Buyout offer expanded

Workers at factories that are to be closed or sold have been offered early retirement. The plan covers hourly workers at Sterling Heights, Conner Avenue, St. Louis North, St. Louis South, Twinsburg Stamping, and Kenosha Engine; those whose combined age and years with the company are more than 85 years, and who are over 60 years old, and have been with the company for at least ten years, can get a $50,000 one-time payment plus $25,000 towards a new Chrysler LLC vehicle.

Those who are 50 to 62 years old, with ten or more years of qualified work, who are at St. Louis (North or South), Twinsburg, or Kenosha, can retire without having their benefit reduced. A similar plan is available at Sterling Heights and Conner Avenue to those 55-62 years old, with ten years of qualified service.

Those who have less than ten years with the company (but more than one) can get a $75,000 single payment plus $25,000 towards a new vehicle, while those with ten or more years can get $115,000 plus the $25,000 vehicle credit; but only one year of health coverage and no dental.

St. Louis Assembly plants who cannot qualify for these plans, but who would within 2 years, can get 85% of their base pay until they are eligible to retire.