May 14, 2026
“The union’s goal here is stability. Stable staffing. Safer institutions. And pay that reflects the work being performed.”
— Eric Murray, Chair of Bargaining Unit 15
As negotiations continue, Unit 15 is focusing on the issues that matter most to our members: fair pay, secure retirement, and workplace safety. Our team has already successfully secured 8 Tentative Agreements and we’re working hard to keep the momentum moving forward!
“Your bargaining team has been preparing for the past three years, andyou can feel the work we have put in. We have made real progress. We locked in protections, moved key proposals forward, and kept pressure on the State aroundpay, retirement, and safety.”
—Francis Vierra, BUNC Bargaining Team Member
On Monday, May 11, Unit 15 proposed increases to our Uniform Replacement and Boot Allowance. We also presented a brand new proposal introducing Fire Mission Pay for Unit 15 employees.
“Boot allowance is so important to all of us. They wear out before the year ends causing back, knee and hip problems. We struggle buying one pair of boots with the allowance we get and we often need at least three pairs a year because of our harsh working conditions.”
—Karen Maddox-Long, BUNC Bargaining Team Member
📸 We Need YOU To Help Us Show the State Why Our Uniform Allowance Is So Important
Send [email protected] photos of your work boots! Unit 15 members spend long hours on our feet and the condition of our uniforms tell the story of the hard work we do everyday.
Stay tuned for more updates and ways to get involved this Contract Campaign! Check your inboxes every Thursday morning for the latest bargaining news.