Postal Workers Reject Tentative Contract Agreement

The first open enrollment for the new Postal Service Health Benefits Program is set for Nov. 11 to Dec. 9, but it has sparked controversy among postal workers due to its Medicare integration provisions, which some critics argue could negatively impact senior employees. Meanwhile, city letter carriers are gearing up to vote on a new tentative contract after over 500 days of negotiations, with widespread dissatisfaction regarding the proposed 1.3% annual pay raise deemed insufficient given current inflation rates. Many carriers, supported by grassroots organizing efforts, are urging a 'no' vote, arguing the agreement fails to respect their contributions and does not address job safety concerns. Prominent union members have expressed their outrage, stating the deal feels like a betrayal and an insult to their service. The National Association of Letter Carriers' president defends the contract as fair, but the prevailing sentiment among carriers indicates a significant pushback against the terms. This situation reflects broader labor unrest across various sectors, as workers increasingly reject contracts perceived as inadequate.