University of Alaska and Union Headed to Federal Mediation
The University of Alaska system and the union representing nearly 1,100 faculty members and postdoctoral fellows are heading into federal mediation in January, following a deadlock in negotiations over compensation and benefits. The current three-year contract is set to expire at the end of the month, prompting both parties to seek a resolution through mediation.
Bargaining began in August, and while progress has been made on 17 of 22 contract provisions, the key sticking points remain wages and benefits. The union has proposed significant annual raises, citing the high cost of living in Alaska, while the university administration has offered lower increases.
Both parties are optimistic that the mediation process will help to reach a mutually beneficial agreement before important state budget deadlines. Inflation and rising costs for transportation, groceries, and housing have put additional pressure on negotiations, with the union emphasizing the need for fair compensation to offset years of sacrifices.
The outcome of the negotiations will ultimately depend on funding from the state Legislature and Governor Mike Dunleavy. University President Pat Pitney expressed concerns over the costs of the union’s compensation proposal, while the union remains confident that funding will be provided by the Legislature.
With bargaining set to resume in January under the guidance of a federal mediator, both the university and the union are hopeful that a deal will be reached by the March deadline. Despite the challenges, both parties are committed to finding a resolution that addresses the needs of faculty members and postdoctoral fellows.
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Photo credit alaskabeacon.com
