educating Ver- boiler inspections, future boiler explosions VSEA believes boilers across the State monters, legislators and the press last may have far more tragic results than what were safer,” said Kraus. “Today, because year about what happened to the State’s happened last week at UVM.” of privatization, VSEA is concerned that boiler inspection program in 2005,” said Kraus said he understands that for many there will be more incidents like the one VSEA Director Jes Kraus. He explained years prior to the State’s decision in 2005 at UVM, so we are again sounding the that a VSEA member testified to the House to privatize the boiler inspections, there alarm about this issue.” Institutions Committee about the issue in were no serious boiler incidents like the April 2007. one at UVM, or boiler issues like the ones Ed Note: State boiler inspectors used to “A state employee who is very knowl- at the Labor Department in Barre, where receive a fee from clients to inspect boil- edgeable about the State’s boiler inspec- employees had to be relocated in 2007 ers, so the State was earning revenue. tion program told the Committee that, in after some were sickened by fumes from Since 2005, however, the revenue the 2005, a decision was made by the State to a faulty boiler. State used to receive is now going in the privatize boiler inspections and turn this “When the State had oversight of the pockets of private insurance companies. public service over to insurance compa- inspection program—and National Board nies and other private entities,” said Kraus. (of Boiler & Pressure Vessel Inspector)- VSHA Employees Ratify State Employees Raffle Wood New Contract To Raise Money For Guard Families On October 8, VSEA Vermont State Housing Authority Unit members voted While many state employees were 23-4 to ratify a new three-year agreement enjoying their Battle of Bennington that affords them a 5% wage increase in holiday, a group of state employees the contract’s first year, 4% in the second year and 3% in the final year. The pay from the State Fire Marshal’s office in scale maximums will change at the same Williston were splitting and stacking a rate, ensuring those at the maximum will cord of firewood at the home of Wally receive the full amount of the changes to Stone in Underhill. Shortly after, they their base pay, rather than receiving part of the COLA as a one-time payment. Terms raffled off the wood to raise money and conditions of the new agreement be- to help heat the homes of the families gan retroactively on October 1, 2008. of National Guard members currently serving abroad—and try and make their helped him gather the firewood. They Here are some of the contract’s other highlights: holidays a little brighter. are: (front row, l to r) Kara Bissonnette, Pictured here holding a check for Cloutier, Stone, Robert Stone (back • Strengthened language in the contract’s $400 is Joyce Cloutier, a representative row, l to r) Richard McGrath, Robert “Discipline Article” to better protect employees during investigations and of the Vermont National Guard Chari- Patterson, William Brown, Monte Ma- any or all disciplinary actions; table Foundation. The check was pre- son, Chris Boyd, Gary Palmer. Missing • Additional compensation consideration sented to Ms. Cloutier by Wally Stone from the photo are Joe Benard and John for employees who opt out of State (bottom row, third from left). Surround- Vergin. Photo taken by Alissa Ganje. health insurance plan; and • Ability to purchase long-term care in- ing Stone are the state employees who surance at group rate if three or more employees enroll. 13 around our union State’s Bennington State Office Building Employee Relocation Plan Hits Snag Months after the State announced a tenta- “There are some indications that there may tive plan to move a majority of employees who be some issues with the former brownfield that used to work at the sick Bennington State Office is there,” Myers told the Bennington Banner, Building (BSOB) to new downtown Bennington following the meeting. A brownfield is land that office space; the plan has hit a snag. may be contaminated by low concentrations Employees and VSEA staff attended a No- of hazardous waste of pollution. vember 6 stakeholders’ meeting to receive an A Department of Environmental Conserva- update from BGS Commissioner Gerry Myers tion employee is also quoted in the Banner on the State’s plans to move employees out of story, explaining that the 210 site may poten- leased trailers and into new office space. The tially contain contamination from TCE (trichlo- State moved the BSOB employees into the roethylene), a solvent used in manufacturing trailers in 2007 after VSEA and the employees processes. “We got results that show positively raised serious concerns about the alarming that [the TCE] is there,” the employee tells the number of employees throughout the complex paper. “The next step is to look at what’s caus- contracting sarcoidosis; a rare disease that, on ing it, and there’s any number of things that average, afflicts 1 in every 10,000 people, but, could be the problem.” in the BSOB complex, had afflicted 6 (possibly Myers assured the paper: “The State would more) of 135 employees. not lease space that is not deemed safe for our At the stakeholders’ meeting, Myers told state employees,” said Myers. the BSOB employees that BGS had identified VSEA Communications Coordinator Doug several sites to relocate employees to, includ- Gibson attended the meeting with VSEA Orga- ing a building located at 210 South Street, the nizing Coordinator Gretchen Naylor. Gibson Bennington Brush Building, St. Francis Acad- told the Banner: ‘VSEA thinks it would be emy and completely refurbished space inside ludicrous for the State to send these employees the 1992 portion of the existing BSOB. Myers from a bad situation to an equally bad—or space inside the sick BSOB’s 1992 portion, but said in September that it was highly probable worse—situation. We feel strongly the State will Myers told stakeholders that the 1992 section the AHS employees would relocate to the 210 feel likewise and will opt to do the right thing would undergo an extensive renovation and South Street Building, but, at the stakeholders and only move these employees to worksites comprehensive environmental testing prior to meeting, he announced that recent discoveries with safe and healthy environments.” any employee reoccupying the space. about potential environmental issues at the 210 VSEA also remains concerned about plans Building could jeopardize the move. to move employees back into refurbished Vermont State Colleges Staff Federation Unit Ratifies New Four-Year Agreement In September, VSEA members of the Vermont contract we were able to secure for our State State Colleges Staff Federation Unit voted 84-17 College Unit members.” to ratify a new four-year agreement that affords Unit members a 4 percent wage increase each Here are some of the contract’s other year of the contract. Terms and conditions of the highlights: new agreement began on July 1, 2009. “These are tough economic times for all • Wages: Consolidates the salary range Vermonters, but—to everyone’s credit—both chart with the UPV Unit for new hires, parties at the negotiating table were able to effective July 1, 2009. Any existing em- agree on a new contract that grants VSEA ployee who is below the minimum at members in the State Colleges Unit a 4% the time the chart is implemented will cost-of-living increase,” said VSC Unit Chair be brought up to the new minimum Taking part in the official contract Janis Henderson. “In addition, the State Col- and adjusted 2 percent above the new signing ceremony were (front row, l to lege Unit’s negotiating was able to maintain figure; r) Bob Clarke, VSC Chancellor; Janis employees’ seniority step raises. The team did • Continued Benefits: Maintain insurance Henderson, Staff Federation Chair; a really great job. But to me, the most amazing retirement benefits for current employees Walt Reeve, Staff Federation Vice- part of the whole process is that we were able with a 65 and 10 requirement for new to sit at the table with the Chancellor and his hires after July 1, 2008. Adds language to Chair; (middle row, l to r): Monique legal counsel and come to an agreement in one provide a 50 percent credit for previous Morris, Staff Federation Secretary; day. I believe this is an all time record.” VSC service. Adds a death and disability Mary Giordano, CSC Bargaining Rep.; Henderson added that she believes the VSC benefit for spouses when the employee Lucinda Kirk, VSEA Staff Rep.; Ingrid Van Unit negotiating team was so strong because is otherwise eligible. Vacation leave Steamburg, (former) Staff Federation Unit its individual members each brought a differ- pay out for beneficiaries capped at total Steward; Jes Kraus, VSEA Director; (back ent skill set to the table, including the ability accumulation. Limits spouse benefits in row) Charlie Sjolander, Staff Federation to research wages and benefits, the ability to the case of divorce and for new spouses Treasurer. coherently articulate staffing issues, and the after retirement. Allows buy in at full ability to accurately crunch the numbers when insurance cost; and needed. • Uniforms and Gear: Provides safety “We came to the table prepared, and we shoes for all physical plant employees made reasonable requests,” said Henderson. “I up to $100 maximum per year. think all these factors resulted in the excellent 14 around our union Legislature Needs To Clarify Intent On Direct Deposit The Vermont legislature passed a law As of the printing of this publication, history in the older advices is something in the 2008 session mandating the State here is what VSEA is advising its mem- that we have to live with at present. We to implement paperless payroll notifica- bers about the supposed direct deposit acknowledge that it is less than ideal, but tion to state employees who use direct mandate: the inability to show past leave balances deposit. The Administration, however, has is a shortcoming of the software product interpreted the language to mean that all • VSEA does not believe that the law on which our system runs. We hope that state employees must receive their pay requires you to sign up for direct issue will be addressed with upgrades to through direct deposit. deposit; the software. For the time being, employ- “VSEA does not believe the language • The State cannot refuse to pay you ees who want to track leave balances have mandates all state employees to use direct your wages because you do not sign some options. The simplest and “greenest” deposit,” explained VSEA General Counsel up for direct deposit; alternative is to make note of the bal- Michael Casey. “Even legislators disagree • If you are disciplined or otherwise ances, either on a scrap of paper or in an as to what the language means. While adversely affected for not signing electronic document. Printing is another the vast majority of our members prefer up for direct deposit, VSEA wants to option, but then your private information to use direct deposit as a convenient way hear from you immediately at 223- is on paper where others might see it and to receive their pay, there are some who, 5247; and it’s a little less environmentally friendly. for various reasons, prefer to receive a • VSEA hopes the legislature will For anyone worried about having to show paper check.” clarify its intent of the law in the what those earlier balances were in order The legislature’s direct deposit language upcoming legislative session. to correct a leave balance, DHR and Fi- reads: nance and Management maintain records “The secretary of administration is State Answers Electronic Pay Advice and documents with leave balances, that directed to initiate a program by Sep- Leave Balance Question are distributed to all departments each pay tember 30, 2008, which requires all state cycle. In addition, that leave history can employees to receive paperless notifica- HR Commissioner David Herlihy sent this be taken from the HCM system by your HR tion of their direct deposit payroll advice. e-mail in early December: administrator. The bottom line is that you The secretary and representatives of the are free to print, but we still believe that Vermont State Employees’ Association “DHR has received word that some em- most employees will prefer to rely on the are encouraged to meet to determine the ployees are concerned that leave balances ability to look at all past advices on line, most expeditious and efficient means of appear only on the current copy of the saving paper, saving money, and ensuring implementing this section.” electronic pay advice. Older versions that that it’s not on a piece of paper that could are saved in the system do not reflect leave be misplaced. balances. The concern that we have heard is that employees feel the need to print the David K. Herlihy pay advice for the purpose of tracking their Commissioner leave accruals and use. The lack of leave Happy 64th Anniversary VSEA! In March 1944, Governor William Wills met with state employees from across Vermont and voiced his support for employees to “vote to investigate a plan to form a State Employees Association.” The employees worked closely with Gov. Wills to form the association. In fact, it was the Governor who encouraged the association to form a “Grievance Committee,” establish organizational independence and exclude “Department heads” from membership. The association then drafted a Constitution and By-Laws for the Vermont State Employees’ Association, and a copy was given to the Governor for review. He read them and sent this note back to the VSEA: “I am heart- ily in favor of the formation of the Vermont State Employees Association. I appreciate the opportunity you have given me to look over the Constitution and By-Laws of the proposed organization, and it would appear to me that they very adequately meet the needs and requirements of such an organization. It also seems to me that a splendid purpose can be served by such an organization, and you have my best wishes for suc- cess in its operation.” A ballot went out to the State’s 1,400 full-time employees. The VSEA Constitution required 51 percent of them to join, and 62 percent of them did. On Nov. 18, state employees from across Vermont came to the State House to witness the official adoption of the VSEA. VSEA’s first “Annual Meeting” was held in September 1945 and nearly a third of the VSEA membership attended. Annual dues were established at $1.

15 Around Our Union Longtime AOT Employee Calls It Quits After 41 dedicated years working for the Ver- A: Totally privatized, and I see the agency mont Agency of Transportation, long time VSEA heading towards that fast. AOT leadership knows activist and member Larry Young retired from the problems that are out there on our roads and State service on October 31, 2008. the bridges, but when they first told the Douglas Young, 62, started work for the AOT after Administration about them, nothing was done. returning to Vermont following three years of I think the Administration waited until the issue military service in Viet Nam. For a majority of his was helpful politically and used it as a tool to get working life, Young was active in VSEA, serving as re-elected. They aren’t using it for the safety and a steward, Board of Trustees member and Council well-being of the state, or the way it should be. member. He also sat on many VSEA committees, It’s politics, and I’m sick of it. Do what’s right, and including the AOT Labor/Management Commit- the heck with the politics. Do what’s supposed to tee. In September, Young spoke out forcefully be done, the way it’s supposed to be done. against the State’s job cuts at the VSEA “Speak Out” at the State House. Q: What did you like most about working for Just after leaving State service, the VOICE the AOT? conducted an interview with Larry. Here’s what he had to say: A: Getting done [laughs]! To be honest, I used to enjoy going to work. I actually felt like I was Q: What prompted you to retire now? contributing something to the State and to my neighborhood, but now there’s so much politics A: [laughs] I was sick of getting up at night and and not enough common sense. When they cut going out to plow snow. Seriously. Working for the a budget and don’t send someone out to plow or transportation agency is not an old man’s game. I take care of the road when it needs it, the people reached the point where I knew I was done. My that see us, complain to us and not the people heart just wasn’t in it anymore. who caused this to happen. We’re on the front- line getting the brunt of it, while they are sitting Q: Why did you get involved early on with VSEA Q: How has AOT changed in your 41 years? back saying “See how much money we saved.” and what kept you involved? This makes the general public say “The State’s A: When I first started, we had a lot more not doing its job.” Vermonters don’t understand. A: As I worked more and more years, I saw people in all the AOT districts. Probably double Sometimes the public will call the main office, the need for there to be communication between what we have now. Nowadays, we don’t do nearly but, for the most part, it’s the guys in the garages AOT labor and management, and it didn’t seem what we did when I started. We used to do all our hearing the complaints. This coming winter, they to be going the way it should be. VSEA was there, own garbage collection, all our own hot mixing, want to cut back on the help—at least a 20 percent acting as an intermediary, so I got involved for that crack filling, culvert repair and we made own cold reduction in overtime. If they cut back 20 percent, reason. I started as a steward and worked at that patch. We were self sufficient. In the time I’ve somebody will see it somewhere. Better get ready for a while, and then I got on union committees, been there, the hot mixing has been contracted to slip and slide. the Council and the Board of Trustees. When I out, we don’t crack fill anymore because it’s been first got active in VSEA, there seemed to be more contracted out, we still pick up a little garbage Q: Anything you will miss about the job? member involvement and everyone seemed to but most of that is contracted out and the garbage get along better. Whatever happened happened, truck we used to have is gone. When I started we A: Not really, but I did miss my AOT job the and we all stood together. Now, it seems like used to mow all the roadsides by hand, but now way it was when I first started. Nowadays though, management has been instructed to try and drive a lot of the mowing is contracted out. Even a lot I won’t miss the politics that are now involved, a wedge between employees, so they can control of the bigger projects—like the highway project the lack of common sense, the underfunding and them—and this is exactly what they’ve done. in Newport—are contracted out. the State asking AOT employees to do a job that’s Employees are so busy fighting with each other impossible to do without giving us the people and at work, over a job or some other little thing, that Q: What happened? equipment to do it. they are forgetting the bigger picture. The snitch- ing that goes on anymore is what’s killing people A: We’ve been downsized so much that AOT Q: What do AOT employees hear from the public getting along. We need to give up the snitching couldn’t do most of this stuff anymore anyway. The these days that makes them angriest? and finger pointing. We have to get back to the workforce has been cut and so have our budgets. “we’re all in this together” thinking. I mean, if you don’t fund something, you can’t do A: That AOT doesn’t take care of the roads the anything. I felt we are being set up to fail. Make it way we should. A lot of AOT employees aren’t Q: Why do more VSEA members need to get look like we can’t do the work, but the truth is, we happy with their jobs now and morale is way involved in the union now? can’t do the work the way they’re asking us to do down. I think this is created by the current work at- it. If you give us the same amount of people and mosphere. When I first started, it was a loose ship, A: I would warn that this next contract we money as the private contractors you hire, then but it was a happy ship. The help all got along, negotiate is going to determine what kind of pay we can do the work. What the State has done is and the public got along with AOT. As the money we get, what kind of health care we get, and how downsize AOT to just the point where we can got tighter and services started to be reduced, the many hours we work. We know that the State is barely slip by. AOT no longer goes out and does public’s aggravation with AOT grew. probably not going to be offering a lot this time the job before it needs to be done. We wait until around, if anything. I worry that everything I and something happens and then correct it. AOT is Q: Any lessons you’ve learned about state gov- other older workers fought to get state employees now reactive, not proactive. ernment? over the last 25 or 30 years will be lost if more members don’t get involved. We could lose quite Q: Where do you see AOT if it continues down A: Absolute power corrupts. a bit. Getting involved doesn’t just mean being its current path? Continued on page 19 16 Around Our Union

AOT Employee Calls It Quits career is shot. I guess it’s the way they were raised. Q: Any advice for management? Continued from page 16 Kind of a blind obedience to the powers that be. And a lot of the younger employees have always A: Listen to the older employees. Talk to them. on the bargaining team. Getting involved means had what they wanted so why rock the boat? The Have it open enough that they feel comfortable when the word goes out that we need bodies on older employee didn’t have as much, or feel like talking and listen to their advice when they give it. the street for a demonstration, or bodies for a they had to make a big showing at the expense of I remember sitting on the AOT labor/management contract campaign, that you show up and par- somebody else. Nowadays, some younger workers committee and offering ideas to save money, but ticipate. Isn’t it worth your time to come out one feel like “if it makes me look good, especially to it didn’t seem like management wanted to hear or two nights to say: “I want to save my job and management, screw the other person.” It used to them. A lot of the managers anymore are afraid my benefits?” Or do you not care enough and are be if we had a problem in the garage, we’d go to to be open. They’ve got their mandate and they’re willing to sit at home and say let someone else do management and say “we’ve got a problem here following it. If you’re going to be a manager, and it. If you sit home, don’t complain to me. Honestly, and it needs to be corrected.” We all went together do it the right way, you’re going to have to do what I don’t think the reality of Vermont’s economy because there is power in numbers. That doesn’t you feel needs to be done. has hit home yet with many employees. Maybe mean one or two people, buy everyone. Damn they haven’t lost enough yet, but I’m hopeful they lucky if you can get everyone to do that now. Q: Any particular AOT story stick out in your will wake up soon before it’s too late. We’ve had mind? it pretty good over the past 25 or 30 years, and Q: Can you give me an example of when the we’ve been able to get quite a lot of stuff, but that employees at your garage stood together? A: The Phish concert in Coventry in 2004 could all go away very quickly if VSEA members [laughs]. The amount of garbage we had to pick don’t get involved. I might be retired now, but if A: When I worked at the Derby garage, a fel- up on I-91 was unbelievable. You had to see it there’s a VSEA contract campaign or demonstra- low retired one time. We took up a collection for to understand how much garbage was there. We tion, I’ll be there. this guy, and he says to me one day “Larry, maybe were picking it up with bucket loaders and dump- the guys didn’t think too much of me. Didn’t they ing it in dump trucks. Q: You’ve been on a bargaining team, how has take up a collection for me?” I said “We sure did” that process changed since Governor Douglas and he says “I never saw it.” So I went back and Q: What will you do in retirement? was elected? talked to the other employees, and we approached the foreman and asked where the money was and A: I’ll putz around the garden and drive my A: The governor hasn’t really bargained the last he says “Oh’ I just forget.” The point is, we stood wife crazy. couple of times the way we used to bargain. We together as one on it and the guy got his retirement used to go in and sit across the table and propos- present. Today, I think they’d say “I’m not going Q: Any final thoughts? als would go back and forth and somewhere we to get mixed up in that.” would try to find some common ground. There’s A: Yeah. A lot of these legislators who are none of that anymore. You go in there now and Q: How does VSEA need to change in your elected say they are going down to do the people’s it’s “no, no, no.” They do enough to say they opinion? business, but state employees do the people’s busi- bargained like they should have, but they know ness. We aren’t elected, but we do the people’s where it’s heading—fact finding. That’s their idea A: We need to get some more younger people business. Whether the legislators realize it or not, of bargaining. involved. But, at the same time, there has to be we’re doing the same job they are doing. enough of the older guard around to show them Q: What do you think more younger employees how things are done and to share their experi- aren’t involved in VSEA? ence. I think it’s time for some of the older VSEA members to step back and give the younger folks A: The younger employees today seems to a chance—or I worry we’ll be done! think that if you’re involved in the union, your VSEA Welcomes New Field Representative Peter Garon

Peter Garon is the newest addition to the VSEA staff, joining the union in September as the new field representative for worksites in Addison, Rutland, and Bennington counties. A return to VSEA for Garon is a return to his union activist roots. In 1980, he was hired as a state employee, and he immediately made sure he belonged to VSEA as a full-fledged member. Garon was very active in the union, serving as a trustee and a bargaining team member for both the Supervisory and Non-Management Units. In 1998, he was promoted to a personnel position with AHS, but the promotion meant he would no longer be a VSEA member. Garon didn’t let that stop him from continuing to pay his union dues. “My VSEA membership meant something to me, and social and economic justice have always been important to me,” explains Garon. “Continuing to pay my dues seemed like the right thing to do.” Garon left his AHS position in 2008*, and he says that although he worked in management (“the other side”) for a long time, he is proud of the reputation he earned for wanting to work closely with VSEA to resolve workplace conflicts in a fair and humane manner. “I view returning to VSEA as an opportunity to put my understanding of state human resources to work for members,” says Garon. “Knowing what to expect from management gives me a great advantage. I can anticipate their moves and reactions. This will help me represent VSEA members better when I have to respond to their issues and concerns. Honestly, I look forward to the opportunity to help keep manage- ment honest in their dealings with state employees, particularly in this difficult economic climate,” says Garon. Garon received a B.S. in Political Science from Middlebury College in 1966 and his M.A.T. in Social Studies from Antioch-Putney Graduate School in Putney, Vermont in 1967. He is a native Vermonter from the Northeast Kingdom.

*For two years, Garon worked as a VDOH Laboratory Administrator. 17 Around Our Union VSEA Diversity Committee Back Up And Running After a seven-year hiatus, the VSEA Di- the situation, please contact the Diversity VSEA Diversity versity Committee was reconvened in 2007 Committee and let us know.” by President Harkness, and, already, VSEA In the past, Lowell explains, the Diversity Committee Still members are contacting the committee with Committee produced educational mate- Looking for questions and concerns about situations in rial for employees, like an informational their workplace. brochure. The committee also helped draft Members! “It didn’t take long for a couple of state contract language promoting a harassment- employees to contact our committee and free workplace, and it conducted a com- By Jeannie Lowell, ask for advice and assistance on how to prehensive survey to measure the impact of Diversity Committee Chair deal with some workplace diversity issues,” diversity issues at the workplace. said Committee Chairperson Jean Lowell, an Since reconvening, the five-member com- VSEA President Bill Harkness has re- investigator in the Attorney General’s office. mittee has been hard at work discussing and instated the VSEA Diversity Committee. “We responded to the employee requests, formulating its purpose statement, defining serving as an information resource and mak- its goals, drafting a plan of action and get- The goals of the Diversity Committee ing referrals.” ting the word out about the committee. The include: assisting VSEA members in Asked to explain the types of situations committee is also hoping to sponsor and/ understanding the benefits of a diverse that might prompt an employee to reach out or participate in area programs and events workforce; advocating and promoting to the VSEA Diversity Committee, Lowell ex- that raise awareness about diversity and management policies/procedures that plained: “Have you ever felt uncomfortable, celebrate it. promote diversity; ensuring that VSEA disliked or isolated at your workplace simply “I have spent 20 years investigating com- is offering harassment and diversity because there is something about you that plaints of harassment and discrimination might be a little ‘different?’ Did it make you in private-sector workplaces, and I believe training to its activist and members; dread going to work or make doing your job there are public-sector employees experi- encouraging VSEA to sponsor and more difficult? Have you wondered what you encing the same work environment,” says participate in diversity programs and can do about it? Have you felt afraid to even Lowell. She adds that employee issues fall events; and serving as a resource and try? You’re not alone. This is the experience into the category of “legally protected” (sex, providing support to VSEA members a lot of state employees who have some per- race age, sexual orientation and disability) to pertaining to diversity issues. sonal characteristic that makes them stand not legally protected ( weight, height, social out from their co-workers, or makes them or economic status). the target of jokes, exclusion or even outright “The VSEA Diversity Committee can serve The committee is hoping to recruit hostility. If you’ve ever wished there was as a valuable resource for state employees members who can bring to the commit- someone available to help your supervisors looking for confidential help and guidance tee the experience and perspective of and co-workers understand and appreciate with diversity issues,” says Lowell. “You someone whose color, sexual orienta- your ‘difference,’ or if you want to learn more don’t have to go it alone anymore. We want tion, physical or mental ability, national about what can be done to help you rectify to help.” origin, age, sex, economic or social class, gender identity, or any other New To The VSEA Advantage Discount Program background, trait or characteristic, has left them feeling marginalized, op- Thanks to the hard work of the VSEA Mem- Creative Memories bership Recruitment Committee and several in- 101 S. Main St. pressed or isolated, especially in their dividual VSEA members, many new businesses Hardwick, VT 05843 experience as a state employee. have joined the VSEA Advantage Discount 802-472-5473 Program in the past few months. Here are the Contact: Karen Richardson The Diversity Committee meets businesses that have come on board: Website: www.mycmsite.com/karenrichardson on the first Tuesday of every month, Free shipping on orders of $30 or more! The Chimney Smith Products must be ordered directly through Karen from 2:30-4:30pm. It presently meets Chimney Cleaning & Repair Richardson. at VSEA headquarters in Montpelier. 39 Bailey Street However, in the interest of attracting Barre, VT 05641 FitnessZone other committee members—and being Phone: 802-479-3559 28 North Main St. accessible to workers who need as- 10% off chimney liner installations St. Albans, VT 05478 Contact: Thomas Murphy sistance on diversity issues—the com- Otter Creek Awnings, Phone: 802-527-1234 mittee is prepared to attend meetings at Sunrooms and Custom Closets E-mail: [email protected] other worksites around the state. 19 Echo Place Website: www.fitnesszonevt.com Williston, VT 05495 A 15% discount on regularly priced membership Please contact VSEA staff member Phone: 802-864-3009 Contact: Megan Houston The Sleep Rite Shop Abigail Doolittle at 802-223-5247 to Website: www.ottercreekawnings.com 101 S. Main St. let us know if you are interested in join- E-mail: [email protected] Hardwick, VT 05843 ing the Diversity Committee, or want Save up to $1500 on sunrooms! Save 10% on Phone: 802-472-6716 to host a Diversity Committee meeting awnings and custom closets May 1-August 31, Contact: Karen Richardson at your worksite. 2009! All other dates, save 20%! Website: [email protected] 10% off regularly priced items! 18 Steward Steward Profile Each issue, the VOICE profiles a VSEA lot of employees come and go, but in her Because the VVH is a unique work steward who is making a difference in role as VSEA steward, she’s been a steady environment, meaning the facility is open their Chapter and for their co-workers. constant for all the employees, no matter 24/7 every day of the year, Patience says short- or long-term. attendance and staffing issues are a larger “A lot of times I’ll advocate for an here then in most state workplaces. employee who is still on probation,” says “Our residents can’t take care of them- Patience. I know [management] has the selves; they depend on us for help every right to let a probationary employee go, day,” she explains. “That means if, for but that doesn’t mean that employee some reason, we’re short-staffed, some- shouldn’t get a fair hearing…give them one has to pick up the slack to make sure another chance maybe.” our resident’s are getting what they need. It’s that sense of justice that guides Working to maintain this level of continu- Patience as well when she’s advising her ous 24/7 service makes it so employee VSEA co-workers about a problem or is- attendance and staffing issues move right sue. to the top.” “I became a VSEA steward because I Patience adds that because the VVH is wanted to make sure people are treated such a large facility—and one that oper- fairly across the board,” she explains. “I ates 24/7—there are other stewards to help have a lot of conviction, and I like walking her address employee issues and concerns, away with a good resolution. It makes me but not enough in her opinion. feel good. Some employees want to give “I never feel like I’m on my own down up without a fight because they don’t want here,” says Patience. “The stewards we do to deal with the problem; they just want it have consult with each other and work to go away. As a steward, part of my job is well together. It’s a collaborative effort, to make sure our people know their rights but we really don’t have enough stewards and are making good decisions.” right now. We need more.” Patience says that she also advises VVH Finally, Patience offers this bit of advice employees to read and understand their to VSEA members who have issues or prob- Candace Patience VSEA contract with the State. lems and want everything to be resolved Licensed Nursing Assistant “Sometimes, an employee will think I’m right away. Vermont Veterans Home a miracle worker and can make something “You can’t fix every problem, right then, Bennington that’s blatantly wrong—and against the right there,” she explains. “We have a contract—simply go away,” she says. “I’m process to resolve things, and people need Candace Patience is a veteran employee not afraid to tell these people that they are to be patient and let the process work the at the Vermont Veterans Home (VVH) in outside the bounds of the contract. Hon- way it’s set up to. If you have a question Bennington, which is not as common as estly, I think if more employees took some about the process, ask a steward.” you might think. In her 11 ½ years work- time to read and understand their contract, ing as a licensed nursing assistant and the need would drop for my services as a scheduler at the VVH, Patience has seen a steward.”

VSEAid Member-Volunteer Program Launches With Very Successful Food Drive! VSEA members know often it’s an individual effort,” explained VSEAid that state employees Coordinator Katie Boyd. “VSEAid will work to don’t just help Vermont- bring more and more public employees together ers while at work, many as one collective body, working towards a com- of us also volunteer our mon goal, like helping Vermont families in need. I free time helping out in think the large contribution VSEA members made our local communities. to the Vermont Foodbank is evidence of the power But until now, there’s a collective effort can have.” never been a coordinat- VSEAid volunteers also helped out at a Decem- ed effort to coalesce many state employee bodies ber 16 blood drive at Montpelier High School. into one unified volunteer force. That’s why VSEA If you would like to volunteer your time to a VSEA Council members from across Vermont recently created “VSEAid”; a program dedicated VSEAid event, make a recommendation about a were asked to bring food donations to the to uniting VSEA members to volunteer their time deserving volunteer effort or have a question about Council’s quarterly meeting in Montpelier. and energy in communities across Vermont. the program, please contact VSEA Organizing A whopping 425 pounds of food was The VSEAid Program launched on December Coordinator Gretchen Naylor or VSEAid Coordina- contributed and delivered on December 3 to 2 with a food drive. tor Katie Boyd at 223-5247. You can also send an the Vermont Foodbank in South Barre. “State employees have always been generous e-mail to [email protected]. Please write “VSEAid” contributors to their communities, both through in the subject line. their work and their volunteering, but all too 19 Chapter & Unit News Chittenden Chapter Holds Successful VSEA Central Vermont Advantage Day Event Chapter Braves Cold To VSEA Chapters across Vermont held Host Advantage Day Event a series of “Advantage Day” events throughout the Fall 2008. The events were designed to build Chapter solidarity, intro- duce unknowing members to the union’s Advantage Discount Program and provide the VSEA Membership Recruitment Com- mittee with a vehicle to try and convert agency-fee and grandfathered members to full-fledged member status. On October 10, the Chittenden Chapter held the second of two Advantage Days VSEA members from the Central Ver- events it sponsored; an ice cream social “The Chittenden event was one of mont Chapter joined with VSEA Member- that saw a steady stream of VSEA members the most popular Advantage Program ship Recruitment Committee members and come through the door to enjoy both the events,” said VSEA Organizing Coordina- staff on December 5 to host a successful ice cream and the fellowship. tor Gretchen Naylor. “Not only did every Advantage Day event on the State House Pictured here (l to r) lining up to make one have a good time, but the Recruitment lawn in Montpelier. With the temperature their own personal ice cream creation Committee was also able to convert 14 hovering around freezing, it was appropri- are VSEA members Cheryl Brinkman and agency-fee payers to full-fledged status, ate that the event featured free hot cocoa Joan Maclay. Chittenden Chapter President which is huge.” and homemade cookies for full-fledged Kathy Henry (far right), manned the ice VSEA members who dropped by the tents cream creation table and was responsible that housed the event. Membership Re- for coordinating the event. cruitment Committee Chairperson Shelley Martin reports that five agency-fee and grandfathered VSEA members signed up at the event to become full-fledged members. Congratulations to all involved! VSEA Board Of Trustees Meeting Attendance To provide VSEA members with a full accounting of their Explanations: elected Board member’s attendance at VSEA Board of Trustees’ monthly meetings, the VOICE will begin publishing this table in District 1 = Barre, Central Vermont (includes Montpelier) all future issues. District 2 = Waterbury, Vermont State Hospital This first installment reports the individual Board member’s District 3 = Newport/Island Pond, Lamoille, NEK, St. Johnsbury attendance at each meeting during the period October 2007 District 4 = Franklin/Grand Isle, Chittenden, Addison through September 2008. District 5 = Rutland, Bennington District 6 = Brattleboro, Springfield, White River Junction

Combined Units = Defender General, Judicial and Housing

20 Chapter & Unit News Packed House For Retirees Chapter Annual Meeting

By Retirees’ Chapter President Jane Osgatharp

As I write this, we have around a foot of In fact, retiree volunteers to help with the Ad- Current activities: new snow on the ground and we are just ‘dig- vantage Day programs are very welcome. It’s ging out’. For those of you who have moved a good opportunity to learn more about the • Supporting the new VSEA project, to more temperate climes, I thought you’d like program and to reconnect with your former VSEAID. If you are a volunteer in your to know. work site friends and colleagues. The Advan- community, or an elected or appointed I want to report to you on the Retirees Chap- tage Program offers discounts at businesses and member of your town’s government, ter Annual Meeting on August 26, 2008. some professional services for VSEA members etc., let Katie Boyd at VSEA headquarters More than 100 VSEA retirees turned out for and retirees. You show your green member- know ([email protected] or 223-5247). the business meeting and the excellent lun- ship card to obtain the discount. A discount VSEA wants to let the people of Vermont cheon at the Montpelier Elks Club. The meeting directory is available at VSEA headquarters and know that state employees, both active combined business with a chance to reconnect online at VSEA’s website. and retired, are genuinely involved with with many old friends and colleagues. We also I gave an update on our issue with the improving Vermont and its people. had a chance to hear, in person, from the major VSECU, regarding its decision to drop the life gubernatorial candidates. Governor Douglas insurance benefit associated with a VSECU • Lobbying our legislators. In this period and Anthony Pollina addressed us in person. savings account. Our perception was that the of severe program cuts, our official VSEA Candidate Gaye Symington was unable to VSECU, a membership organization, was not lobbyists are working hard to preserve come personally as our meeting was the same being responsive to its members. In the best jobs and programs, but they would week as the Democratic National Convention. democratic fashion, VSEA members Terry welcome some help. If you are willing However, Representative Floyd Nease, spoke Macaig, Tom Joslin and Giovanni Peebles, were to volunteer your time to observe the for her and her candidacy. elected to the VSECU Board. It is now possible legislature, especially key committee The primary speaker on the program was for VSECU members to attend board meetings meetings during the session, you can Cynthia Webster, the State’s Director of Retire- without having to request permission to do so. provide our lobbyists with valuable ment Policy and Outreach. Cynthia announced Congratulations to the new board members. information and a valuable service. that the 2009 COLA for Groups A,B,C, & D will I also reported that members Terry Macaig They do their job well but there is so be 5%. The COLA for Groups E & F will be is running for State Representative from Wil- much happening that they can’t be at 2.5%. She emphasized that the State Employ- liston, John Bloch is running for State Senator all meetings, hearings, etc at all times. If ees Pension fund was in no danger from the from Washington County, and Marge Power is you are interested with working on VSEA gyrations of the stock market as it continued running for Secretary of State. We are proud legislative activity, contact Conor Casey to be funded at 100%. that our Retirees continue to actively work to at VSEA headquarters ([email protected] She also explained that a 2008 legislative serve the people of Vermont. or 223-5247). Conor is developing a list change to the Retirement System will eventu- Elections were held for the positions of of people who are willing to help. We ally permit Group F members who retire after President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer know how effective our lobbyists can be July 1, 2008, to receive up to the full COLA as and Trustees from Districts 1 & 4. Elected since we did get our life insurance ben- currently received by Groups A,B,C, & D. The were: efit increased 100% last year and Group other major legislative change in retirement F benefits were improved for those who benefits was an increase in the life insurance Jane Osgatharp, President retired after 7/1/08. Let’s give them some benefit from $5,000 to $10,000. Joan Maclay, Vice President payback support! Terry Fields, from the Vermont State Em- Francese Mills, Secretary ployees Credit Union, spoke about the Home Wally Farnum, Treasurer • Increasing retiree communication. Re- Heating Fuel Buying Plan being offered through Charles Perry, Trustee, District 1 tiree communication is difficult because the Credit Union by Irving Oil. This year’s plan (Central VT, Barre) we live in many different places around offered fixed price and variable pricing options. Roger Cram, Trustee, District 4 these United States as well as abroad. If However, at the time he spoke, there was no (Chittenden, Addison, you have e-mail, please send me your information on the actual prices for fuel oil Franklin/Grand Isle) e-mail address ([email protected]). with their plan. It’s the only economical, efficient and Other speakers were: VSEA Legislative Coor- Elected retiree representatives to the VSEA environmentally friendly way to keep in dinator Conor Casey, who spoke on the impact Council were Joan Maclay and Chet Briggs. contact. By doing so, we can keep you of proposed and actual job cuts on the ability of updated on important news which affects State government to provide essential services The Retirees Chapter annual meeting is held us as well as the active state employees. to the people of Vermont. He urged us to ask in August each year. We hope that you will join You can also check the VSEA website candidates for legislative and statewide offices us at the next one! (www.vsea.org), if you have internet what their positions are on this critical issue— access. The Retirees Chapter has a list- and to hold them accountable. VSEA’s position Recent News from the ing on the website where you can post is that we should vote for candidates who are Retirees’ Chapter information or questions. Other ideas for supporting state employees and the services improving our access to communication/ that they provide to us as state citizens. Terry Macaig was elected to the House of information would be greatly appreci- Shelley Martin, president of the VSEA’s Representatives from Williston! Way to go ated. Waterbury Chapter and chairperson of VSEA’s Terry. Are there any more retirees who are Membership Recruitment Committee, spoke willing to join him? Thanks for listening to me rant. Stay well to us about the union’s Advantage Discount As of 12/08 our membership was over 800 and, if you still live in the north, warm. Program and the scheduled “Advantage Days” strong! being held in several Chapters around the State. Retired members are invited to these functions.

21 EAP Notice

Uncertain Times ~ EAP as a Partner

All of us, across the board, are affected by the plummeting economy, and we are uncertain when it will bottom out. We are in this together, and we will get through it together. At times though, the going can seem very lonely, and when these times hit, EAP is there for us. It is available to all classified state employees and household members. Here are some of its of- ferings:

• Free and confidential counseling with professionals for any concern; • Financial and Legal consultation; • Resources and Referrals for any concern. Worried about your elder parent, your college teenager, tenant issues, daycare concerns? Give EAP a call. • Workshops on a wide array of topics for your workgroups; and • Web-based resources and tools at www.vtstate.investeap.org, password: vteap.

While there is no quick fix for the economy or workplace downsizing, remembering to do the things that are truly important can—and will—increase our emotional and physical fit- ness. Here are just a few: connecting with loved ones, playing with children, being outdoors to connect with each other and our environment ~ chopping wood, going for walks, helping neighbors shovel their walks or carrying in groceries, and noticing wildlife. These activities don’t put food on the table or fuel in the furnace, but they do enhance our sense of well- being. As one wise teacher says, “Sweating and laughing every day leads to a healthy, happy and whole life.”

As a state workforce—and as individuals—we will eventually get through this tough time. If you need help developing a game plan for coping in the meantime—or if you just feel like talking to someone objective—give EAP a call.

State Employee Assistance Program: 888-834-2830, available 24/7 22 Workers’ center health care campaign Healthcare Is A Human Right Vermont Workers’ Center Campaign Is Growing The Vermont Workers’ Center (VWC) health insurance! The VWC believes it is launched a campaign in May 2008 to edu- morally imperative that we create a new cate the public about the need to establish system that recognizes this basic human healthcare as a basic human right. right of health care for all. The VWC is working to achieve its goal In order to better understand the sys- by organizing a grassroots network influ- tem’s failings, the VWC has been solicit- ential and strong enough “to expand what ing stories from Vermonters about their is politically possible.” We have already experience(s) with the healthcare system. identified hundreds of Vermonters who The survey responses collected so far from collectively share this basic value, and hundreds of Vermonters have been real who agree that any healthcare policy must eye openers. be guided by this basic tenet. They include: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights—adopted in 1948 by the United • Approximately two-thirds of respon- Nations— proclaims: “Everyone has the dents have refrained from getting right to a standard of living adequate for treatment or drugs because they the health and well-being of oneself and could not afford it; one’s family, including food, clothing, ber in Brattleboro, Burlington in October housing and medical care.” Despite the • More than half have avoided chang- and Barre, St. Albans and Lyndonville in fact that these principles were adopted ing jobs for fear of losing their health November. If you and your friends want to at the urging of the United States—and insurance; organize a human rights hearing in your that many politicians say they support the town, contact us right away. beliefs—our national and state policies • Nearly one in five experienced dis- In early 2009, the VWC will hold more still fail to assure these rights to all of us. crimination accessing care; and hearings in Barre (1/29), Rutland (2/12) In fact, more than 11% of all Vermonters— and Bennington (2/19). During this time, including more than 11,000 children— • More than one in 10 stayed in an the VWC will also be building regional currently lack health insurance. Thousands abusive relationship to retain health organizing committees to build and sup- more are underinsured and finding it insurance. port the healthcare campaign. All this increasingly difficult to afford their rising activity leads to a huge May 1, 2009, rally premiums and co-pays. What good is The VWC is collecting surveys by at the State House. The goal is to get two government if it does not help its citizens knocking on doors in many neighborhoods thousand people to turn out. We believe if accomplish together what we cannot do and talking about the issues with the gen- that if that goal can be reached, it will be a individually? eral public at worksites, community events giant step forward to helping expand what Today, the only people who can truly and house parties hosted by volunteers. is politically possible. The rally marks the afford “cradle-to-grave” healthcare are the If you or a friend, neighbor or co-worker end of the first phase of the campaign. wealthy, and this is just one example of have had a terrible time navigating our The campaign’s second phase will be how the private health insurance “system” healthcare “system,” and would like to to work with supporters to turn the right has failed Americans. Our current health- share your story, we’re listening. Fill out a of health care into policy. To get there— care delivery system treats healthcare as a survey for yourself and encourage others starting at the hearings—VFC organizing market commodity upon which a few get to complete the survey as well. committee volunteers will be asking Ver- rich by denying care, while many die, suf- The VWC has also begun hosting hu- monters to sign a pledge, reading “I’ll Be fer and amass huge debts. This is not only a man rights hearings around Vermont, There For The May 1 Rally.” crisis for the uninsured; it’s a crisis for the where we “put the healthcare system on If you’re not already active is this cam- insured as well. More than half of all bank- trial” by having local residents who have paign, the VWC hopes you will be soon! ruptcies in America are a result of caused had their basic rights testify before a panel This issue impacts all of us, but, together, by out-of-control healthcare costs—and of community and religious leaders. The we can make healthcare a human right 50% of those filing for bankruptcy have Workers’ Center held hearings in Septem- in Vermont.

23 Is Your Household Receiving Two Or More VSEA VOICEs?

In some VSEA families, not one, but two or more individuals work for the September 2008 September 2008 Vol. 10, No. 2 Vol. 10, No. 2

Vermont State Employees’ Association • 155 State Street, P.O. Box 518, Montpelier, VT 05601-0518 • Phone: (802) 223-5247 • Website: www.vsea.org Vermont State Employees’ Association • 155 State Street, P.O. Box 518, Montpelier, VT 05601-0518 • Phone: (802) 223-5247 • Website: www.vsea.org State Begins Whacking Jobs With No Regard For Impact State and belong to the union. This State Begins Whacking Jobs With No Regard For Impact

The State released administration, in an effort to reach their Corrections Youth Services Specialist The State released administration, in an effort to reach their Corrections Youth Services Specialist its 150 “position re- magic 150 number, conveniently shuffled – Assessment, counseling, group facilita- its 150 “position re- magic 150 number, conveniently shuffled – Assessment, counseling, group facilita- duction” list on June job duties to other staff. Since state em- tion and community development for the duction” list on June job duties to other staff. Since state em- tion and community development for the 30, finally revealing ployees assigned new duties have the right DOC, involving the provision of interven- means that some VSEA families may 30, finally revealing ployees assigned new duties have the right DOC, involving the provision of interven- to state employees, by contract to request a reclassification, tions for a small, specialized caseload of to state employees, by contract to request a reclassification, tions for a small, specialized caseload of VSEA, legislators, VSEA will be advising affected employees youthful offenders. VSEA, legislators, VSEA will be advising affected employees youthful offenders. the public and the press which 150 work- to do so.” Forester – Responsible, in part, for the public and the press which 150 work- to do so.” Forester – Responsible, in part, for ers’ jobs would be whacked in the first Here are just a few examples of some harvesting timber that is provided to low- ers’ jobs would be whacked in the first Here are just a few examples of some harvesting timber that is provided to low- round. The State has already said that 250 services that VSEA believes will suffer due income Vermonters to assist with their round. The State has already said that 250 services that VSEA believes will suffer due income Vermonters to assist with their more positions will be cut by January 2009, to the Douglas Administration’s failure to winter heating needs. more positions will be cut by January 2009, to the Douglas Administration’s failure to winter heating needs. bringing the grand total to 400. think through its ad hoc downsizing of “VSEA will be distributing copies of this now be receiving two or more copies bringing the grand total to 400. think through its ad hoc downsizing of “VSEA will be distributing copies of this VSEA wasted no time denouncing the State government or its failure to engage list to our membership and asking state VSEA wasted no time denouncing the State government or its failure to engage list to our membership and asking state cuts and highlighting the adverse impact Vermonters early in the process to deter- employees to closely review it and con- cuts and highlighting the adverse impact Vermonters early in the process to deter- employees to closely review it and con- they will surely have on public services. mine if there were services they thought tact the union with any and all additional they will surely have on public services. mine if there were services they thought tact the union with any and all additional “VSEA has reviewed the list and it took they could live without: adverse impacts or job duty shifts resulting “VSEA has reviewed the list and it took they could live without: adverse impacts or job duty shifts resulting very little time for us to find multiple po- Health Outreach Specialist – Working from these reductions,” said Casey. “This very little time for us to find multiple po- Health Outreach Specialist – Working from these reductions,” said Casey. “This sitions that, left unfilled, will negatively for the Ladies First Program, responsible for first wave of cuts is bad enough, but the sitions that, left unfilled, will negatively for the Ladies First Program, responsible for first wave of cuts is bad enough, but the impact many Vermonters,” said VSEA In- ensuring low income, under-insured Ver- Douglas Administration isn’t done yet. of the VOICE. impact many Vermonters,” said VSEA In- ensuring low income, under-insured Ver- Douglas Administration isn’t done yet. terim Director Michael Casey in a press mont women are receiving regular mam- More cuts are coming.” terim Director Michael Casey in a press mont women are receiving regular mam- More cuts are coming.” release issued by the union on June 30. mograms and providing them additional In the press, several prominent Vermont release issued by the union on June 30. mograms and providing them additional In the press, several prominent Vermont “The Douglas Administration promised health care direction and resources. legislators joined VSEA in blasting the “The Douglas Administration promised health care direction and resources. legislators joined VSEA in blasting the Vermonters these cuts would not impact Human Service Case Aide – Unique State’s job cuts. Vermonters these cuts would not impact Human Service Case Aide – Unique State’s job cuts. services, but just a cursory review of this position who provides caseworker sup- Senate Appropriations Chair Susan services, but just a cursory review of this position who provides caseworker sup- Senate Appropriations Chair Susan list proves otherwise.” port in many forms, primarily transporting Bartlett (D-Lamoille) told the Times Argus: If your household is currently re- list proves otherwise.” port in many forms, primarily transporting Bartlett (D-Lamoille) told the Times Argus: Casey added that of the 150 position foster children to and from appointments “It’s just not possible that these reductions Casey added that of the 150 position foster children to and from appointments “It’s just not possible that these reductions reductions being claimed by the Douglas or other meetings. won’t have an effect on state services. I reductions being claimed by the Douglas or other meetings. won’t have an effect on state services. I Administration, more than 50 were placed Public Health Nurse – Participates know what members of the administra- Administration, more than 50 were placed Public Health Nurse – Participates know what members of the administra- on the list because their duties were reas- in the development, refinement and tion are saying, but I’m very dubious of on the list because their duties were reas- in the development, refinement and tion are saying, but I’m very dubious of signed to other staff. implementation of department programs that. You can’t downsize a state workforce signed to other staff. implementation of department programs that. You can’t downsize a state workforce “There are only so many hours in and public health initiatives. Specifically “There are only so many hours in and public health initiatives. Specifically the day, and VSEA is concerned that the targets at-risk populations. Continued on page 4 ceiving more than one VOICE and you the day, and VSEA is concerned that the targets at-risk populations. Continued on page 4 Dale Prison Employees Reluctantly Prepare For Closure Dale Prison Employees Reluctantly Prepare For Closure In the final days of the 2008 legislative session, Q: What do you think the result will be of uprooting As a caseworker, I know who is on my caseload and In the final days of the 2008 legislative session, Q: What do you think the result will be of uprooting As a caseworker, I know who is on my caseload and the legislature approved a plan to radically restruc- Dale’s female population and relocating it to St. most everything about the person. A caseworker at the legislature approved a plan to radically restruc- Dale’s female population and relocating it to St. most everything about the person. A caseworker at ture Vermont’s prison system. The plan, which the Albans, which, until now, has always been a male St. Albans, who has never dealt with women, is now ture Vermont’s prison system. The plan, which the Albans, which, until now, has always been a male St. Albans, who has never dealt with women, is now State also approved, will supposedly save millions prison for Vermont’s toughest and most violent going to have a brand new, 25-30 inmate caseload would like to cancel the additional State also approved, will supposedly save millions prison for Vermont’s toughest and most violent going to have a brand new, 25-30 inmate caseload of taxpayer dollars by closing the Dale facility in offenders? of women they know nothing about. As a case- of taxpayer dollars by closing the Dale facility in offenders? of women they know nothing about. As a case- Waterbury, moving Dale and Windsor’s female worker, I can tell you that having a new caseload Waterbury, moving Dale and Windsor’s female worker, I can tell you that having a new caseload populations to the high-security St. Albans facility, SC – As a general rule, more than 50 percent dropped on you like this is a nightmare. populations to the high-security St. Albans facility, SC – As a general rule, more than 50 percent dropped on you like this is a nightmare. relocating St. Albans inmates to other facilities, of women don’t like change. But we’re taking DR – The impact will be huge, and not in a relocating St. Albans inmates to other facilities, of women don’t like change. But we’re taking DR – The impact will be huge, and not in a converting the Windsor facility to a work camp, 100 percent of our women and asking them all to good way. Right now, Dale is here in the center of converting the Windsor facility to a work camp, 100 percent of our women and asking them all to good way. Right now, Dale is here in the center of and relying more on out-of-state, for-profit private change. Our women will lose the continuity they Vermont. The inmate’s family, especially their chil- and relying more on out-of-state, for-profit private change. Our women will lose the continuity they Vermont. The inmate’s family, especially their chil- prisons to house inmates. In theory, it all sounds have enjoyed until now, meaning they always see dren, doesn’t have to drive a long way to see them newsletter(s), it would do a lot to help prisons to house inmates. In theory, it all sounds have enjoyed until now, meaning they always see dren, doesn’t have to drive a long way to see them good, but what do men and women employed the same caseworkers and other employees and they because Dale is centrally located. I know that some good, but what do men and women employed the same caseworkers and other employees and they because Dale is centrally located. I know that some by the DOC think about the plan and its coming have come to know and respect those employees. of the families won’t be able to get all the way up by the DOC think about the plan and its coming have come to know and respect those employees. of the families won’t be able to get all the way up impact on Vermont? But these employees won’t be at St. Albans. Now to St. Albans to visit. It’s going to be more difficult, impact on Vermont? But these employees won’t be at St. Albans. Now to St. Albans to visit. It’s going to be more difficult, In this interview, Dale Prison employees Dawn the women will be subjected to an entirely different and with these gas prices, it makes it even harder. In this interview, Dale Prison employees Dawn the women will be subjected to an entirely different and with these gas prices, it makes it even harder. Rearick, a Corrections Officer II with six years staff that knows nothing about them. For women to It’s going to have an emotional impact on many of Rearick, a Corrections Officer II with six years staff that knows nothing about them. For women to It’s going to have an emotional impact on many of experience and Sally Carpenter, a Caseworker II walk in and just trust who they are talking to or let experience and Sally Carpenter, a Caseworker II walk in and just trust who they are talking to or let with 17 years experience, talk about what happens them know everything about them and their case VSEA save a few dollars in this tough with 17 years experience, talk about what happens them know everything about them and their case after their facility closes in January 2009. isn’t going to happen easily. There is a trust factor. Continued on page 3 after their facility closes in January 2009. isn’t going to happen easily. There is a trust factor. Continued on page 3 economic climate. If you would like to cancel the duplicate VOICEs being sent to your home, please send your name and mailing address to VSEA Operations Executive Assistant Katie Boyd, 155 State Street, P.O. Box 518, Montpelier, VT 05601, or by e-mail to [email protected].

Vermont State Employees’ Association Non-Profit Org. 155 State Street U.S. Postage P.O. Box 518 PAID Montpelier, VT 05601-0518 Permit No. 222 Barre VT