As we reported earlier this year, the Oregon Legislative Aides unit is a first-of-its-kind bargaining unit which follows a new bargaining structure and the initial bargaining process was delayed while both parties were determining the best course of action to proceed into bargaining this first contract.
Since then, the IBEW Local 89 bargaining committee, which includes IBEW staff and fellow workers from the LA bargaining unit, have continued to bargain toward a collective bargaining agreement throughout the summer and now into fall. As part of first contract bargaining, there are proposals for all aspects of a full agreement, including subject matter ranging from a basic preamble, grievance procedures, benefits, and the duration of the agreement. These proposals include the full language intended for each subject we are bargaining and require more time to work through until agreement is reached.
Over the past months, both parties have been willing to meet virtually, as well as in person, in order to continue to present and discuss proposals, explain positions, and ultimately reach initial agreement on specific proposals (TA). As of our last bargaining session, we have 62 proposals, representing a full agreement. Of these 62 proposals, we have 17 TA’d proposals and continue to work through the remaining proposals at each session. The time spent remains productive as we move toward our first contract.
As a bargaining committee, we remain focused on reaching an agreement that represents the needs of the bargaining unit and the shared goal of completing a first contract in a reasonable timeframe. Bargaining sessions continue to be scheduled as we progress, we currently have sessions confirmed for bargaining through October, with additional dates being proposed and reviewed at each session.
We will continue to provide updates as we work through the bargaining process and have information to report. Thank you for your patience and support as we continue to negotiate a full first contract!
In Solidarity,
Your IBEW Local 89 Bargaining Committee