Civil Service and P&A employees may participate in this program if they meet the eligibility requirements described below. Discussions are currently underway with AFSCME and Teamster leadership regarding the participation of AFSCME and Teamster employees. We will share updates for AFSCME and Teamsters as soon as it is available. You may have seen (or may yet see) communications that also lists IBEW in this program. This reference is to Radio and Broadcast Technicians who participate in the University’s retirement program. Building Trades represented by the IBEW and the other Trades unions are not eligible for this program since their unions provide benefits to their members through their union organizations.

36-Month Medical & Dental Subsidy

RIO is a one-time opportunity for voluntary retirement. Eligible employees would have 36 months of medical and dental coverage from their retirement date, as if they were still working. The 36 month coverage would be at the same level as they currently enjoy. For example, if both you and your spouse/same-sex domestic partner are currently covered then both of you would be covered under this program.

Who’s eligible?

Employees currently working at least 30 hours per week that also are either:

• Age 55 with a minimum of 5 years of service
• Age 50 with a minimum of 15 years of service
• Any age with 30 years of service

To take advantage of this program you must elect this program on or before August 1, 2008, and must retire at a date mutually acceptable to you and your supervisor, but no later than the last day of your 08-09 appointment. (For most employees this will be June 5, 2009).

More details:

If you would like more details please contact the OHR benefits service team at 612.624.9090 (option 2). You can also find more information on their website www.umn.edu/ohr/benefits.

FM Picnic Reminder

Just want to remind you to make sure the FM Picnic is on your summer calendars. We’ll be getting together for food and fun on June 21. We are working on a big day for you and your families.

Mike