Negotiations Recap for April 30, 2014
This recap details the first bargaining session between the UW and SEIU 1199 to incorporate Research/Hall Health RNs into the SEIU 1199 collective bargaining agreement.
SEIU 1199 Introductory Presentation
SEIU 1199 expressed dissatisfaction that the salaries of Research/Hall Health RNs are lower than those of RNs at Harborview Medical Center, arguing that these groups should be paid the same because both are employed by the UW. SEIU 1199 asserted that the work of Hall Health RNs is the same as that of RNs at Harborview and UWMC, and is perhaps even more intense than the work of acute care or ICU RNs.
SEIU 1199 Initial Proposal
The parties walked through SEIU 1199’s initial contract proposal. Key points included:
Wages – SEIU 1199 proposed aligning salaries and several pay premiums for Research/Hall Health RNs with that of nurses at Harborview Medical Center, retroactive to January 1, 2014. Research RN 1’s would be placed on the RN 2 pay scale and Research RN 2’s would be placed on the RN 3 pay scale.
Educational and Professional Development – SEIU 1199 proposed that UW provide $500 per Research/Hall Health RN full-time equivalent (FTE) each year for continuing education expenses, and pay for required training, conference fees, travel, and other expenses for Research RNs. The union proposed that UW provide 40 hours of educational and professional leave per Research/ Hall Health RN FTE each year.
Layoff Rehire – SEIU 1199 proposed the creation of a rehire list specific to Research RNs, while also allowing for laid-off Research RNs to take a place on the UW RN rehire list.
Job Posting and Transfer – SEIU 1199 proposed that Research RNs be informed via email of any bargaining unit position at least two weeks prior to it being posted externally.
Union Delegates – SEIU 1199 proposed that the Research RN bargaining unit have four union delegates.
Hall Health RN Committee – SEIU 1199 proposed the creation of a committee comprised of two Hall Health RNs along with union and employer representatives.
Next Steps
The next UW-SEIU 1199 bargaining session is scheduled for May 14.