Latest CPI Increase Means $479 Annual Pay Hike

The Consumer Price Index rose in January, the last month of the most recent six-month Cost-of-Living measuring period under the 2006 National Agreement. The rise in the CPI gives APWU-represented employees an annual raise of $479.

The Cost-Of-Living Adjustment will be effective March 15, and will be reflected in April 4 paychecks (Pay Period 07-08). The adjustment will amount to a 23-cent per hour increase, or $18.40 per pay period. The January index represents the completion of the third (of eight) six-month COLA measuring periods in the 2006-2010 Collective Bargaining Agreement.

“Cost-of-living adjustments demonstrate the value of our contract and the strength of our union,” said APWU President William Burrus. “Coming just one month after across-the-board upgrades, the COLA means our members will enjoy a substantial increase in pay over a short period of time.” APWU members who began the year at Level 5 Step O will realize an increase of more than $1,700 per year as a result of the upgrade and the March COLA.

There will be five more COLA adjustments under the 2006 National Agreement. After receiving no adjustment a year ago, employees received a $686 raise on Sept. 1, 2007. With the latest adjustment, the COLA raises in the current contract have totaled $1,165.