A state judge keeps Newark teachers on edge about health benefits
Cerf and Christie: Will they–and George Norcross– determine health benefits for Newark teachers?
The future of health benefits for 4,000 Newark teachers and their families is still precarious despite a recent court ruling that stopped the state from unilaterally changing prescription drug providers. Although both the Newark Teachers Union (NTU) and the state-appointed schools superintendent claimed victory after a Jan. 29 court hearing, the truth is the issue is still unresolved.
Superior Court Judge Donald Kessler did stop Christopher Cerf, Gov. Chris Christie’s agent running the city’s schools, and NTU President John Abeigon declared a “victory” or the union. At the same time, Cerf put out a statement saying Kessler supported his view that the superintendent has the “management prerogative” to unilaterally change the prescription provider.
So who won?
Both, really. And neither.
Now that a transcript of the court session has been released, it’s clear what really happened.
Abeigon was right: Kessler stopped Cerf from choosing a provider recommended by a brokerage firm run by George Norcross III, the Democratic boss of South A state judge keeps Newark teachers on edge about health benefits |: