With less than a month before our contract expires, our bargaining team forges ahead while facing growing concerns about a backlog of unanswered proposals that address key priorities of the Unit 21 members we represent. And it’s frustrating our team.
“The State’s reluctance to move forward is not without a cost,” said bargaining team member Susie Watt. “It results in a low level of trust in the process, and we want to believe that the State cares and wants to collaborate with us on the well-being of state employees.”
“Right now, what does the State have to offer us except overwork and underpayment?” added Watt.
“We’re being stonewalled on the things that matter most to our employees,” said Unit 21 Chair Bobby Roy. “At the same time, we’re concerned about the $260 health care affordability payment and a bump in our CalPERS contribution that is scheduled to take place at the end of our current contract.”
Unit 21 continues to fight for contract language that recognizes our professionalism and protects our earlier contract wins.
Today, we proposed to roll over section 17.12.21 – it’s language that allows those in Unit 21 to carry over their retirement “relationship” earned at CalSTRS, bypassing any issues that would be affected by their state employment. It’s an important recruiting tool and a huge benefit to retaining our retirement eligibility and status.
We reached tentative agreement with the State on one contract section: 10.13.21 – Access to Work Areas 24 Hours. It’s a win, as this language change further acknowledges that the work of Unit 21 doesn’t have a set schedule and guarantees maximum flexibility to do our work.
You can read the details of these and all current contract articles at contract.seiu1000.org
Unit 21 will return to the table on Monday, June 12. In addition, we’ve made it clear to State negotiators we’re ready to meet at any time to foster progress. To see updates on other bargaining unit contract sessions, please visit the Contract Action Center page at www.seiu1000.org
There’s real truth to the Local 1000 slogan, Stronger Together. We only win a great contract with a strong Local 1000 membership. So, if you’re not already a member, we encourage you to join us today.
And be sure to save your spot for the upcoming June 8 March to the Governor’s mansion here