×

Educators applaud proposed PEIA change

Local officials say many more problems need addressed

PARKERSBURG — Local educators are applauding a planned change to a PEIA program, but teachers in some school systems are looking at a possible walkout to protest low pay and increasing costs.

Locally no actions have been announced. The Wood County American Federation of Teachers held an informational meeting last week in Parkersburg for teachers and staff. A similar meeting sponsored by the Wood County Education Association is planned for this week, and officials are expected to hold a public meeting in the near future.

Public employees throughout West Virginia are expressing concerns over a planned 1 percent pay increase, which coupled with increased PEIA public insurance premiums and changes to benefits, will be negated entirely or in some cases lead to a pay decrease.

Gov. Jim Justice announced Monday he would ask for a requirement of PEIA, the controversial Go365 program, to be made voluntary instead of mandatory. The program would require employees to wear Fitbit devices to track activity and to earn points. Critics say employees are assessed a monthly penalty if they do not meet the minimum required points.

Gregory Merritt, president of AFT Wood County and secretary for AFT West Virginia, said the latest action on PEIA’s Go365 requirement is a positive first step.

“Many folks have reported that they find Go365 to be cumbersome and difficult to manage,” Merritt said in an email. “The governor’s decision surrounding Go365 is a good one. It is important during these days in which there is much unrest for public employees and teachers to see a sense of support coming from Charleston, from lawmakers and policy makers.

“This unrest is not going to be completely alleviated by this action by the governor, but it is a good step.”

Bruce Boston, president of the Wood County Education Association, said he was encouraged by the governor’s announcement, but added it does not yet address many of the other issues surrounding the program or PEIA.

“The announcement did not address the $500 penalty on deductibles nor does it address the lack of funding for PEIA,” he said in an emailed statement. “The governor has recommended that PEIA drop the $25 per month penalty for members who do not achieve the 3,000 points in plan year 2019. As I understand it, the Public Finance Board, which came up with this scheme to begin with, would have to approve any changes,” put forth by the governor.

Teachers in three West Virginia counties — Logan, Mingo and Wyoming — are reportedly planning walk-out days to protest low pay and high insurance costs.

Both Merritt and Boston were asked about the planned walkouts in other counties, but neither commented.

“I would encourage everyone to continue contacting the governor’s office and our legislators to demand changes in PEIA funding, providing a realistic pay increase for all public employees, and maintaining current seniority laws,” Boston said.

“We must focus on solutions,” Merritt said. “Our children need to see a bright future and our state needs to grow economically. I firmly believe a high-quality education will allow both of those to happen.”

Local community members have announced an informational rally will be held at 3:45 p.m. Friday in front of Emerson Elementary School. The rally will be to show support for teachers, service personnel and other public employees.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today