There were mixed results today at the Unit 4 bargaining table, and our team continues to be frustrated by the lack of respect shown by the State as we work to advance the wages and working conditions for the Office and Allied workers we represent.
“The State’s problematic behavior is slowing progress,” said Karen Jefferies, Chair, Bargaining Unit 4. “They are responding to our proposals slowly, and it appears that they’re not prepared to have substantive conversations on our issues.”
In one example, the State didn’t want to even recognize or respect the hard work of a Joint Labor-Management Committee (JLMC) regarding the Scratcher Sales Bonus for CA Lottery employees. Rather than following the recommendations of this JLMC, State negotiators are instead proposing takeaways. What’s worse, this is a JLMC that was formed at the suggestion of the State to solve a hotly-contested economic issue that hasn’t been updated in more than two decades.
Unit 4 has proposed the formation of another JLMC, to focus and solve a range of issues at DMV. After research and a thoughtful presentation—made weeks ago—the State still isn’t been willing to negotiate.
“They’re giving us a number of excuses, many of which we’ve heard before,” said Tom Krieger Vice Chair of Bargaining Unit 4. “They’re either unprepared or don’t have the authority to bargain.”
There are a number of outstanding proposals from both sides of the table that are still unresolved. “Our team is committed to bringing home a contract, but the State has to step up,” added Jefferies.
Today, we reached tentative agreement with the State on these contract sections, preserving our rights from previous contract wins:
- 11.23.4 – Out Of State Pay Differential
- 11.37.4 – Dictaphone Differential
- 13.36.4 – Library Technical Assistant (Safety) Upward Mobility
After a number of back-and-forth offers, we proposed contract section 1.2.4 – Designation of Confidential Positions – as rollover language, and several of our economic proposals were moved to the master table for further negotiations.
You can read the details of these and all current contract articles at contract.seiu1000.org
Unit 4 returns to the table next week, on Tuesday, June 27. However, with just ten days remaining until our contract expires, bargaining sessions could happen at any time.
To keep updated, and 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 22 Rally at the Governor’s Office in Los Angeles here.