We are excited to announce that 95 percent of voting state worker members said YES to ratify their new contract! This means that all provisions of the contract will go into effect as soon as both sides sign the new agreement. This includes the day after Thanksgiving as a new holiday this November!

Speaking with one voice on holding the line on health care is an example of collective action making a real difference. Together, we participated in statewide info pickets, held unity breaks, signed petitions for a fair contract, and talked to managers about the importance of a fair deal. We held the line on the 95 percent/5percent premium share and expanded the number of plans at a 99 percent/1percent premium share. Click here for a complete summary of contract changes.

At the same time we were voting on historic gains in our contract, there was an attack on our ability to collectively work for such gains. The far-right, conservative, anti-worker, Washington-based Freedom Foundation announced its intention to “make life miserable” for our union. They filed a suit aimed at taking away our voice to advocate for better working conditions and quality services through our union. Now, more than ever, it’s critical we tell groups like this that we stand united in our efforts to lift our members and all working people, no matter their attacks. In our contract vote, thousands of us committed to each other to stand united. If you haven’t already, please take a moment and click here to recommit to stand with your union sisters and brothers.

While our contract has been ratified, Higher Ed workers continue to have an unfair health care offer, anemic cost of living adjustments and take aways on the table. Please show your solidarity and stand with Higher Ed workers: click here to sign the support petition – so we can show we are truly in it together.