UW Libraries & SEIU 925 Negotiations Recap for September 6, 2022
Background
This recap details the twenty-fourth virtual sessions for the initial collective bargaining agreement between the UW Libraries and SEIU 925. Recaps are published online on the UW Labor Relations website. The parties agreed to ground rules for these negotiations.
Union Counter Proposal
Health and Safety – In response to the Employer, the Union proposed that a reason for denial would be provided in writing if an employee’s request for a temporary alternative assignment during an anticipated University event where they have safety concerns is denied.
Employer Counter Proposals
Transportation, Travel and Commute Reduction – In response to the Union, the Employer proposed that the Employer would upon request, provide the reason for denial of a flexible schedule request for commute trip reduction purposes and that a denial would not be subject to the grievance procedure.
Vacation Leave – In response to the Union, the Employer proposed to reassert its proposal to maintain the current state for the accrual of vacation time off, vacation time off balances, and vacation time off cash out for both Professional Libraries and Press employees and Librarians. The Employer proposed that unless there would be an operational need that requires the employee to work, to the degree possible, vacation time off would be scheduled with employee preference.
Hiring – In response to the Union, the Employer proposed to include language that staffing and recruitment (practices and processes) would be appropriate for Joint Union and Management committee meetings.
Duties and Assignments – In response to the Union, the Employer proposed to clarify that percentages for core duties (80%) and (20%) for research and service are approximate percentages of annual workload. The Employer incorporated language that the Union had proposed, stating that assignment of any additional duties, either core or temporary, require a documented conversation between the Employee and their supervisor to articulate: (1) the nature and expectations of the work, (2) the duration of the work; (3) how current work will be adjusted, reassigned, or reprioritized to accommodate the additional activity.
Next Steps
The next UW Libraries and SEIU 925 bargaining session is scheduled for September 29 and will be held virtually.