Update on Latest Negotiations with SHENS-UAW Local 7902, Student Health Employees
The university bargaining committee met on August 14 for the second time with representatives of SHENS-UAW Local 7902 (SHENS), the union representing our Student Health Employees.
No Response to Our Ground Rules or Opening Proposal
The SHENS bargaining committee did not provide a counter proposal to the university’s suggested ground rules for negotiations. Having agreed-upon ground rules is helpful to set expectations and help the process proceed smoothly.
The union has also not responded to the series of proposals which we presented on July 17. SHENS presented two proposals: one regarding university provided uniforms and to expand retirement benefits. The union also presented a memorandum of agreement concerning staffing levels. The university is considering these proposals and will respond on or before our next scheduled bargaining on September 11.
University Asked for Contract Extension
The current three-year contract expired on August 9 â and we believe that there should be a contract extension to allow both parties to negotiate with a formal contract in effect given that the process has just started.
The union has offered a 30-day extension in exchange for a lump-sum âpandemic bonusâ. The university conveyed its position that these issues are separate and that a lump sum payment should be discussed as part of an overall economic package. We asked the union for a standalone extension to give everyone more time to work towards a new contract.
Availability to Bargain
While we first reached out to SHENS to begin negotiations on May 11, more than three months ago, the union made itself available to meet on one date prior to July 17 (July 14). A timeline of our attempts to negotiate with the union can be found here.
We requested more dates and have confirmed September 11 and October 2. In addition, the university team offered to meet on September 18 and 25, and on October 9 â at any time suitable for the union.
You can stay updated on our Union Negotiations at The New School page and by following @KnowOurNewSchool on Twitter and Instagram.