Update on buyout bargaining

The Guild presented a proposal to the Times Union on Monday, October 7, 2024, to provide improved incentives and protections for members who are interested in the company’s Special Voluntary Severance Package.

The Guild proposed increasing the minimum payment to 15 weeks salary from 13 weeks salary, similar to the terms of the last buyout agreement negotiated in 2020. Under the Guild’s proposal people with more than 26 years’ experience would receive an additional $1,000 per year of experience.

This would impact 15 members and be closer to the contract severance language of a maximum of 62 weeks of pay. The Company offered a maximum payment of 52 weeks’ pay.

The Guild’s proposal included the addition of commissions and differentials to the salary calculations.

The Guild also advised the Company that it is illegal to include a provision in the buyout package which states that if an employee does not sign the severance agreement after applying for it, they would be considered to have resigned and receive no buyout. This provision violates statutory protections for older workers who are given a specific time period to review a final separation offer from an employer.

The Guild wants the Company to adhere to those legal requirements safeguarding employees who apply for the buyout package and subsequently change their minds, with the employees retaining their employment.

The Guild’s proposal included providing employees who take the buyout to have the option of receiving 50 percent of the health insurance premium in cash in lieu of coverage.

Further, the Guild seeks to ensure that a “non-compete” clause will not be included in the separation agreement.

Any employee who has their buyout application rejected would have the option to meet with Publisher George R. Hearst III to discuss the decision.

The Company said it would respond to the Guild’s proposals by Tuesday afternoon. A buyout severance package must be negotiated. When a tentative agreement is reached, it will be presented to the membership for a ratification vote.

The Guild was represented by President Ken Crowe, Vice President David Johnson and Chief Steward Wendy Liberatore. The Company was represented by Publisher George R. Hearst III and Human Resources Executive Director Melinda Jermison.

Approved for Posting, KCCII, 10/7/24