LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Mediators in Detroit’s federal
bankruptcy case say building trade unions agree to contribute to a fund
to cover retirees’ benefits.
Republican state House Speaker Jase
Bolger of Marshall made union contributions to the pensions a condition
for state aid, designed to protect the Detroit Institute of Arts’
collection from sale to cover the costs.
U.S. District Court
mediators issued a statement Monday saying the Michigan Building and
Constructions Trades council "will be participating in the so-called
‘grand bargain’" by contributing an undisclosed amount to retiree health
costs.
MLive.com says Bolger calls the union move a "huge step forward."
A
House committee vote is scheduled Tuesday on giving $195 million to an
$816 million package to help Detroit emerge from bankruptcy.
Foundations, philanthropists and the museum also are contributing.