Members at Rainbow Apparel Improve Insurance, Wages and More

Workers at dozens of Rainbow Apparel stores in New York and New Jersey have ratified an excellent new three year contract.

Congratulations to the union bargaining committee members for their hard work: Carmen Cruzado, Kasunder Alford, Susan Alexander, Lawson Lawrence Sr., Niesandra Ganesh, Alberta Stewart, Mamie Young and Gladys Nefoussi.

CONTRACT HIGHLIGHTS:

HOLIDAYS: Washington's Birthday changed to President's Day. Total 10 paid Holidays.

BEREAVEMENT PAY: One day for grandparent or grandchild. Four days for father, mother, father-in-law, mother-in-law, sister, brother, spouse, domestic partner, or legal guardian. Bereavement days may be used during the 30 day period following notice of death.

VACATION: Unused vacation pay will be paid out upon resignation with at least two weeks notice.

WAGES: Hourly increases will be effective on the following dates. This year's increase will be retroactive to March 1, 2008.

3/1/2008 3/1/2009 3/1/2010

$.35 $.35 $.30

MINIMUM RATES:

10 years of service: $9/hour

15 years of service: $10/hour

20 years of service: $11/hour

25 years of service: $12/hour

If you have reached the number of years listed above as of March 1, 2008 and are below the minimums listed, you will be given an increase to the new minimum or the hourly raise listed above, whichever is greater. Thereafter, in any year you reach the required number of years as of March 1, you will be given an increase to the new minimum or the hourly raise listed above, whichever is greater.

HEALTH INSURANCE: The company will increase their contribution to the Union Health Fund in order to improve members' health benefits.

401K: The company will make deductions for employees who choose to contribute to the union 401K plan on a voluntary basis effective July 1, 2008.