UWHA and UW Labor Relations (LR) met for the ninth bargaining session on September 5th. This was an abbreviated 2 hour-session due to scheduling conflicts. Mindy Kornberg, Vice President of Human Relations, UW came to discuss childcare needs at the University and answered questions from UWHA. Articles 1, 7, and the newly LR proposed “Union Activities” Articles were discussed. Appendix IV was Tentatively Agreed.
LR presented a counter proposal on Article 1 (Childcare), which included language changes, but no increases to funding for the Childcare Fund, or increased priority for childcare center openings for residents. Mindy Kornberg discussed the ongoing struggles of childcare accessibility and cost universally, what the University has done to try to improve this, and that they understand this is a problem for resident families. There are currently 972 people on wait lists for childcare, with a 2-3 year long wait. UWHA feels strongly that the University has an imminent responsibility to make childcare more accessible and less of a financial burden to its employees.
LR also presented a counter proposal on Article 7 (Grievances), which clarified language and updated procedures based on the last discussion. UWHA also rejected the proposal for an article titled “Union Activities” stating that most of the proposed language is already covered by state law, or publicly available to the university.
The next bargaining session is scheduled for Thursday, September 26th from 3:00-7:00pm. UWHA encourages all members to attend.
Resident & fellow physician union - northwest/CIR/SEIU 