The two labor organizations representing 65,000 workers at Verizon have called off a planned strike, citing significant labor progress and a willingness to return to the negotiating table. Although both sides have expressed optimism about the possibility of a settlement, the Communications Workers of America have maintained that there is much bargaining left before either side can come to a successful negotiating position. One major issue in negotiations is the insistence of Verizon that its workers contribute toward health insurance.
See "Verizon Unions Postpone Strike, Citing Progress", Steven Greenhouse, The New York Times, August 3, 2008