Increased Premiums and Co-Pays are Illegal and Cruel

Workers across the state report that UC has illegally implemented increased co-pays—which was one of the bases for our November unfair labor practice strike at UCSF—and has now made new changes to premiums.

Increased monthly co-insurance of $150 for specialty drugs hit the lowest paid workers hardest and are especially cruel to those of us who need these drugs for ourselves or family members battling life-threatening illnesses or just to live happy and productive lives. UC made these changes even though unilateral changes are unlawful during bargaining, despite our active unfair labor practice charges over this illegal action.

“The increase in specialty drug co-insurance, from $40 to $150, has a significant financial impact on my family and countless other patients who are facing similar increases. Such increases can mean difficult decisions between paying for essential treatments or other basic needs, further exacerbating the financial burdens that already come with managing chronic health conditions.”

Judd Laraway
UPTE Bargaining Team Member
UC San Diego Senior Physician Assistant

UC has also increased premiums for those whose January 1, 2025 salary would have put them in a new pay band. For those who were moved from Pay Band 1 to 2, this may have more than doubled your monthly premium—again, hitting the lowest-paid workers hardest.

UC's refusal to respect its legal obligations in the face of our November strike at UCSF shows the urgency of our escalation to a statewide strike vote on February 3rd. Please take the time now to make a plan with all your coworkers to vote on the first day of voting to send UC a loud and clear message.

UC wants us to believe we can't beat their healthcare cuts, short-staffing, and more—but we know we can, just as we beat their attempts to increase our healthcare costs and cut our retirement benefits in 2013 and 2019.

In solidarity,

Dan Russell
UPTE President
UPTE Bargaining Team Chief Negotiator
UC Berkeley Business Technical Support Analyst 3