Support the Workers of Orange and Rockland Utilities

Workers at Orange & Rockland are Fighting to Maintain Basic Standards!

Workers at Orange & Rockland Utilities, members of IBEW 503, like so many other Americans have become victims of corporate greed. Send a letter to decision makers at the company to support a fair resolution to their contract dispute.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: The Hard-Working Employees of O&R Deserve Better

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am writing to express my concerns about the stalled contract negotiations between Orange & Rockland Utilities and the IBEW 503. As a consumer I appreciate the dedicated and responsive service that is provided by your employees and I am proud to support a union company like Orange & Rockland Utilities.

However, as a union member I am very disturbed by the tone of contract negotiations. These are our friends, neighbors, and fellow union brothers and sisters. I will not sit idly by while basic protections such as medical coverage and pension protections that these workers earned over the years are dismantled in your pursuit of the bottom line.

I am asking that you return to the table and fairly negotiate a contract that takes into consideration the dedicated quality service that these workers preform for your company. That would exemplify the meaning of good faith bargaining.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
June 02, 2009

Background Information

In 2008, Consolidated Edison Company of New York (the parent company of O&R) reported $4.38 EPS (earnings per share). This represented an 18.5% increase from 2007. In 2007, CECONY reported $3.49 EPS. This represented a 15% increase from 2006. How can those earnings justify drastic cuts?

To mention a few items of contention:

The Company wants cut exisiting medical benefits while drastically increasing out-of-pocket expenses.
The Company seeks to cut retiree benefits.
Eliminate pensions for new employees.

Corporate greed - or the bottom line as they call it - is out to take more hostages in our community. But we can make a difference. You hold the power! As consumers of Orange and Rockland Utilities your voice is powerful. Make it heard. Let the company know how you feel about their tactics at the bargaining table.