Members,

We have been in difficult budgets a number of times in the past, and even when we were not in bad economic times, we were still affected by budget constraints. In this case, we are definitely in the worst economic times that I can remember, and as we go into the 09-10 bargaining sessions we need to be realistic.

The Governor's proposal to not lay off employees is a relief. Unfortunately, the proposal would give us no raise, have us pay for more of our share of the health insurance premium, and for the first time, self pay a retirement contribution. Obviously, with a no wage increase in the biannual budget and an increase in our contributions, we are not pleased with the proposal as is. What we need to keep in mind is that wages, health insurance, retirement contribution, and a number of other things are subjects of labor agreement talks and that the union must and will negotiate those items and more.

As a bargaining team member, I am aware that the times ahead may be difficult and we may need to be creative and patient. A number of members have asked me what the position of the union on furloughs. To answer that question- the union is all of us and a clear opinion has not emerged. Many members are sighing relief that the job cuts are minimal and consider themselves, in most ways, fortunate. It seems that a smaller group is unhappy, while others are undecided.

The following is the process that our union follows to gauge interest in various bargaining issues, including the state budget, and what the priorities will be:

• First, the members elect bargaining delegates to represent them.
  bullet Then the delegates elect a bargaining team among them to meet directly with the employer.
• Contract issue forms are collected from the membership in December of the year prior to contract talks.
• All contract issue forms are reviewed by the elected bargaining teams in March
• Bargaining training is provided to the team.
• A Bargaining Conference is then convened to discuss the findings of the bargaining team in the review of the issue forms.
• At the conference and throughout the negotiations, our Chief Negotiator, Marty Beil, provides the teams with critical information that will help ensure successful contract talks.
• Finally, we begin negotiations, and the teams communicate progress at the table to the Delegates.

It is very important to note that conditions in the State can change very quickly during negotiations and it is important to rely on and support the leadership and judgment of the Chief Negotiator, as well the teams you elected. Often what serves the membership best can be a moving target, and timing is crucial.

So, that is the order by which our union decides where we stand on the budget and other concerns that will affect negotiations. The short answer is that we will wait and see.

Let's be hopeful
Vern Seay