BREAKING: GM Health-Care Pain Spreads

Dental care is now subject to an annual $100 deductable for a family and an additional $5 per month contribution. Crowns will become even more expensive, with a doubling of the contribution -- now you will have to pay 40% of the cost.

The good news is that the Flexible Spending Account for health will be increased from $5,000 to $7,500. This will allow for employees to put away more tax free dollars throughout the year but they should beware of the need to spend those dollars. The dependent care account will remain at $5,000.

The Flexible Compensation Payment for employees is to be suspended, but they will retain the flex comp additional days without having to pay for them; that's five days for regular active employees and three days for flexible service employees.

Additional changes affecting all drivers under company vehicle programs are due to be announced later.

GM says in its announcement to the employees that "It is difficult to implement these changes considering the many contributions each of you make on behalf of our Company. Unfortunately, the times require them. We attempted to avoid modifying those compensation and benefits areas that you have told us are of greatest importance to you. Your understanding and continued support are genuinely appreciated."