UC-AFSCME news and updates

UC salaries are determined by job classification, not by race or gender. We believe all UC employees, at every level, deserve to be fairly compensated for their contributions. We know the cost of living in California can be challenging, and we expect compensation to be a key topic in these negotiations and are committed to finding solutions that work for everyone. We will listen and carefully consider union proposals, including AFSCME’s request for a $25/hour systemwide minimum wage and a 5% increase for those already earning more than $25 per hour.

No — more than 70% of AFSCME-represented employees earn at least $25 per hour, and none are paid below the local minimum wage. We will carefully evaluate the economic proposals presented by AFSCME, including the $25/5% campaign.

Yes — two-thirds of AFSCME bargaining unit members are eligible for step increases. The current contract guarantees 3% annual pay raises and 2% step increases to 20,000 of the 31,000 AFSCME-represented employees. Members not receiving step raises are already at the top step for their job classification.

Housing affordability is challenging for all Californians, not only UC students, faculty, and staff. Under current (and prior) contracts, UC service workers and patient care employees have received annual salary increases, averaging over 5% (through across-the-board and step increases) in each contract year. While UC has no control over statewide rents or housing costs, we know the cost of living in California is high. By providing employees with competitive wages and regular pay increases, we aim to help our employees with their cost-of-living expenses.

No. UC has a large operating budget and many sources of funding, many of which are not available for salaries. For example, government contracts and grants provide support for specific research projects and other programs. Similarly, private support funds a range of activities typically restricted by the donor or sponsor. Without seeing a formal proposal or the data sources and analysis used, it is difficult to accurately cost out AFSCME’s $25/5% request or understand the impacts on UC’s operating budget. A formal proposal from AFSCME will help us accurately evaluate the impact and costs.