AFSCME 1632 Secures New Contract for Public Sector Workers
The American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 1632 has announced a new contract agreement with the city of Santa Monica, California. The new contract covers more than 600 public sector workers who provide critical services to the city`s residents.
The new agreement includes a three-year contract that provides wage increases, improved health care benefits, and stronger job security for AFSCME 1632 members. The new contract also includes a strong grievance procedure to ensure that workers` rights are protected and respected.
„This new contract is a testament to the hard work and dedication of AFSCME 1632 members who provide essential services to Santa Monica residents. It demonstrates that when workers come together, we can negotiate fair and just contracts that benefit everyone,” said AFSCME Local 1632 President David Duke.
The new contract provides for a 3% wage increase each year of the contract. The wage increase includes a retroactive pay increase of 2.5% for the past fiscal year, which will be paid out to workers within 30 days of the contract`s ratification. This is a significant victory for AFSCME 1632 members who have faced increasing living costs due to the high cost of living in Santa Monica.
The new contract also includes improved health care benefits for workers and their families. The city will now offer a new health care plan with lower deductibles and co-pays. The plan also includes increased coverage for mental health services, which is a much-needed benefit for workers in high-stress public sector positions.
AFSCME Local 1632 members will also enjoy stronger job security under the new contract. The city has agreed to provide six months` notice before any layoffs, and workers who are laid off will have access to the city`s job placement services. This will provide vital assistance to workers who may face job loss due to budgetary constraints.
In addition to wage increases, improved health care benefits, and stronger job security, the new contract includes a strong grievance procedure. The procedure will provide a mechanism for workers to resolve any disputes that may arise during the term of the contract. This ensures that workers` rights are protected and respected during the life of the agreement.
The new contract between AFSCME Local 1632 and the city of Santa Monica is a significant victory for public sector workers in California. It demonstrates that when workers come together and negotiate in good faith, they can achieve significant gains that benefit not only themselves but also the communities they serve.