Campus workers affiliated with AFSCME local 3299 and UPTE-CWA local 9119 voted overwhelmingly to authorize strikes at the University of California after bargaining stalled. After the vote, AFSCME announced that members in several bargaining units would strike on October 23, 24, and 25. UPTE then announced its members would strike on the same dates. Last spring, strikes by workers affiliated with AFSCME, UPTE, and the California Nurses Association (CNA) disrupted campus for several days.
CNA, the UAW (representing graduate employees), and lecturers affiliated with UC-AFT have settled their contracts. UC Librarians affiliated with UC-AFT are out of contract, but have not announced a strike action.
Wages and outsourcing of jobs are the big sticking points, according to a report in the Daily Bruin. Looking across the various bargaining units, the UC negotiators seem to be offering 2% annual increases. Given the rising cost of living in Los Angeles, the unions are understandably unhappy with those offers. But the sides appear far apart on many issues, including pensions, health insurance premiums, and overtime. Librarians are struggling to get language in their contract protecting their academic freedom, as well as to get their pay more in line with librarians at other California universities.
More to come. Follow the unions for the most up-to-date information: