Public Employee Press

HHC transit benefit expands to commuter rail and parking

After extensive delays, Health and Hospitals Corp. employees are getting a new expanded transit benefit that goes beyond the current programs for saving money on city subways and buses and now covers commuter railroads such as Metro-North, New Jersey Transit and the Long Island Rail Road as well as Access- A-Ride plans and parking at certain HHC facilities.

Now HHC employees will have the option to save on transportation costs to and from work by paying for LIRR, Metro-North, PATH or other commuter lines with tax-free dollars deducted from their paychecks.

DC 37 negotiated the benefit several years ago but had to fight and win a grievance in arbitration to get the city to put it into effect. Because of changes in the vendor and the regulations, HHC took even longer to implement the additional tax-deferred benefits. DC 37 locals represent about 18,000 HHC employees.

DC 37 insisted on keeping the Premium Metrocard Program in place, and HHC agreed to continue it without change as an option for employees who prefer it. The union is now working to restore this option for city employees.

The union urges HHC employees to read the enrollment material carefully to choose the plan that is best for them and to note that there are fees associated with the debit card plans.

For more information, HHC employees should visit their HHC payroll office. For additional information or questions about the WageWorks Commuter Card, Transit Pass, Access-A-Ride/paratransit or parking options, contact WageWorks at www.wageworks.com or call 1-877-Wage- Works (1-877-924-3967) weekdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.