Hi, I'm about to become my Nursing Unit union rep

and we're about to renegotiate our contract. What an exciting time for a newbie to come on board, eh? I posted in GD and have gotten some great responses to my requests for tips, and informational websites and what to expect and so on. They've been great!

And here's a funny story. I wanted to post these questions in a more appropriate forum, so I went looking for the "Union" forum. Couldn't find it! Labor! Duh! I'm very amused that I didn't think of that.

So, I would appreciate any tips, helpful thoughts, comments about possible land mines and any good websites to help me become the best union rep I can be. I belong to WSNA and have been spending time there learning what I can but more would be helpful.

Usually you fall within one or the other. MKJ

edit, typing, argh.

So, apparently, right now we are only affiliated with The American Nurses Association. There is no mention of an upcoming affiliation with SEIU, though at last years statewide meeting, there was some heated discussion between those who want to affiliate with SEIU and those who think that would be detrimental. How's that for a long answer to a short question? Thank you, though, because this is obviously something I need to be up on.

up and comer, by harnessing the people in the service arena.

Currently, there is a rift between the two, however, both have the fundamental rights of workers as their core philosophy.

Anyway, welcome, :toast: MKJ

I don't think that's a good idea!

http://www.afscme.org/members/1258.cfm

Checklist of Contract Clauses

Introduction

This checklist identifies contract language included in typical collective bargaining agreements, to inform or remind negotiators about what topics could be covered.

Every bargaining is unique, so certain items may be more or less relevant than others, depending on the workers and employers involved. Some items may not be appropriate for a given setting. The checklist also includes items important from the union's perspective.

Management will likely propose provisions for management rights or a zipper clause, which are common in collective bargaining agreements. Sample language for all items on this checklist is available from the Research and Collective Bargaining Services Department.

The first item on any checklist is understanding the needs and concerns of the bargaining unit, and then focusing on core issues that matter to the entire bargaining unit, and on provisions that help build union power. The items on this checklist should be considered in that light.

We have many AFSCME nurses btw. Click the link for the list. You didn't get this from me.

AFSCME-United Nurses of America is over 60,000 nurses working in unity to advance quality and accountability in the healthcare setting through organizing, political action and nursing practice. Together, United Nurses of America members across the country are winning wage, benefit and other improvements such as prohibitions on mandatory overtime through strong collective bargaining agreements with our employers – and advocating for legislation and policies to increase health care funding, improve quality care, and institute safer working conditions and protections for nurses. Across the country, we are reaching out to other nurses who want to join AFSCME-UNA. As our numbers grow, so does our power to improve our jobs, the care we deliver and the quality of our lives.

is that they have every single local contract up on their website. I'm going to waste some paper and make a notebook for myself with all of them. That way, when I have downtime but no access to a computer, I will have reading material.

Wield a big stick but whisper in their ears before you smack them with it!!!!

Don't look now, but you're about to be hit by a clue by four.

Sample Bargaining Survey (PDF format)

http://www.afscme.org/docs/cbcheck4.pdf