AP sources: Obama to meet with union officials about proposed tax on high-cost health plans

AP sources: Obama, unions to talk health care tax

WASHINGTON — Union officials say President Barack Obama plans to meet with them next week to discuss their concerns about a proposed tax on high-cost insurance plans that would help pay for his health care overhaul plan.

The officials say they view the meeting Monday as a chance to forcefully make their case that the tax is bad policy and bad politics. Unions contend that taxes on so-called Cadillac plans would be passed along to workers.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity Thursday because negotiations are ongoing on a final health care bill. Obama hopes to sign the bill as early as next month.

The meeting is expected to include leaders from the AFL-CIO, Service Employees International Union and other labor organizations.