SEIU Local 99 members at Options Inc. voted to accept a new contract agreement. Our contract offers us the best way to improve our working conditions and the services we provide. After months of negotiations we reached an agreement that provides us with greater job protections and more stability for the families we serve. Thank you to all the members who made their voices heard.
Highlights include:
Wage Increase:
Even in these tough times, our Bargaining Team was able to secure a .72% COLA wage increase for Head Start workers retroactive to December 1, 2011. The Head Start wage scales will also be changed to reflect the .72% COLA. The retroactive pay to December 1, 2011 only goes into effect if we ratify the contract by November 30, 2012.
Stronger Seniority Protections:
The new agreement clarifies the definition of seniority to allow laid off employees who are recalled to retain their seniority.
Improved Transfer & Reassignment Process:
The agreement clarifies the criteria for Transfer and Reassignment and requires Options to provide the reason for denial upon request.
Improved Layoff & Recall Language:
The new agreement requires Options to recall laid off staff in reverse order of layoff – the last to be laid off is the first to be called back to work.
Greater Job Protections:
The agreement requires Options to first issue a documented verbal reprimand or a written reprimand prior to suspending, demoting, or terminating an employee (except for specific cases)
›› See the full language of the Options Agreement (requires Adobe Reader)
