Sensenbrenner Writes DOL For Help With Tower Retirees' Troubles
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Dear Secretary Chao:
I am writing on behalf of the retirees of Tower Automotive's Milwaukee plant, many of whom reside in my Congressional District. Recently, they received notice that their health insurance premium would increase 560 percent for individuals and 300 percent for families. They were given only until February 9, 2004 to decide if they would continue in the program. This is especially troubling because of a currently unresolved mediation process stemming from earlier attempts by Tower to alter the insurance plan.
I am concerned that the retirees do not have sufficient time to make a decision on this matter. At the very least, I hope that the changes to the plan can be delayed so that the retirees can be afforded more time to contemplate their options. I also request that you evaluate the need and appropriateness of these dramatic premium increases in light of the agreement between the retirees and Tower Automotive. Please advise me of the feasibility of these requests. I appreciate your attention to this time-sensitive matter.
Sincerely,
F. JAMES SENSENBRENNER, JR.,
Member of Congress