Negotiations Recap for May 15, 2015
This recap details the second session for the renewal of the collective bargaining agreement between the UW and WSNA.
Discussion of Proposals
The parties spent much of the session discussing and clarifying the proposals delivered to date. The parties also discussed outstanding elements of WSNA’s request for information.
Tuition Exemption Discussion
Administration of Tuition Exemption – In response to WSNA’s desire to discuss the contract’s tuition exemption section, Robert Rhodes from the UW Registrar’s office attended to explain the UW’s tuition exemption program. Tuition exemption is administered through the UW Registrar’s office but policy changes are handled through the UW Board of Regents.
Fee-based Programs – The union voiced concern that several courses, including the Nurse Practitioner’s program, no longer qualify for tuition exemption. UW explained that some programs are “tuition-based,” which receive state funding, and some are “fee-based,” or self-sustaining. Courses in fee-based programs do not qualify for tuition exemption. While several UW programs have moved to a fee-based model, many remain state-funded.
Next Steps
The next UW-WSNA bargaining session is scheduled for May 21.