In 2017, the State of Connecticut entered into negotiations with the State Employees Bargaining Agent Coalition (SEBAC) to secure a new contract for state employees. After several months of negotiations, a new agreement was reached and signed in 2018.
The State of Connecticut SEBAC Agreement 2018 is a comprehensive document that outlines the terms and conditions of employment for state employees. The agreement covers a wide range of topics, from compensation and benefits to work rules and job security.
One of the most notable changes in the new agreement is a four-year wage freeze for state employees. This means that there will be no salary increases for four years, starting in 2017. However, the agreement does provide for a lump sum payment of $2,000 in 2021 for full-time employees who have been employed for at least one year.
In addition to the wage freeze, the agreement also includes changes to healthcare benefits for state employees. The state will switch from a traditional, fee-for-service health plan to a self-insured plan. This is expected to save the state millions of dollars in healthcare costs over the life of the agreement.
The agreement also includes changes to the state’s retirement system. The retirement age for new employees will be increased from 62 to 65, and the vesting period will be extended from five years to ten years. These changes are designed to help address the state’s unfunded pension liability, which has been a major concern in recent years.
Overall, the State of Connecticut SEBAC Agreement 2018 represents a significant shift in the way the state manages its workforce. While the wage freeze and changes to healthcare benefits and retirement may be difficult for some state employees, they are necessary steps to help address the state’s ongoing fiscal challenges. By working together with SEBAC, the state was able to reach an agreement that balances the needs of its employees with the need to maintain fiscal responsibility.