Contract Negotiations Update
From HGEA, May 17, 2019
HGEA and your Unit Negotiating Teams are taking the fight for a better contract to the interest arbitration process. Interest arbitration is our Union’s remedy to settle contract disputes. By statute we do not have the right to strike; however, now is the time to stand together in unity as we present our best possible arguments, expert witnesses and member testimony to the arbitration panels in the coming months.
This is each Unit's chance to have their stories, issues and concerns heard by the neutral arbitrator. The Employers will and have already argued that they cannot afford to pay raises and are offering ZERO for the next two years. However, our expert witnesses will testify that the Employers are in good financial condition, that the economy is still strong, and that they do have the ability to pay.
“Your teams are seeking equitable, not necessarily equal, contracts compared to what other public sector unions have received,” stated HGEA Executive Director Randy Perreira. “We understand the hardship of waiting for an arbitrated award, but HGEA and your teams believe that now is the time to stand up and fight for what we believe in.”
Over the coming months, each Unit will have its chance to present their members’ case to the panel. We will keep you informed of the Units' priorities and the arbitration dates as they get closer.
Note: Unit 9 has completed their arbitration hearing. We anticipate a decision will be rendered early this summer.
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