Negotiations Continue for BR/BX Contract

The University of California continued bargaining with the United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 4811 union on September 3. The two parties are negotiating a new contract for Graduate Student Researchers (GSRs) and Academic Student Employees (ASEs).

During the session, UC made proposals on leaves and union access and rights. The leaves proposal aims to provide clarity to both employees and administrators, incorporating new leave types. The union access and rights proposal streamlines the process for participation in bargaining activities. 

UAW passed proposals about Discipline and Dismissal, Holidays, a Respectful Work Environment, Immigration, and Non-Discrimination. In addition, UAW proposed eliminating the contract’s No-Strikes clause by striking the entire provision. UC rejected this proposal immediately, stating that a “No Strikes” clause is essential to the overall agreement and that the University is bargaining in good faith with the Union to ensure labor peace during the next contract. 

On a positive note, the two parties have reached tentative agreements on six articles, maintaining current contract language for: Labor Management Meetings, Work and Incurred Injury or Illness, Severability, Health and Safety, Posting, and Travel. 

UC values the contributions of academic student employees and graduate student researchers and remains committed to reaching a fair contract with UAW. At the same time, federal funding cuts and broader financial pressures severely strain the University’s capacity to sustain its teaching and research mission. These challenges make it more critical that bargaining focuses on constructive solutions that protect stability for students, patients, and the university community.

The two parties will meet again on Tuesday, September 16.