ALCOA retiree benefit case appears headed for trial

The ALCOA retired benefit case is going to a jury.

That’s the indication by Judge Thomas Phillips after a hearing Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Knoxville.

Attorneys for both sides were asking the judge for a summary judgement in their favor and avoiding a trial.

“I’m not at all certain this case can be disposed of in summary judgement. I want to know when you can be ready to go to trial,” Phillips told the attorneys.

After huddling, the lawyers said Dec. 8 was the earliest date their calendars would allow both sides to be ready to present before a jury. The judge’s calendar will determine whether that is possible.

The lawsuit brought by ALCOA retirees claims the contract ratified between the aluminum company and the United Steelworkers union violated previous agreements and increased healthcare costs of the company’s retirees.

The company maintains that a cap on medical expenses had been discussed and agreed to in four different negotiations with the union.