The Saginaw Chippewa Tribe of Michigan is making an across-the-board reduction in health benefits amid a move to ensure greater "financial stability," Chief Fred Cantu said.

In a letter to all employees, Cantu said the tribe will no longer pay the full cost of health care. Employees will be assessed 10 percent of the cost of their coverage, a rate that is still lower than the national average.

Cantu said the change was necessary due to "economic realities" in the state. He said the tribe will consider a reorganization of its entire enterprise, hinting of possible layoffs or transfers.

The tribe was a client of convicted lobbyist Jack Abramoff.

Get the Story:
Tribe plans benefit cut for employees (The Mount Pleasant Morning Sun 9/29)

Relevant Links:
Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe - http://www.sagchip.org

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