United Steelworkers Local 4895 officials are warning their members who have recently received checks from Alcoa not to cash them as the union investigates the situation further.
The letter states that the company-provided life insurance policy to most hourly employees is being eliminated on Dec. 31.
It also states by cashing the checks, termed as “a discretionary payment representing a portion of the benefit,” the union member agrees to waive any life insurance claims from the company after Dec. 31.
Local Union 4895 officials have told The Reporter they have been advised by USW national officials to advise any retirees receiving such checks from the company not to cash them.
They said the union does not think the company has the right to make such changes to the life insurance company and that the union is awaiting a full response from Alcoa and is reviewing its language and options.
Union officials were to have met with retirees to hear their concerns and provide information at 6 p.m. Wednesday (Dec. 18) at VFW Post 6525 in Rockdale.
The situation was also a major topic of discussion at the December meeting of Alcoa Retirees.
Some retirees have already cashed their checks.
From the letter, sent by Leigh Ann Fisher, executive vice president chief human resources officer for Alcoa:
“This letter is to inform you of the decision to eliminate the (company provided life insurance policy) to most hourly retirees on December 31, 2019.
“As part of the change, we are providing a discretionary payment that represents a portion of the benefit.
“By endorsing and presenting this check for payment, you are agreeing to waive any claims for life insurance coverage from the company after December 31, 2019.”
Local Union officials told The Reporter they have attempted to contact hourly retirees and will continue to keep them updated on the situation.
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