Technical Unit Update for April 7, 2009

April 7, 2009

IN THE OFFICE:
The Office of the State Employer has aided in settling a grievance arbitration. On March 31, 2009 a grievance arbitration hearing was set. With the assistance of the Office of the State employer the Technical unit reached a settlement with the Department.

MDOT:
For the first time since we have collectively bargained, the Department of Transportation has decided NOT TO REPRESENT AN EMPLOYEE IN A CIVIL ACTION where the employee was involved in an accident, driving a State vehicle, during there regularly scheduled shift. Be aware of this as your driving and conducting business for the Department of Transportation. Of course a grievance has been filed over this decision.( And is heading for arbitration)
CONSTRUCTION SEASON OPENS - Just a reminder that our fellow Tech.’s are out on the highways so, give ‘em a brake!
MEAL RECEIPT UPDATE - The S&E unit of 517M is scheduling an arbitration on grocery reciept/bulk purchase of meals. The Technical unit is scheduling a step 2 grievance conference. We will resolve this!
Community Health-

CORRECTIONS:
With the closures/consolidations of several facilities, (Scott, Huron Valley, etc. ) many of our membership have concerns..Lay off notice received from the Department of Corrections; The Union has received contractual notice of indefinite layoff affecting some of its members. The reason(s) cited are closure of the Scott and Deerfield Facilities, Camp Branch, and the reorganization of the Huron Valley Complex. We will continue to update you as more information is received.

TUITION REIMBURSEMENT:
Requests are being received for tuition reimbursement. KEEP SPREADING the WORD.

CIVIL SERVICE:
Michigan Politics: Representative Agema has introduced a resolution to cut State Employee wages. Go to our “get active” section of the SEIU website and send a letter to your rep. And voice your concerns.

CHAPTER MEETINGS/WORK SITE VISITS:
Work site visits are being scheduled. Contact Dennis Streeter at the office if you can assist me in scheduling a visit to your work site.

UNION PARTICIPATION:
The local is always looking for members who want to participate in their Union. If you would like to participate there are a number of different ways to get involved. Call the office and talk with any of the staff. We welcome your involvement! THIS IS YOUR UNION!

U.P. STEWARD TRAINING:
We are scheduling a training session for stewards in the U.P. (April/May) If you are interested in learning/ participating in the Union, let us know by calling the Lansing office