Verizon Unions to Offer Health-Plan Consolidation to End Dispute

Verizon Communications unions representing 45,000 workers are preparing to propose the consolidation of health-care plans next week, as a step toward ending a labor dispute that began over the summer.

The unions will suggest putting their members on the same health plan, which would save the company money, rather than asking them to begin paying premiums, said Bill Huber, a business manager for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Verizon and the unions haven't been able to reach agreement on a new contract since the old one expired in August. Workers went on strike Aug. 7 and later returned to their jobs as negotiations continue. The unions also plan to protest and pass out leaflets at Verizon Wireless locations and Apple stores next week, during the expected launch of the next iPhone. Workers will ask consumers to delay buying the iPhone 5 until Verizon agrees to a new contract.