Changes in union payroll deductions are necessary when the cost of dues increase or a member chooses to participate in the dental program. In the case of payroll deductions for members who join the union dental program, the cost of the dental program is added to the union dues for payroll deduction as a convenience to members. The union separates dues from premiums and pay the premiums. In the case of dues increases, by-laws stipulate that Local 704 dues automatically increase in accordance with national increases and no local vote is required.

In either case, each member will need to submit a new 1187. There is no blanket, automatic upgrade for union dues increases or for all dental plan members at once. It is the individual member's responsibility to make sure they keep abreast of costs and in coordination with the union re-submit the 1187 accordingly. This is what the USEPA requires. Surely this is a hassle and may even discourage potential and existing union members but it is done in the name of employee protection from inadvertent increases.

If you joined and your union dues are not being deducted, contact the union office immediately. You may have to work with human resources to get it done and that will take much persistence.