At the bargaining table this week, Bargaining Unit 4 introduced financial proposals that reflect the priorities identified by members in this year’s Bargaining Survey. Issues that are deeply and widely felt by BU4 members.
To advocate for our Unit and highlight the working conditions they face every day, Unit 4 members Barry Lee and Bernadette Hernandez stepped up to provide powerful testimony as Subject Matter Experts.
“I’m not only speaking for myself, but for my fellow employees and those that will come after me.”
–Bernadette Hernandez, Unit 4 Member, Board of Registered Nursing
Our team would like to thank Barry and Bernadette for their commitment and speaking out on behalf of our members. When members get involved, they make a meaningful impact at the bargaining table. The State also expressed sincere appreciation for our members taking the time to share their expertise and firsthand experience.
“Speak up, speak out, become a member and join now!”
—Barry Lee, Unit 4 Member, Board of Registered Nursing
Also at the table, we protected critical life insurance benefits for Caltrans employees that put their safety on the line while serving the citizens of California.
The State declined several of our financial proposals including increasing the Lottery sales bonus and an increase to the out of state differential.
We pushed back against the State’s unwillingness to strengthen the Upward Mobility and 20/20 program language. We rebutted their uninspired proposal of status quo, and resubmitted proposals emphasizing that upward mobility is a unit priority and the Unit 4 bargaining team will continue this fight!
“Although we are disappointed with the State’s lackluster responses, we are not discouraged and will continue to push for upward mobility language that helps Bargaining Unit 4 members further their careers and promote through State service. Maintaining the status quo does not reflect the realities of today’s workforce. With advances in technology and AI, the State must take a more structured approach to reskilling and upward mobility to ensure employees are prepared for the future. This is a priority for Bargaining Unit 4 and we will make sure the State understands that.”
— Jose Eric Alcaraz, Alt. Vice Chair, Unit 4
Stay tuned for more updates and news from your Bargaining Unit 4 team!