VERIZON CALIFORNIA
BARGAINING REPORT #13
December 23, 2004

Early this morning the Union and the Company reached a 5-year tentative agreement.  The highlights of the agreement are as follows:

• Wages: 4% Lump Sum, effective March 20, 2005 Pension and Savings and Investment eligible.

• Improved and Expanded Recognition Language.
• Enhanced Employment Security Language including Transfer Opportunities and Job Security.
• An additional Personal Holiday effective, January 1, 2008.
• Restored Credited Service time for the 1963 Strike.
• Expanded language for Union Leave time and FMLA protection.
• Improved Minimum Pensions.
• Health Insurance Improvements.
• Upgrade for Graphic System Operators from wage schedule 8 to wage schedule 9.
• Modified Grievance Procedure.
• Reclassification of Equipment Maintainers assigned to National Operations.
• New Tech Title for FIOS work, "Fiber Network Field Technician".
• Business Attire Agreement within the Fiber Network Field Technician work groups.
• Improved language on the administration of overtime.

The Union Bargaining Committee unanimously recommends a "yes" vote on the
Agreement. Explanation meetings will be calendared shortly.

We want to thank all of you for your support during these negotiations.

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday!

Your Bargaining Committee,

Gregg Gibson - Vicki Pallan - James Dudley - Ellen West - Jim Weitkamp