UW Libraries & SEIU 925 Negotiations Recap for January 26, 2022
Background
This recap details the eighth virtual session for the initial collective bargaining agreement between the UW Libraries and SEIU 925. Recaps are published online on the UW Labor Relations website.
Tentative Agreement
The parties tentatively agreed language also found in the current SEIU 925 CBA in the following article:
- Article – Subordination and Savings Clause
Employer Initial Proposals
Corrective Action – The Employer’s initial proposal is based off of the main SEIU 925 CBA with minor updates to language. The proposal includes representation, coaching, corrective action and dismissal process, counseling, dismissal, demotion, removal of records and grievability.
Grievance Procedure – The Employer’s initial proposal is based off of the main SEIU 925 CBA with minor updates to language. The proposal includes definitions, representation, time limits, guidelines, meetings withdrawal, resolution, filing and processing, arbitration and files.
Management Rights – The Employer’s initial proposal is based off of the main SEIU 925 CBA. The proposal includes management’s ability to control, change and supervise all operations and to direct and assign work to all working forces, unless agreed or modified elsewhere in the CBA.
No Strike/No Lockout – The Employer’s initial proposal is based off of the main SEIU 925 CBA with minor updates to include gender neutral language.
Privacy – The Employer’s initial proposal is based off of the main SEIU 925 CBA with minor updates. The proposal clarifies that the Union may seek a legal remedy as outlined in the Public Records Act (RCW 42.56).
Resignation and Abandonment – The Employer’s initial proposal is based off of the main SEIU 925 CBA. The proposal includes information on resignation, including encouraging employees to provide two weeks ‘notice and provides the information on the process for presumption resignation/abandonment of a position.
Salary Overpayment Recovery – The Employer’s initial proposal is based off of the main SEIU 925 CBA with some updates. The proposal outlines the current process for recovery of a salary or other wage overpayment, including clarifying that time off hours can only be used with ISC approval.
Union Initial Proposals
Health and Safety – The Union’s initial proposal is based off the main SEIU 925 CBA, with some updates. The proposal included added language that the Employer would meet or exceed all federal, state and local public health guidelines. Additionally, the Union proposed language that the Employer will articulate and enforce a zero tolerance for hate speech, transphobia, racism and other actions again marginalized communities. Further, the Union proposed that personal protective equipment would be provided at no cost. The Union’s proposal contained language to establish safety and health committees on all campuses within 30 days post ratification and included language that the employer will offer a variety of ergonomic equipment and adjustments or assessments upon request. The Union proposed the Employer would provide private rooms in the workplace for wellness per Article X – Employee Facilities. Finally, this proposal included language that states the governing operations should there be a public health related guidance that alters operations, which include telework, supplied equipment, and accommodations such as modification to work schedules, assignments, or deadlines with input from the employee.
Employee Facilities – The Union’s initial proposal is based off the main SEIU 925 CBA, with some updates. The Union proposed that there should be at least one gender-neutral and ADA-accessible restroom in every building and in large buildings, strive for one on every floor with all locations within the Libraries having clear, prominent and consistent signage with the goal of sustaining a safe environment. Finally, this proposal includes language that wellness room access includes medical needs, lactation, religious and spiritual practice.
Next Steps
The next UW Libraries and SEIU 925 bargaining session is scheduled for February 2 and will be held virtually.