Open letter to NJBPU president

My office has been closely monitoring the negotiation process between Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) System Council U-3, which represents many of JCP&L’s employees.

As you know, an impasse in the discussions regarding health care benefits and other matters has resulted in a work stoppage among approximately 1,350 JCP&L employees represented by the IBEW. This work stoppage commenced on Dec. 7, and has continued through the date of this letter.

It is my understanding that JCP&L has taken steps to continue its services by utilizing its existing work force to perform the functions of those employees who are participating in the work stoppage. JCP&L employees involved in this stoppage are not receiving any compensation or benefits during their time away from work.

While I do not have information with respect to the amount of expenses being “saved” as a result of this suspension of employee benefits, the amount of salary savings being realized by JCP&L during this period is significant. In fact, my estimates indicate that the amount of these savings is approaching $7 million, assuming an average annual salary of $50,000 for these employees.

In an effort to ensure that the benefit of these expense savings is passed on to JCP&L customers, I respectfully request that the N.J. Board of Public Utilities consider this matter in the course of its regulatory oversight.

Please contact me at any time if you have any questions, or if anyone at the NJBPU would be able to provide further insight into this matter.

Michael J. Panter

assemblyman

12th Legislative District