Contract Bargaining Update: One down!

Our first bargaining session is complete! We came, we saw, we caucused! Yesterday members of the bargaining committee and SEIU representatives met with University representatives on Zoom from 1-5pm. 

After introductions, representatives from the University proposed a set of ground rules, or ways the bargaining process will be governed. Our bargaining committee then went into a breakout room to discuss what was presented and decide on any proposed changes to those ground rules. When proposals are presented to one side, the other side goes into a caucus, where they discuss together what was presented and decide on any changes they want to counterpropose. These caucuses continue until all parties agree on the language in the proposal.


We were able to agree on several straightforward ground rules, like telling the other side when we are done for the day to ensure one side does not stay in a never-ending caucus. However, one ground rule where we could not agree immediately was about who can attend sessions. We agreed that bargaining sessions will be open for all bargaining unit members to come and observe, but we also wanted to make sure that all union members could come and share their story and perspective if it is relevant to the proposals being discussed. That’s why we countered with an additional provision that allows for speakers outside of the bargaining committee, so that as union members you may be able to contribute directly to proposals that impact you or to share information about current policies. After some initial pushback, the University accepted this counterproposal.


We were able to come to an agreement on the ground rules, and once they are signed, we will have our first official Tentative Agreement (TA). 


Next, we presented our non-economic proposals (proposals that do not cost the University money) to the University representatives. After a brief caucus, we were out of time, so we look forward to going through the University’s questions and counterproposals to our non-economic proposals next time.


Tornado sirens joined some of us for our first bargaining session! We hope to continue our bargaining without further threat of natural disasters!


Continue to show your support for our union by wearing buttons and changing Zoom backgrounds to our logo! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to keep up with the latest updates. Reach out to us with questions or ideas through social media, weekly lunch break office hours, or by asking a bargaining committee member.



-NULWU Bargaining Team

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