COT Bargaining Update

Just when we thought the Court couldn't go any lower, they slithered in yet another slimy proposal—this time targeting our members' vacation rights.

Today, the Court responded to UPE's proposal to increase vacation slots for all units with their own proposal. The Court proposal contains language that could reduce the number of available vacation slots and potentially give the CEO discretion to decide whether certain units should lose vacation slots altogether.

Vacation time is earned time, and access to that time should not depend on the whim or discretion of one person. Members plan their lives, family time, travel, appointments, and much-needed rest around the ability to actually use the vacation they have earned.

UPE maintained its position of asking for fair and livable raises for our members, and the Court once again countered with a one-time payment, this time in a bid to divide our membership by providing $1,000 to those with 10 or more years of service and only $750 to those with less than 10 years of service.

All our members deserve fair raises. This fight will continue.

The Court cannot expect members to continue to suffer through poor working conditions and no wage increases.

Be sure to attend our Bargaining Advisory Committee meeting at UPE on August 20, 2026 from 6:15 pm to 7:15 pm — your questions and input are critical.