WHEREAS:

Studies show that preventive medicine can eliminate illness or provide early detection of an otherwise costly medical condition and that healthy lifestyles can help to prevent illness; and

WHEREAS:

The benefits of wellness programs typically include reduced absenteeism, less severe illness and faster recovery, increased job satisfaction, reduced stress levels, and lower health care costs. Disability claims can also be reduced because mentally and physically healthy people tend to have fewer accidents; and

WHEREAS:

Wellness programs can help to reduce or eliminate illness by providing regular health screenings and healthy lifestyle educational programs.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME councils and locals attempt to negotiate wellness programs covering employees and their dependents; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That such wellness programs include coverages such as health screening, physical fitness activities, smoking cessation, alcohol and drug awareness, safety and accident prevention education, stress management instruction, and nutrition and weight management classes; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME provide the appropriate technical assistance and training programs to implement new wellness programs or improve those which already exist.

SUBMITTED BY:

Cecil W. Tibbetts, Delegate
AFSCME Local 2975, Council 75
Oregon