Qwest representatives told the AP that the contract proposal included raises of more than 9 percent over three years. It also increased pension benefits for new retirees, and it would have increased base pay of sales staff. But it also would have added a monthly premium for health coverage. Previously, employees paid only enrollment fees.
Union workers at Qwest Communications International rejected a proposed three-year contract on Tuesday. But so far, there doesn’t seem to be a threat of a strike.
Union members had authorized a strike when the contract expired in August, but the workers continued working. The two sides reached a tentative agreement days later.
Representatives of the Communications Workers of America and Qwest said they’d meet again this week to continue talks, according to the Associated Press. CWA represents roughly 29,000 Qwest employees in 13 states. Qwest is the primary phone company in 14 Western states.