The Greenbrier Hotel, owned by Governor Jim Justice and his family, is facing a serious issue that is affecting its employees. On Monday, employees were notified that they may be losing their health care coverage due to nonpayment by the hotel. This news comes as a shock to many employees who have been faithfully paying for their health insurance out of their paychecks.
According to a letter sent by a firm representing the health care company, the Greenbrier is four months delinquent in its contributions to the Health Fund. The firm, Schulte, Roth and Zabel, based out of New York, stated that the Greenbrier owes approximately $2.4 million in delinquent contributions, with an additional $1.2 million in contributions currently, or soon to be, due.
The letter was addressed to the hotel, multiple labor unions, and the company’s CFO, who happens to be Justice’s son-in-law. It alleged that the Greenbrier has been deducting money from employee paychecks for health insurance but has not been forwarding that money to the Health Fund. As a result, the health care company has threatened to stop providing coverage to all of the Greenbrier’s employees if a payment is not made promptly.
Peter Bostic, Chairperson of the Greenbrier Council of Labor Unions, expressed his concern over the situation. He stated that the unions are exploring all legal options available to help the Greenbrier employees. Bostic emphasized that the delinquency of the Greenbrier has put the healthcare benefits of its members in jeopardy and is both morally and legally wrong. He highlighted that the employees have fulfilled their obligations by working hard every day and contributing their portion to the Greenbrier.
The Greenbrier is currently facing financial difficulties and is scheduled to be sold on the Greenbrier County courthouse steps next week to settle a delinquent loan. This impending sale adds further uncertainty for the employees who are already worried about losing their health care coverage.
Despite attempts to reach out to the Greenbrier Hotel Corporation, the CFO and Treasurer Adam C. Long, and the firm Schulte, Roth and Zabel for comments on this issue, none of these entities have responded. This lack of communication only adds to the frustration and anxiety felt by the employees who are uncertain about their future healthcare coverage.
In conclusion, the situation at the Greenbrier Hotel highlights the importance of timely and responsible financial management. The potential loss of health care coverage for employees due to nonpayment is a serious issue that needs to be addressed promptly. The employees, who have been diligently paying for their health insurance, deserve transparency and accountability from their employer. It is crucial for all parties involved to work towards a resolution that ensures the well-being and security of the employees.