Workers Protests Cuts at UCSF
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) _ Union workers shouted their displeasure outside of UCSF Medical Center on Friday, as many are unhappy about the prospect of cuts to retirement benefits.
Several hundred members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees carried signs reading, "Retirement with dignity, no cuts."
Union board member Rik Sandoval said lower wage earners, including security officers, health technicians and custodians can't afford to lose benefits.
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"UC management deems it okay not to contribute money and give executives their retirement packages," said Sandoval. "For example, the president of UC, after seven years of work gets $350,000 in return."
UC set up a task force about a year and a half ago to find ways to put pension benefits on a sustainable track and recommendations are forthcoming.
UC Vice President Dwaine Duckett released a statement calling the union's position "misinformation" and said the university considers competitive pay and benefits a component in attracting and retaining its employees.
