1. CDL Petition and Bargaining Preparation:

• CDL Differential Push:

  • Our union aims to secure additional pay for employees required to hold Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs), given the added responsibility and workload compared to peers without this requirement.
  • This has been a long-standing issue; earlier attempts failed due to low engagement.

• Petition Strategy:

  • Members were encouraged to sign a petition available via QR code, sub-local website, and forthcoming email communications. Petition Here
  • Suggestions for visibility campaigns (stickers, virtual backgrounds, etc.) were made to show collective support.

• Bargaining Process:

  • Bargaining delegates will meet next Tuesday to review proposals and draft contract language.
  • Collaboration with other agencies, such as Forestry and Agriculture, was highlighted to increase bargaining power.

2. Science Division Restructuring:

• Background:

  • A restructuring plan is in its early stages to address inefficiencies in the science division. Our union raised concerns about job security, especially for seasonal employees who might lose recall rights if position titles or numbers change.

• Union Action:

  • Submitted an information request to clarify potential impacts on positions and funding.
  • Engaged in dialogue with management (HR and Fish Division leadership) to ensure oversight.

• Outcomes:

  • Management assured there are no concrete plans to cut jobs, reclassify positions, or force relocations at this stage.
  • Our union will monitor the situation and elevate members’ concerns during ongoing discussions.

3. Bargaining Surveys and CAT Formation:

• Bargaining Surveys:

  • Members were reminded to complete follow-up surveys to inform our union about priorities for the upcoming bargaining cycle.
  • Those not receiving the surveys were urged to update their contact information.

• Contract Action Team (CAT):

  • CAT members will act as communicators to engage coworkers, encourage participation, and keep everyone informed.
  • Training for CAT members is scheduled for December 4. Volunteers were encouraged to join.

4. Reclassification Process:

• Guidance for Employees:

  • Employees should compare their duties to state classification standards and others in similar roles using Workday tools to build strong cases.
  • Support from stewards is available, but employees must gather documentation of their job duties and comparator positions.

• Success Story:

  • A recent case resulted in seven years of back pay, showcasing the importance of persistence and documentation.

5. Temporary Employee Concerns:

• Issues Raised:

  • Temporary employees lack access to benefits like healthcare and paid time off, even when transitioning from BSA or LD roles.
  • Our union sees the unfairness of these conditions, especially when temp roles are used as a cost-cutting measure.

• Union’s Stance:

  • Bargaining proposals can include limiting temp positions, particularly for roles traditionally filled by seasonals or LDs.
  • Members were encouraged to share personal stories to strengthen the argument during negotiations.

6. Statewide Equal Pay Review:

• Appeals Update:

  • Employees who appealed pay discrepancies from the equal pay review are beginning to receive responses. Approved appeals include back pay retroactive to June 1, 2024.

• Clarifications:

  • Members were advised to include all relevant work and volunteer experience in Workday to strengthen future pay reviews.
  • We will follow up on how former employees will receive retroactive pay for successful appeals.

7. Other Topics:

• Job Rotations for Seasonals:

  • Currently restricted for seasonals, but our union sees it as a critical tool for professional growth and retention.
  • Advocating for changes to allow seasonals to participate in job rotations during their off-seasons.

• Labor Management Committee:

  • Members requested an update on the committee’s work, to be addressed in the next meeting.

Next Steps and Member Actions:

• Complete bargaining surveys and CAT training signups.
• Share the CDL petition with coworkers and encourage participation.
• Contact HR or our union for issues with equal pay appeals, reclassification, or temporary positions.
• Communicate the impact of temporary roles and lack of benefits to managers.