City healthcare dispute back in court

PROVIDENCE, R. I. (WPRI) - One day after a Superior Court judge barred Providence from changing health care coverage for city workers, the two sides returned to court, for a private meeting.

During today's closed-door meeting, both the City and the Union agreed to enter into speedy mediation, to reach a binding agreement before the court-appointed deadline of January 1.

The issue began months ago, when Mayor David Cicilline solicited a bid that would change the workers' health plan from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island, to UnitedHealthcare of NewEngland.

The mayor claims the switch would save the city more than $11 million over three years. However union leaders protested the change in benefits, and took the matter to court, resulting in yesterday's ruling.

Talks are expected to begin the day after Christmas, and both parties will be meeting with Chief Justice Frank Williams over the weekend to update him on any developments.