The Total Tentative Agreement (TTA) has been ratified by CAPS-UAW members! A record-breaking 91% rank-and-file members participated in the vote, and of the voting members, 97% voted to ratify the TTA!
This marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to secure better conditions, wages, and benefits for all rank-and-file members. This ratification is a testament to all of us coming together, fighting for what we deserve, and our solidarity and strength as a union.
What’s Next?
Ratification by the State: The State legislature will vote to ratify the TTA, including new expenditure of funds via a budget trailer bill. Once approved by the State legislature, the budget trailer bill goes to the governor for final approval. After all parties have ratified the TTA, then the TTA is effective and becomes a “memorandum of understanding” (or “contract”).
Contract enforcement and implementation: The strength of our contract is more than just the terms we negotiate and win, but also our commitment to enforcing those terms! Contract enforcement ensures the rights and benefits that we fought for are recognized, and sets the stage for future negotiations. Our ability to secure better terms in future contracts depends on our dedication to enforcing the current one. Together, we can ensure that the hard-fought gains we’ve achieved are upheld and that we continue to build a stronger, more resilient union. Familiarize yourself with the provisions in your contract, join upcoming Know Your Rights meetings, and immediately report workplace issues here.
Political Organizing: We have our allies, and we have people that we need to hold accountable. 2024 is the time for us to do that. The decisions made in our State and Federal government directly impact our working conditions, wages, benefits, and rights. The outcome of elections and legislative processes can either help or hurt our ability to fight for and protect what’s best for us as workers. Together, we have the power to influence change and secure a better future.
Welcome New Rank-and-File Scientists: Outreach to new colleagues is key for ensuring newly hired Scientists are welcomed by fellow Scientists, learn about their rights and benefits, and are introduced to our union. New worker orientations are critical in building solidarity and preparing new State Scientists to get involved by empowering them to advocate for themselves and their coworkers.
Stronger Together
As a member-led union, we must have discussions and make decisions about the direction in which we want to move together. Our future is up to all of us. Stay tuned for more opportunities to participate. Click here to fill out a form indicating areas you are interested in getting involved with.