Rate Retention Brings Member $4,150 More

Thanks to the efforts of Union Steward Ralph Ruiz, Ken Sawyer received $4,150 in back pay to ensure his contractual rights for rate retention were upheld. Ken appreciated the Union support and the value of having an advocate to pursue his case. He noted, "Steward Ralph Ruiz was instrumental in getting my pay corrected, which has been a lifesaver since I am now laid-off."

Ken enlisted Union help when he realized there was a problem with his medical downgrade following an on-the-job injury. When the downgrade occurred, the Company somehow noted the wrong date by almost a year. The date was important because Ken was entitled to maintain his pay rate prior to the injury for five years under Article 16.9 (rate retention) .

Thankfully, Ken kept accurate documentation on the entire situation. When Ralph looked into the situation, he immediately noticed the downgrade date was handwritten and changed in Ken's work history. Ralph asked HR to explain why the date had been changed. When no acceptable answer could be found, Ralph requested the record be corrected to reflect the proper date and additional compensation be paid to ensure Ken's rate retention was accurate.

The initial investigation brought Ken approximately $3,300 in back pay at the higher rate. Yet there was more to be corrected. After Ken was laid-off on December 14, he realized his layoff benefits were also being paid at the incorrect lower rate. Once again, Ken turned to the Union. Steward Ruiz contacted HR who corrected the pay, which brought Ken $850 in additional severance benefits.

Business Rep Susan Palmer applauded these efforts, "Being aware of your rights under the contract is very important. This case brought $4,150 for the employee because he knew what he was entitled to under rate retention and had the documentation to back his case. Steward Ralph Ruiz did an excellent job pursuing the matter to ensure the employee was properly compensated, not only while working, but also following his layoff."