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A fuller truth on Medicare

Posted

To the editor:

In a recent communique to active and retired members of District Council 37, Executive Director Henry Garrido asked that members contact their City Council Members to tell them that they are in favor of amending the NYC Administrative Code 12-126. Mr. Garrido also stated in his memorandum that the Health Stabilization Fund monies had "run out.” 

Mr. Garrido also stated that "there are those who wish to scare you into rejecting any changes we propose. These individuals are not telling you the truth.” The truth of this matter is that back in 2014, the UFT was permitted to utilize $1.1 billion of those funds for the purpose of funding much needed raises for their members without any provisions of restoring those funds from the city.  

Unlike the UFT, DSNY and other MLC employees, much of Mr. Garrido's members both active and retired have pensions amounting to less than $22,000 annually and they cannot afford to pay higher health care costs or continually appeal denials that often accompany requests for medical procedures that are part of a Medicare Advantage plan.

The DC 37 Retirees Association has requested membership in the MLC for the sole purpose of providing helpful suggestions regarding the health care situation but that request was denied by the MLC. The DC 37 Retirees Association continues to be a willing partner to resolve this issue if and when asked. In closing, The DC 37 Retirees Association and its 26,000 members stand opposed to any proposed amendments to Administrative Code 12-126 as it would have a detrimental effect on both active and retired employees and their dependents. 

Robert Gervasi

Robert Gervasi is president of the DC 37 Retirees Association

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