Contract negotiations resumed this week for the next Union of Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE) contract with the University of California.
UPTE represents approximately 17,000 employees across the University system, grouped into three units: health care professionals (HX), research support professionals (RX) and technical professionals (TX). Bargaining began on June 10. The existing contracts (HX, RX, and TX) expire on Sept. 30 and Oct. 31.
"We're excited to partner with UPTE to reach agreements that give well-deserved recognition to the important work these professionals do in advancing the University of California's mission," said Missy Matella, associate vice president for Systemwide Employee and Labor Relations for the University of California.
UC passed nine proposals for UPTE's review during the first two bargaining sessions. UC introduced proposals on corrective action parameters, meeting access, and grievance procedures in this week's sessions.
Negotiations for the next contract, known as successor bargaining, are expected to continue through the end of the year, with the parties meeting regularly to discuss proposals and relevant issues. At each session, UC or UPTE introduces proposals and counter-proposals, working towards tentative agreements for each of the contracts' 40-50 clauses.
The University takes pride in its ongoing commitment to working effectively with its labor unions. UC negotiates with 15 systemwide bargaining units and eight unions about the employment terms of more than 137,000 employees.