TRIMET THE SOREST OF SORE LOSERS

As you may know, the ERB administrative law judge ruled that TriMet management violated the law when, in 2011, it unilaterally charged union employees for insurance premiums and created a lower benefit plan with a higher deductible for those that did not want to pay the higher premium costs. TriMet management was ordered to reimburse employees for all costs associated with TriMet management’s wrongful act.

TriMet management appealed the judge’s ruling. The full ERB upheld the judge’s ruling and ordered TriMet to pay. TriMet management then filed an appeal with the Oregon Court of Appeals. At the same time, TriMet management asked the ERB to stay its order that TriMet reimburse people. On March 14, 2013, the ERB said “no,” TriMet had to pay while it was waiting the outcome of its appeal to the Court.

On April 2, 2013, the Union learned that TriMet management is planning to appeal the Board's denial of TriMet's motion to stay payment of the reimbursements. TriMet management has 60 days from ERB denial of the motion to file the appeal with the Court of Appeal. No doubt, TriMet management plans to drag out that process as long as they can.

We will update you as future events occur.

Fraternally,

Bruce Hansen

President – Business Representative