Contract for Pennsylvania government workers nears approval

Members of the largest union in state government appear close to approving a new contract that would raise pay by 7.25 percent over three years and increase their contributions toward health insurance.

The executive director of American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 13 said Tuesday voting is nearly done and he believes the new contract will pass easily.

The proposal will require employees in the state’s wellness plan to contribute 2.5 percent of their salary toward health coverage by July 2018. The current contribution is 2 percent.

Employees will see pay increases of 2.75 percent by the end of next month, 2 percent next July and 2.5 percent by July 2018.

The state also is changing its health plan to include a new deductible and higher copays.