UC Continues Negotiations with UAW for GSRs and ASEs

The University of California met with the United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 4811 union on August 12 to continue negotiations for a new contract for Graduate Student Researchers (GSRs) and Academic Student Employees (ASEs), which began on July 8th

Our university’s mission is strengthened and sustained by the dedication of graduate student researchers and academic student employees. Your expertise and commitment—whether in the classroom, laboratory, or the broader community—enrich the University’s learning and research mission. We are grateful for the vital role you play in shaping minds, advancing knowledge, and making our institution a place of excellence. 

The UC system is currently facing significant and unprecedented financial pressures, related to
the federal government’s recent actions, which include the suspension of hundreds of millions in
research funding. These financial realities are an important backdrop to ongoing labor negotiations, as UC works to support its workforce while maintaining long-term financial stability and fulfilling its public mission. Despite these challenges, we are committed to bargaining a fair and collaborative contract with the UAW. 

During the August 12 session, UC presented five proposals: union security, workspace and instructional support, GSR paid time off (PTO), non-discrimination agreements, and a respectful work environment based on existing system-wide UC policy.

UAW presented six proposals to UC this week regarding community safety, retirement plans, reasonable accommodation, workspace and instructional support, transitional positions, and discipline and dismissal. 

After both parties submitted proposals, a tentative agreement was reached on workspace and instructional support, indicating clear collaboration and positive progress in these negotiations. 

The two parties will meet again next week, on Tuesday, August 19.