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All Local 503 News

  • Grants Pass Home Goes Union
    8/31/2010
    Workers at Pinnacles  Royale Gardens Health and Rehabilitation Center in Grants Pass have joined SEIU Local 503, making theirs the 31st nursing home in Oregon with union representation.
  • 2010 Scholarship Recipients
    8/24/2010

  • Local 503 Candidate Endorsements
    8/23/2010
    SEIU Local 503 has endorsed 68 candidates for state and local office in 2010 based on their prior performance as well as responses to questionnaires and answers at member forums sponsored by CAPE, the local’s Citizen Action for Political Education. The general election concludes November 2.
  • MCEA contract ratified
    8/23/2010
    SEIU/MCEA members in Marion County voted to ratify their 2011-2012 contract. This was a tough year for bargaining, but the members who showed up to push for a fair deal on health insurance really made the difference.
  • First Contract at Laurelhurst!
    8/13/2010
    After 7 months at the bargaining table, workers at Laurelhurst Village Nursing Home in Portland reached an agreement that includes a health care plan for all employees.
  • Candidate for Executive Director: Michael M. Simpson
    8/12/2010
    Current Employer: DHS
    Length/Years of Service:
    Local: 200 DHS
  • Candidate for Vice President: Paula Allen
    8/12/2010
    Current Employer: Department of Revenue
    Length/Years of Service: 20 years
    Local: 150
  • Get the Facts About the Candidates for Oregon Governor
    8/9/2010
    SEIU Oregon members voted to endorse John Kitzhaber for governor. Kitzhaber has a proven track record of protecting the middle class; working to put Oregonians back to work; protecting services; and holding banks and Wall Street accountable to working people. See a side-by-side comparison of Kitzhaber and Dudley on the issues that matter.
  • A Matter of Heart
    8/6/2010
    Sandy and Chuck Huckleberry were in good financial shape until he had a massive heart attack. Then Bank of America raised their credit card rates and Beneficial Finance foreclosed on the home they owned for 25 years.
  • Making History, Preparing for the Future
    8/6/2010
    "You are the national leaders in standing up for fair funding of public services," said Mary Kay Henry, SEIU international president, speaking to more than 300 delegates gathered for Local 503's 2010 General Council at the Linn County Fairgrounds.
  • Kitzhaber for Governor
    7/29/2010
    Members of the Services Employees International Union have voted overwhelmingly to endorse and support Democrat John Kitzhaber for governor and pledged to campaign actively on his behalf.
  • Foreclosure Fightback
    7/27/2010
    Oregon is now the 3rd highest state in the nation in home foreclosures. SEIU has a plan to hold Wall Street Banks accountable, and to protect working families.
  • Help Keep Families Working, Save Oregon Jobs
    7/26/2010
    Quality, affordable childcare is vital to keeping parents in the workforce. But Employment Related Day Care could disappear if the Legislature doesn’t act soon!
  • Register Here for DAS/OUS Bargaining Conference
    7/23/2010
    This is a Bargaining Conference for our DAS and OUS Bargaining Delegates, Local Officers, Stewards, Contract Action Team members (CATs), Activists, and SEIU Local 503, Board members. The Union will pay expenses for these attendees. If you have questions about your eligibility, please contact your Local President.
  • Safe…for Now
    7/22/2010
    Following an outcry by members of SEIU Local 503 and other Oregonians, the legislature’s emergency board voted July 22 to restore cuts to community care for seniors and people with disabilities.
  • DAS Office Worker Classification Study Begins
    7/20/2010
    DAS has finally kicked off the classification study for office workers. You are invited to participate in a conference call/webinar to learn more about the process and how you can be involved.
  • Encouragement and Candor
    7/20/2010
    SEIU 503 members were impressed by Dr. John Kitzhaber’s encouraging words about the value of state workers and the services we provide as well as his candor in assessing his role and ours in the coming round of contract negotiations.
  • 'I just can't believe they can do this to people'
    7/20/2010
    SEIU Local 503 member and Addus Homecare worker Judy Buchanan, of Medford, was quoted in the Medford Mail-Tribune in an article about proposed cuts to Oregon Project Independence, a program that provides in-home care to seniors and people with disabilities.
  • MCEA Ratification Materials
    7/20/2010
    Bargaining our contract this year proved to be a difficult task.  Both sides, Union and Management, came to the table with only a few proposals but we were far apart on the core issues of pay and benefits.  After a long negotiation process lasting more than 7 months we are confident this is the best deal we would be able to reach and your Bargaining Team is recommending it be ratified.
  • "No Takeaways" Heard Loud and Clear
    7/9/2010
    After a successful action on June 22, Laurelhurst Village workers are one step closer to winning employee health care. At their all-staff meeting, almost 100% of workers in attendance wore stickers that said "No Takeaways."
  • We're at Crunch Time
    6/24/2010
    Right after the “Showdown on K Street” we settled into more training and meeting with our Legislators.  Senator Jeff Merkley hosts a coffee meeting every Thursday morning, while he is in Washington, for all Oregon citizens.  I have attended a few of these affairs, and it’s a pleasant informal way to talk to the Senator.
    Read More >>
  • Leslie Frane to Help Lead International Union
    6/11/2010
    SEIU announced today that Leslie Frane, executive director of SEIU Local 503, has been appointed director of SEIU's Public Services Division by the union's new president, Mary Kay Henry.
  • How Will Proposed Budget Cuts Affect You?
    6/8/2010
    Today Governor Kulongoski made public the list of proposed cuts that he intends to overcome the projected $575 million shortfall in Oregon’s budget:
  • Showdown on K Street
    6/3/2010
    The very next day after the star-studded Leadership Conference awards ceremony, we were treated to a discussion panel here at SEIU International Headquarters on the incredibly important subject of Wall Street Reform.
    Read More>>
  • Victory at City of Tigard
    5/28/2010
    SEIU Local 503 members at the City of Tigard settled a new contract on May 27. They fought back a proposal that would have eliminated all bumping, and were able to preserve current seniority language.
  • Adult Foster Home Providers Mobilize in Salem
    5/27/2010
    How will new Oregon Administrative Rules affect YOU? The next public hearing on the rulemaking process is on Tuesday June 15th. Join with other providers in voicing our concerns over the proposed changes.
  • Member Resource Center Expanded
    5/24/2010
    On May 24 2010, SEIU Local 503 announced the expansion of three new tools for stewards and members: the Member Resource Center, the Grievance Database and the Resource Center for Stewards.
  • A Primary Success
    5/21/2010
    Two statewide candidates supported by SEIU 503 won election May 18, but it was the local’s involvement in a pair of Republican state legislative primaries that has drawn the most attention.
  • Learning and Lobbying in DC
    5/20/2010
    Local 503 Homecare Worker Rebecca Sandoval of Medford is spending eight weeks as part of the SEIU Member Lobby Program in Washington, D.C. She says she is working hard, learning a lot and loving every moment of the experience.  Read More >>
  • Almost Unanimous in Coos Bay
    5/19/2010
    Nearly every eligible employee -- 30 of 34 -- at Avamere Rehabilitation at Coos Bay has signed a card designating SEIU 503 as the bargaining unit for workers there, it the 29th nursing facility in Oregon to the union.
  • A Waste in Wilsonville?
    5/17/2010
    In the aftermath of what might be the first of many rate increases, a member of SEIU Local 503 is urging the City of Wilsonville to re-examine its decision to privatize the construction and operation of a new wastewater treatment plant.
  • Katie Tate, Union Activist, Will Be Missed
    5/14/2010
    Katie Tate, an editor at the Center for Teaching and Learning and an active leader in our UO Local 085, died at age 66 on April 7 after a short, hard fight with breast cancer.
  • General Council 2010 Registration
    5/11/2010
    Congratulations to all General Council Delegates! Please take time to review this information and note the important timelines and actions on your calendar.
  • Mary Kay Henry is New SEIU President
    5/10/2010
    In case you missed it, on 5/10/10 new SEIU President Mary Kay Henry participated in a live tele-townhall with members across the country. Almost 20,000 participated over the phones and online. 
  • Training for Newly Elected Local Officers
    4/29/2010
    Over the last few months, all SEIU Local 503 sub-locals held elections for new officers. In June, we will be conducting training for all new local officers (June 5th  in Portland; June 12th in Salem).
  • Members Address State Forum
    4/23/2010
    Members of SEIU Local 503 were well represented at an April 21 forum conducted by the State Department of Human Services and the Oregon Health Authority to attract public input on budget priorities for 2011-13.
  • This May, Vote Yes for Safe and Healthy Schools
    4/23/2010
    On May 18, Oregon’s K-12 schools, community colleges, and universities need your help. Vote YES on Measures 68 and 69 on the Primary Election Ballot. 
  • 2010-12 Homecare Council
    4/16/2010
    Congratulations to the newly-elected 2010-2012 Homecare Council
  • “No More Mandates!”
    4/14/2010
    On May 25th, members from SEIU 503 held a rally on behalf of line workers at Oregon State Hospital who are being mandated for overtime at record rates for the past several months.
  • AFH Union election results
    4/8/2010
    Statewide Officer and Regional results are in. Write-in candidates will still need to accept the positions before taking office. Please refer questions to the Election Committee.
  • Coast Fork? Check!
    4/5/2010
    A large majority of workers at the Coast Fork Nursing Center in Cottage Grove designated SEIU 503 by card check, making the Prestige home the 28th Oregon nursing facility to join the union.
  • Finding Solutions for OUS
    4/5/2010
    SEIU Local 503 members who work on state campuses spent the first Saturday of spring exploring ways to help the Oregon University System maximize revenue and resources.
  • Mandate Mania
    3/23/2010
    Per the union Letter of Agreement in the last contract, an independent fact-finder was on OSH campuses in Salem and Portland to “conduct meetings at which the Agencies and the Union will give relevant oral and written information regarding processes and practices for distributing voluntary and mandatory overtime.
  • Parking Pandemonium
    3/23/2010
    Local 392 OSH Members pulled together an impromptu “park-in” to protest the ongoing problems with safe parking around the hospital.
  • 1st Contract in Woodburn
    3/18/2010
    Newly organized workers have reached agreement on a first contract at Pinnacle’s French Prairie Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Woodburn.
  • Innovation In Action
    3/18/2010
    A new video, Innovation in Action, produced by SEIU’s Public Service Division, highlights three stories about members who are improving public services and building better communities.
  • 503 Endorses 79 for 2010
    3/16/2010
    SEIU Local 503 has endorsed 79 candidates for the state legislature and local office in 2010. The primary election concludes May 18.
  • Adult Foster Home Tentative Agreement
    3/9/2010
    Our SEIU 503 Adult Foster Care Bargaining Team unanimously recommends a Yes vote to ratify the new contract so we can all immediately engage in the State Administrative Rule Making Process.
  • Do you know a child who needs health insurance?
    3/8/2010
    SEIU Local 503 is partnering with the state to help children get no-cost or low-cost health insurance through Oregon’s new Healthy Kids program.
  • Congratulations to our new Board of Directors!
    3/6/2010
    Many qualified members ran as candidates for our Board of Directors. The members in each of candidates’ employment sector or geographic region elected the following members to represent them as our 2010-2012 Board of Directors:
  • Adult Foster Care Accord
    3/4/2010
    After 13 months of difficult negotiations our SEIU Local 503 Adult Foster Home Bargaining Team has reached a tentative agreement with the state on a new contract only two days before scheduled arbitration.
  • Adult Foster Home Providers Local 858 Elections
    3/2/2010

  • Care Provider Sub-Local Elections
    3/2/2010
    Ballots are in the mail now for many of the SEIU Care Provider sub-local elections. Follow these links to view lists of candidates and election timelines for your sub-local.
  • Homecare Local 99 Elections
    3/2/2010

  • Legislature Extends ERDC
    2/25/2010
    State legislators have included a second year of funding for Employment Related Day Care, preserving care for 5,500 children and thousands of jobs for low-wage Oregonians.
  • Proposed revisions to governing documents available for review
    2/18/2010
    In May 2009, our Board of Directors named a committee to examine our Constitution & By-laws and Administrative Policies & Procedures. The Committee’s goals were to update our governing documents and make them more consistent and user-friendly.
  • Yes, We Want a Union!
    2/17/2010
    Workers at the Laurelhurst Village nursing home in southeast Portland have resumed bargaining for their first contract after emphatically affirming their decision to join SEIU Local 503.
  • Adult Foster Home Bargaining Update 2/11/10
    2/11/2010

  • YES! YES!
    1/27/2010
    Within minutes of the end of voting on Measures 66 & 67, SEIU 503 members got the best news they could imagine: Oregonians had said yes to services and fairness in a historic election.
  • Nursing Home Workers are Voting Yes!
    1/13/2010
    On Thursday, January 7th, workers at 18 Oregon Nursing Homes joined thousands of public workers in stickering up for the campaign to VOTE YES on Measures 66 an 67.
  • Ballot FAQs
    1/12/2010
    Frequently asked questions about voting in Oregon
  • Why Vote YES on 66 & 67?
    See How a Loss Would Devastate Your County!
    1/12/2010
    Find out how your community would suffer from the drastic funding cuts that would be required if we don't vote YES on Measures 66 and 67.
  • Election Guide 2010
    1/6/2010

  • 2010 Board of Directors & Statewide Officers Elections
    1/5/2010

  • 50,000 Calls for Fairness
    12/16/2009
    Investment bankers are spending millions to try to keep Oregon's minimum corporate income tax at $10, but they are up against different kind of bankers: SEIU 503 phone bankers.
  • Watch the second Vote Yes Ad
    12/15/2009
    The Vote Yes campaign has launched a new ad about what is at stake for Oregon's students, seniors, and families. Be one of the first to see the brand new ad:
  • Send an E-card to Friends and Family
    12/11/2009
    Send an animated holiday card to friends and family to remind them to vote YES on Measures 66 & 67. 
  • Health Care Reform: SEIU makes seniors a priority
    12/3/2009
    Many of our clients, family and friends rely on Medicare to get the care they need. As Congress debates health care reform SEIU care providers can help make strengthening and improving Medicare a priority…
  • Food for Thought
    12/1/2009
    The No on 66 & 67 Campaign sent thousands of letters from a Tillamook Dairy farmer urging Oregonians to vote no on Measures 66 & 67. Here is the real story.
  • Watch the new Vote Yes Ad
    12/1/2009
    The Yes for Oregon campaign's first ad on Measures 66 & 67 zeroes in on the fact that while costs have soared for middle-class families since 1931, the corporate minimum income tax has remained just $10.
  • Victory at Laurelhurst Village
    11/25/2009
    Employees at the Laurelhurst Village nursing home in southeast Portland have elected to join SEIU Local 503 and won recognition from the employer following an intense eight-month organizing drive.
  • Nursing Home Workers and Owners Team Up
    11/24/2009
    Nursing home workers, owners and managers came together on November 19 at the 2nd Annual Nursing Home Conference at the SEIU 503 Portland office
  • Privatize OUS? Not So Fast!
    11/20/2009
    Should the Legislature consider allowing the Oregon Board of Higher Ed to take the three largest campuses in the state’s public university system private?
  • YES Campaign Update 11/6/09
    11/6/2009
    The YES Campaign for Tax Fairness is rolling along well. Ninety-three organizations have already endorsed YES on 66 and 67.
  • 35 Legislators Score High
    11/5/2009
    Thirty-five of Oregon’s 90 legislators have received grades of straight A or above in three key areas by the 2009 SEIU 503 Legislative Accountability Report.
  • A Robust Vision
    11/4/2009
    Labor unions should confront political issues outside the workplace based on a robust vision of reciprocity and solidarity, keynote speaker Daniel HoSang said at Local 503’s first Civil and Human Rights Conference.
  • H1N1 Flu Information
    11/4/2009
    The OHCC has published a new "H1N1 Flu Information" web page.  This new page is primarily dedicated to H1N1 flu information, but also includes information about the Seasonal flu.
  • Yes on Measures 66 and 67
    11/3/2009
    This January we can VOTE YES to protect services, safeguard jobs and make sure that corporations and the richest Oregonians pay their fair share.
  • Allying for Better Care
    10/27/2009
    The SEIU Local 503 Nursing Home Alliance conference will give all segments of Oregon's nursing home industry a chance to weigh in on ways to promote quality care.
  • Child Care Workers Ratify Contract
    10/12/2009
    Over 99% of members voted yes to a new two-year contract covering family child care providers that preserves Oregon’s pioneering program in employment-related day care and offers access to affordable health coverage.
  • Wages Up in Pendleton
    10/8/2009
    Workers represented by SEIU Local 503 have successfully negotiated a new 3-year contract with the City of Pendleton that increases salaries across the board and adds new protections.
  • Healthy Homecare Settlement
    9/29/2009
    A member bargaining committee representing nearly 10,000 SEIU Local 503 homecare workers has reached a tentative agreement with the state on a new contract.
  • University Workers OK Pact
    9/24/2009
    An overwhelming 93% of those members voting by mail have ratified a new two-year agreement covering 4,000 classified workers in the Oregon University System represented by SEIU LOCAL 503.
  • And the Winners Are...
    9/15/2009
    Gary B Lane (Adult Foster Homes) and Judy Beyers (Nursing Homes) are the new 2008-2010 interim Directors on the SEIU 503 Board. New Assistant Directors: Patty Jones (Adult Foster Care), Valerie Martinez (Nursing Homes).
  • 88 Percent!
    9/11/2009
    Members of the DAS unit have overwhelmingly ratified a new two-year contract by an 88% margin. The agreement covers more than 18,000 DAS workers and provides health insurance coverage for more than 4,000 classified university workers. OUS workers will vote on other aspects of their contract later this month.
  • OUS Bargaining Update 8/27/09
    8/27/2009

  • Strike Pledges Are Out!
    8/27/2009
    Many of the 4,000 classified workers on all seven Oregon university campuses are standing up for a fair contract and pledging to support a vote to strike, if it is necessary.
  • Is OUS Just Stringing Us Along?
    8/24/2009
    OUS negotiators abandoned their request for limitless furlough days, but tied that to an all-or-nothing package including up to 21 furlough days, a 2-year step freeze, and no recognition of the Portland State Recyclers.
  • OUS Bargaining Update 8/24/09
    8/24/2009

  • Child Care Tentative Agreement 8/21/09
    8/21/2009

  • Child Care Workers Settle Contract
    8/20/2009
    SEIU child care providers have reached a tentative contract agreement that will allow thousands of low-income parents to remain on the job knowing their young children will receive proper day care.
  • Central Table Update 8/18/09
    8/18/2009

  • New Patient Room Designs Set Off Alarms
    8/17/2009
    When the hospital recently held an open house to view the prototypes of the rooms in the new hospital, Local 392 leadership was alarmed to see so many problems that will put both patients and staff at risk.
  • Unanimous Support for DAS Contract
    8/15/2009
    Elected SEIU 503 bargaining delegates voted unanimously August 15 to support a tentative agreement covering more than 18,000 DAS employees and providing health insurance coverage to more than 4,000 OUS workers.
  • OUS Bargainers Called Unfair to PSU Students
    8/14/2009
    SEIU Local 503 has filed an unfair labor practice complaint against OUS for refusing to include our newest members, 14 part-time recyclers at Portland State, in negotiations.
  • Homecare Bargaining Update 8/12/09
    8/12/2009

  • Victory at City of Wilsonville
    8/12/2009
    Wilsonville city workers overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year contract on July 31. Despite difficult economic times, city workers were able to avoid layoffs and still negotiate pay increases each year of the contract.
  • OUS Workers Speak Out
    8/11/2009
    In this video, classified workers at the U of O talk about the impact unlimited furloughs would have on their work and their lives.
  • OUS Bargaining Update and Action Alert 8/10/09
    8/10/2009

  • Another Victory for OSH Members
    8/7/2009
    After months of talking about violations of the union contract language regarding feasibility studies being conducted prior to contracting out bargaining unit work, Local 392 leadership filed a grievance.
  • Focus Shifts to Chancellor; Workers Speak Out
    8/6/2009
    OUS Chancellor George Persteiner's latest proposal would require classified workers to take as many unpaid days as Pernsteiner decides that he wants to give them. OUS workers speak out in a new video.
  • Candidate Statements: Interim 503 Board Eelections, AFH & NH elections
    8/5/2009
    An election for Adult Foster Home and Nursing Home positions is underway. Having met the deadline for nominations which closed July 29, 2009, candidates for these positions have submitted their candidate statements. Ballots will be mailed  August 17, 2009 with a return cut-off of 5:00 PM September 8, 2009.
  • DAS/OUS Action Alert 8/4/09
    8/4/2009

  • OUS Action Alert 8/4/09
    8/4/2009

  • Homecare Bargaining Update 7/31/09
    7/31/2009

  • OUS Bargaining Update 7/31/09
    7/31/2009

  • Child Care Bargaining Update 7/29/09
    7/29/2009

  • Notice of Nominations and Elections: CAPE Council
    7/29/2009
    Our CAPE council consists of 48 locally elected member representatives that drive SEIU Local 503’s voice in politics. Nominations are open August 10 through September 10.
  • Tentative Accord with State
    7/28/2009
    After eight months of negotiations, the SEIU 503 DAS Bargaining Team has reached a tentative agreement with the State on a new two-year contract through June 30, 2011.
  • Central Table Update 7/27/09
    7/27/2009

  • Final Settlement Summaries from Coalition Tables (DHS, Instistutions, ODOT, Specials)
    7/27/2009

  • OUS Bargaining Update 7/27/09
    7/27/2009

  • Adult Foster Home Bargaining Update: 7/24/09
    7/24/2009

  • OUS Bargaining Update 7/24/09
    7/24/2009

  • Central Table Update 7/22/09
    7/22/2009

  • State Moves on Economics
    7/22/2009
    "We are not there yet," the DAS bargaining team has reported to members, “but we are pleased to report the most significant movement on economic issues since central bargaining began."
  • Support your bargaining team and help win a better contract
    7/21/2009
    Four ways you can help
  • OUS Bargaining Update 7/20/09
    7/20/2009

  • Victory at Laurelhurst Village
    7/17/2009
    Laurelhurst Village Nursing Home of Portland has agreed to settle federal unfair labor practice charges filed by SEIU Local 503 and Elizabeth Lehr, its former "employee of the month" who was fired after she campaigned for a union.
  • What Can the Governor Be Thinking?
    7/16/2009
    Why does the Governor continue to ask state workers to sacrifice more—much more—than the Legislature has determined is needed to balance the budget?
  • Central Table Update 7/15/09
    7/15/2009

  • Adult Foster Home Bargaining Update: 7/10/09
    7/10/2009

  • Adult Foster Home Providers: Help win Providers' Rights
    7/10/2009
    Our bargaining team is fighting to establish Providers' Rights, fair payment systems, and timely payment in our Union contract. In order to win, we need to gather examples of times our basic rights have been ignored. Please complete this survey to tell the bargaining team about your experiences.
  • $65 Million and Not a Penny More
    7/9/2009
    Two chief legislative leaders have written to Governor Kulongoski and SEIU affirming the intent of a legislative budget note stating that savings from changes to state employee compensation need not total more than $65 million.
  • Central Table Update 7/9/09
    7/9/2009

  • Child Care Bargaining Update 7/9/09
    7/9/2009

  • If It’s Not Affordable, Health Care Isn't Fixed
    7/6/2009
    Make sure the people who represent you in Washington, D.C., know that if health care isn’t affordable for ordinary working
    people, the health care system isn’t working.
  • Homecare Bargaining Update 7/2/09
    7/2/2009

  • Activism Drove Victories in Capitol
    7/1/2009
    “Thanks in large part to an avalanche of member activism, we have had some great victories in the last couple of weeks in the Capitol,” SEIU 503 political director Arthur Towers reports.
  • Central Table Update 7/1/09
    7/1/2009

  • Child Care Budget and Bargaining Update
    7/1/2009

  • Thousands of Workers, One Message
    7/1/2009
    More than 400 members who work on the Capitol Mall poured out of their offices at noon June 30 and marched to the Governor's office to demand a fair contract.
  • Add-ons at Addus/Portland
    6/30/2009
    SEIU 503 members in Addus Healthcare’s Portland unit have reached agreement on a contract re-opener that increases wages, and expands some benefits.
  • City of Beaverton Members Ratify Contract
    6/30/2009
    City of Beaverton workers have ratified a new three-year contract. “In these difficult times, everyone has to come together to find solutions that are best for their communities,” said Lawrence Arnbrister, a city building Inspector.
  • OUS Bargaining Update 6/29/09
    6/29/2009

  • U of O CAT work and Bargaining Action
    6/26/2009
    View photos of the 6/26/09 action
  • An Action to Call
    6/24/2009
    With contracts set to expire June 30, state and university workers will turn their attention to Governor Ted Kulongoski and OUS Chancellor George Persteiner that day at worksite and campus actions.
  • Central Table Update 6/24/09
    6/24/2009

  • **UPDATED Election Results** - Notice of Nominations and Elections: NH, AFH
    6/22/2009
    Important information about nominations and elections for Nursing Home and Adult Foster Home positions on the SEIU Local 503 Board of Directors AND for Nursing Home and Adult Foster Home local officers.
  • Adult Foster Home Local 858, SEIU Local 503 Election Notice
    6/22/2009
    Important information about nominations and elections for officers of Adult Foster Home Local 858. Nominations open July 8 - July 29, 2009. Balloting August 17- September 8, 2009.
  • Notice of Nominations and Elections: Nursing Home Local Officer Elections
    6/22/2009

  • Homecare Bargaining Update 6/18/09
    6/18/2009

  • Institutions Coalition Final Settlement 6/18/09
    6/18/2009

  • OYA Action
    6/18/2009
    The legislation we need to pass in order for OYA to avoid huge cuts has been stuffed into House Bill 3508. HB 3508 is likely to be voted out of committee today (Thursday) and could go to the floor of the House for a vote as early as tomorrow. It is possible that we have until Monday but if it does not pass we do not see any other alternatives.
  • 2009 Scholarship Recipients
    6/17/2009
    SEIU Local 503 awarded 48 scholarships and awards totaling $30,000 to members and members’ immediate family members this year through a member scholarship program.
  • Central Table Update 6/17/09
    6/17/2009

  • Human Services Coalition Final Settlement 6/17/09
    6/17/2009

  • NAMI Walk a Success
    6/17/2009
    Purple was the color of the day when 6 walkers participated in the walk by the river front in Portland on May 17, 2009.
  • ODOT Coalition Final Settlement 6/16/09
    6/16/2009

  • Justice Delayed by Laurelhurst
    6/15/2009
    A nursing home accused of violating the rights of its employees and an anti-union law firm have teamed up to play a little hardball against a former “employee of the month” who was fired for engaging in union activity.
  • OUS Bargaining Update 6/15/09
    6/15/2009

  • Central Table Update 6/12/09
    6/12/2009

  • Specials Coalition Final Settlement 6/4/09
    6/10/2009

  • City of Beaverton Members Plant "Giving Garden"
    6/9/2009
    “The Mayor approached me about a month ago and asked if I thought the Union would want to tend a garden plot and then donate the food to a local food pantry. I said sign us up..."
  • “What Do We Want? Fairness!”
    6/8/2009
    After the marching and slogans and speeches and songs, the message came down to a simple chant rising from Terry Schrunk Plaza and echoing off the Portland skyscrapers around it: “What do we want? Fairness! When do we want it? Now!”
  • Homecare Bargaining Update 6/8/09
    6/8/2009

  • Take Action Now! Protect critical public services
    6/5/2009
    There is a record and growing demand for public services in the face of a $4 billion shortfall between what would be required to find current service levels in 2009-11 and the revenue the state anticipates it will have.
  • What Difference Does Two Feet Make?
    6/5/2009
    When it comes to dealing with violent patients, two feet can make the difference between patient and staff safety and serious injury.
  • Central Table Update 6/3/09
    6/3/2009

  • NLRB Accuses Nursing Home of Labor Violations
    6/2/2009
    The NLRB has issued a complaint accusing a Portland nursing home of threatening, intimidating, spying on and punishing employees who were attempting to organize a union. More information about Farmington Centers here.
  • Time to Send OUS Supervisors Back to School?
    6/2/2009
    There was little progress at the table in the latest round of bargaining with OUS May 28-29. But there was a notable moment of candor from a management negotiator during a discussion of expunging material from supervisory files.
  • Homecare Bargaining Update 6/1/09
    6/1/2009
    As we continue to bargain, we recognize that a huge part our struggle is still in the Legislature. Currently, the state’s proposed budget cuts could cause homecare workers to lose approximately 38% of their hours.
  • OUS Bargaining Update 6/1/09
    6/1/2009

  • Homecare Bargaining Update 5/29/09
    5/29/2009

  • OYA update and action alert 5/29/09
    5/29/2009

  • Glisan Workers Ratify First Contract
    5/22/2009
    Workers at the Glisan Care Center, a Prestige Care facility in northeast Portland have overwhelmingly approved their first contract. Glisan thus becomes the 26th SEIU 503-represented nursing home in Oregon.
  • Central Table Update 5/20/09
    5/20/2009

  • ODOT Coalition Bargaining Report 5/18/09
    5/18/2009

  • OUS Bargaining Update 5/18/09
    5/18/2009

  • OUS Bargainers Back at Table May 28
    5/16/2009
    More discussions over financial issues may commence when SEIU 503’s OSU bargaining committee re-engages management negotiators for two days of scheduled bargaining at Southern Oregon University in Ashland, May 28 and 29. 
  • Thousands Rally at Worksites
    5/15/2009
    Thousands of SEIU 503 members staged worksite actions outside more than two dozen state offices on May 14, urging a fair contract settlement and shared sacrifice.
  • United for Oregon March: Sunday June 7
    5/14/2009
    Join SEIU members and community, political, religious and labor leaders who will converge from across the state in a huge march in downtown Portland on Sunday June 7.
  • OYA update 5/13/09
    5/13/2009

  • Central Table Update 5/11/09
    5/11/2009

  • Homecare Bargaining Update 5/8/09
    5/8/2009

  • Care Providers in Capitol Spotlight
    5/5/2009
    SEIU Local 503 homecare, family childcare, adult foster home, and nursing home workers from all over Oregon were in the spotlight at the State Capitol in Salem May 4, demonstrating to legislators why their work is so important.
  • ODOT Coalition Group photos and video
    5/5/2009
    ODOT Coalition members speak out about what proposed furlough days would mean for the services they provide for Oregonians. Want to see your photo or video here? Contact your union steward or SEIU organizer.
  • Central Table Update 5/4/09
    5/4/2009

  • ODOT Coalition Bargaining Report 5/4/09
    5/4/2009

  • OUS Bargaining Update 5/4/09
    5/4/2009

  • Terror at Laurelhurst Village?
    5/4/2009
    How do you go from “Employee of the Month” to summary dismissal almost overnight?

 One way to start, Elizabeth Lehr discovered to her dismay last month, is by signing a union card.
  • Specials Coalition Bargaining Update 4/30/09
    4/30/2009

  • Messages for the Messengers
    4/28/2009
    Workers at state agencies and universities across Oregon paused for “unity breaks” April 27 as part of a “Day of Action” that included hundreds of phone calls to the men directing negotiations for the state and the Oregon University System.
  • ODOT Coalition Bargaining Report 4/28/09
    4/28/2009

  • OSH members come out in full force for April 27 day of action
    4/27/2009
    OSH members convened in front of the Comm Center to send a message to DAS that their offer is unacceptable. In front of the hospital, about 100 marchers braved the nippy air to let the public know we demand respect.
  • Central Table update 4/22/09
    4/22/2009

  • OUS Bargaining Update 4/17/09
    4/17/2009

  • PSU Rallies for Shared Sacrifice
    4/16/2009
    At a spirited rally April 16, about 100 SEIU members from PSU, along with student and community supporters, expressed their frustrations with the approach the OUS Management Bargaining Team is taking toward bargaining.
  • Speak Out on Proposed State Budget Cuts
    4/16/2009
    Legislators are holding hearings in eight Oregon communities between April 20 and May 1. Please plan to attend a hearing to tell our community and legislators why we need to protect and adequately fund the services we provide.
  • Specials Coalition Bargaining Update 4/16/09
    4/16/2009

  • A Community of Concern
    4/13/2009
    The fiscal crisis that is threatening jobs, services and Oregon's way of life brought SEIU 503 members, allies, and legislators together in Gresham April 11 to discuss strategies for dealing with the state budget shortfall.
  • Hundreds Rally for Health Reform
    4/9/2009
    In an effort to tell legislators to fix our broken healthcare system and support legislation aimed at making that happen, hundreds of members of SEIU Local 503 and coalition groups in support of healthcare reform rallied on the Capitol, April 8.  
  • Human Services Coalition Bargaining Update: 4/8/09
    4/8/2009

  • Worksite “Day of Action” April 27
    4/8/2009
    With little progress in bargaining and a $4 billion state revenue shortfall on the horizon, SEIU Local 503 members will deliver a message to managers April 27: don’t overburden front-line workers with a disproportionate share of the sacrifice.
  • ODOT Coalition Bargaining Report 4/7/09
    4/7/2009

  • Painting the Capitol Purple
    4/3/2009
    This year, SEIU Local 503 continued its tradition of filling the Capitol in Salem with an “army of purple.”  More than 500 members from around the state visited the building during 14 designated SEIU 503 lobby days to promote our goals:
  • Drive for Hungry in High Gear
    4/2/2009
    Compliance officer Lynne Nelson and her colleagues at the State Mortuary and Cemetery Board were honored April 1 for collecting more food per full-time employee than any other agency for the State Workers' Food Drive.
  • Specials Coalition Bargaining Update 4/2/09
    4/2/2009

  • OYA update 4/1/09
    4/1/2009

  • Homecare Bargaining Update 3/30/09
    3/30/2009

  • Human Services Coalition Bargaining Update: 3/30/09
    3/30/2009

  • “We’re Hiring!”
    3/27/2009
    SEIU 503 nursing home workers joined elected leaders and industry and consumer representatives March 27 to announce an agreement that will use federal stimulus dollars to help improve staffing ratios at facilities across Oregon.
  • Positive Sign?
    3/25/2009
    SEIU 503’s bargaining team sensed some progress in the latest round of talks when the state dropped its proposal for a mid-term “re-opener” that had outraged workers.
  • ODOT Coalition Bargaining Report 3/24/09
    3/24/2009

  • Marching Against Greed
    3/20/2009
    Members of SEIU, other labor unions and allies in the progressive movement marched on the World Trade Center in downtown Portland, March 19, echoing a message others were delivering all across America.
  • Specials Coalition Bargaining Update 3/19/09
    3/19/2009

  • OUS Bargaining Update 3/16/09
    3/16/2009

  • "Take Back the Take-Backs!"
    3/13/2009
    Over 100 OUS members rallied March 13 in the Oregon State University quad, bringing attention to the excessive and unreasonable proposals recently put forth by OUS management. OUS will bargain next at PSU on April 16 & 17.
  • Back to Basics
    3/11/2009
    Members of SEIU 503’s DAS bargaining team formally rejected a state proposal they deemed outrageous and “went back to basics” in negotiations March 9-10, starting on non-economic issues.
  • “We’re With You”
    3/9/2009
    SEIU 503 members turned out in force, Saturday morning March 7 to deliver a message to leaders of the Oregon Education Association: “We’re with you!”
  • Human Services Coalition Bargaining Update: 3/9/09
    3/9/2009

  • ODOT Coalition Bargaining Report 3/9/09
    3/9/2009

  • Legislators Take Up Contractor Reform
    3/5/2009
    Representatives of good-government groups joined SEIU 503 members March 9 to testify at an Oregon House committee hearing in support of two bills designed to increase transparency, quality, and accountability in the letting of public contracts.
  • Specials Coalition Bargaining Update 3/5/09
    3/5/2009

  • DAS members present: Voices for Hunger
    3/4/2009
    Eight of our most talented DAS members performed March 4 and 5 at the Employment Auditorium in Salem in the annual "Voices for Hunger" benefit to raise money for the Marion County Food Bank.
  • Calling Out the Presidents
    3/2/2009
    Classified workers at seven Oregon campuses are so upset by dreadfully regressive proposals  — one would eliminate all paid holidays — they are asking university presidents to play an active, constructive role in reaching a fair settlement.
  • "It's an Outrage!"
    2/25/2009
    SEIU 503 members sought out supervisors at worksites across Oregon Feb. 26 to deliver a strong message: the state’s latest regressive bargaining proposal is as outrageous as it is unacceptable.
  • State Workers Back at the Table
    2/20/2009
    Negotiators for 23,000 DAS and OUS workers return to the table the 23rd, resolved to bargain a fair contract but convinced that the state’s decision to pass up an early settlement is a missed opportunity for the state, union members and the public.
  • Hitting the Right Notes at Capitol
    2/19/2009
    Child care providers and state workers descended on the capitol February 19 to deliver messages about dealing with the state’s budget crisis in ways that prioritize working families and treat workers fairly in an atmosphere of shared sacrifice.
  • Specials Coalition Bargaining Update 2/19/09
    2/19/2009

  • Nationwide protests at Burger King
    2/18/2009
    Workers’ rights advocates call on Burger King and Goldman Sachs (one of BK’s largest owners) to stop using tax dollars for executive bonuses while workers rely on public assistance for health care.
  • State Workers Offer Early Settlement
    2/12/2009
    Citing a need for “shared sacrifice,” DAS and OUS members have offered to sign a two-year contract with the state that would effectively forego negotiations and even help the state close a portion of the gap in the current budget.
  • SEIU 503 Stewards Gather
    2/9/2009
    About 300 leaders from across Oregon gathered in Eugene Feb. 7-8 for SEIU 503’s biennial Stewards Conference.
  • Care Providers Throng the Capitol
    2/4/2009
    Hundreds of SEIU care providers came to the capitol February 4 to make their voices heard.
  • Care Provider Teams at the Table
    2/3/2009
    Three SEIU 503 bargaining teams representing about 18,000 homecare, adult foster care, and child care workers have commenced negotiations on new contracts with the state.
  • Homecare Bargaining Update 2/2/09
    2/2/2009

  • Change That Works at Bank of America
    1/29/2009
    Bank of America CEO Ken Lewis just doesn't get it. The era of greed and irresponsibility is over. On January 29, hundreds of SEIU activists around the country visited B of A locations to talk with tellers about why Lewis should be fired.
  • Health Care Coalition Ready to Dig In
    1/29/2009
    Patrick Featherstone, SEIU 503 homecare provider, was one of three SEIU members who spoke during a January 29 Health Services Coalition of Oregon press event at the Capitol.
  • Quality Service Tops Legislative Agenda
    1/29/2009
    SEIU 503 members have a word for the 2009 sessions of the Oregon Legislature and the U. S. Congress: Quality!
  • Lobby Days Kicked Off January 21
    1/21/2009
    SEIU 503 members converged on the Salem capitol this week, kicking off the 2009 Lobby Days! Members were at the capitol Wednesday morning to talk with legislators about their concerns around client care and how the proposed budget will negatively affect services.
  • Obama Inaugural Celebration
    1/20/2009
    SEIU members, staff and community supporters celebrate the Obama inauguration on Tuesday night, January 20 at SEIU 503 headquarters in Salem. Similar celebrations were held in the Portland and Eugene offices as well.
  • No Cuts to Long-Term Care!
    1/6/2009
    Proposed state cuts in funding for nursing homes and in-home care services could have a devastating impact on Oregon’s economy, according to a new study by EcoNorthwest.

  • 2009 Stewards' Conference Slated For February
    1/1/2009
    Stewards from across the state will come together for the 2009 biennial Stewards' Conference on February 7-8
  • Food for Thought at McDonald’s
    12/19/2008
    SEIU 503 members and staffers staged lunch-hour actions at McDonald’s fast food emporiums across Oregon December 18 as part of a national campaign to alert employees and customers to the chain’s anti-worker posture. The company later said it would back off previously announced opposition to the Employee Free Choice Act.
  • SEIU Snowflake Festival
    12/19/2008
    The Snowflake Festival Parade in Klamath Falls earlier this month provided a great opportunity for SEIU 503 members in the area to put a face on organized labor.
  • DAS Bargaining Is Under Way
    12/6/2008
    The DAS bargaining team held its first session with state negotiators, sending a clear message that SEIU 503 will pursue fair contracts that allow us to provide quality public services.
  • Capitol Rally for Quality Public Services
    9/4/2008
    DAS locals from Agriculture, Education, Consumer & Business Services, Treasury and Human Services located on the Capitol Mall sponsored a rally at the Capitol to bring attention to the parallels between quality public services, good contracts and the November election. Speakers included member Karen Miller (DHS), and Dennis Green (Employment).
  • New Contract Just the Start
    7/15/2008
    SEIU 503 members at CODA — Comprehensive Options for Drug Abuse — have ratified a new one-year contract improving wages, benefits and working conditions—and immediately set their sights on further improvements.
  • Employees Laud Historic First Contract
    6/16/2008
    Employees at the Rosemont Treatment Center and School in Southeast Portland who organized with SEIU 503 have overwhelmingly ratified an historic first contract with Morrison Child and Family Services after six months of collective bargaining.
  • Rosemont Workers Picket Morrison HQ
    6/6/2008
    More than 65 members at the Rosemont Treatment Center and School and their community supporters picketed the Portlandheadquarters of Morrison Child and Family Services June 6.
  • Marion Co Workers United on Issues
    5/22/2008
    Over 150 members joined the Marion County bargaining team in response to management's proposal to take away two of three weeks of Compensation Credits — a benefit we have had for over 20 years.
  • North Carolina Employees Join SEIU
    5/15/2008
    When the State Employee Association of North Carolina considered affiliating with SEIU, leaders found an ideal role model: SEIU 503.
  • Tentative Agreement with PPS
    2/6/2008
    Feb 6, 2008 - Members of SEIU Local 503 have reached an agreement with Portland Public Schools on a three-year contract for 300 custodians and 200 nutrition service workers.
  • Community at Large Speaks for PPS Workers
    1/30/2008
    Jan 30, 2008 - Following the Portland Tribune’s coverage of a rally in support of custodians and nutrition service workers in the Portland Public Schools, readers posted Web comments critical of the workers. That provoked responses...
  • Welcome! Menlo Park Workers
    11/27/2007
    On Nov 27, 2007, the workers at Menlo Park joined SEIU 503. This Portland nursing home was organized through a card check — part of our Alliance Agreement with six Oregon nursing home operators.
  • Welcome! New Members at Rosemont School
    10/10/2007
    The workers at Rosemont School for Girls in Portland voted Oct 10, 2007 to join our union by a wide margin.
  • Welcome! Molalla Manor Joins 503
    6/15/2007
    On July 23, 2007, Molalla Manor workers joined Local 503.
  • Largest Expansion of Bargaining Rights Since 1973
    6/1/2007
    The 2007 Legislature gave workers a voice at work with bargaining rights for child care workers and adult foster care workers, and new legislation allowing public employees to form unions through majority sign-up.
  • Workers' Comp: Guarantee or Benefit?
    6/1/2007
    The House of Representatives voted unanimously to pass HB3362, which gave Homecare workers assurance of Workers Compensation as a guarantee rather than a benefit to bargain.
  • Homecare Training Becomes Reality
    3/3/2006
    Through collective bargaining, our homecare members negotiated a training fund to provide much needed training.
  • "Common Threads"
    A conference open to all SEIU 503 members at the Portland field office Oct. 24, will focus on increasing diversity in the union.
  • Candidate for Executive Director: Heather Conroy
    Current Employer: SEIU Local 503
    Length/Years of Service: 13 years
    Local:  503
  • Candidate for Executive Director: Maggie Neel
    Current Employer: Oregon State University
    Length/Years of Service: 11 years
    Local: 083
  • Candidate for President: Kathleen Lamar
    Current Employer/Agency: Department of Justice
    Length/Years of Service: 11.5 years
    Local: 137
  • Candidate for President: Linda Burgin
    Current Employer/Agency: SEIU Local 503, OPEU (on leave from Dept. of Education)
    Years of Service: 26 years (Adult & Family Services, 2 years; Employment Department, 12 years; Department of Education, 10 years; Local 503 President, 2 years)
    Local: 581
  • Candidate for Secretary-Treasurer: Barbara Casey
    Current Employer: Department of Human Services
    Length/Years of Service: 11 years      
    Local: 200  Sub Local: 202
  • Candidate for Vice President: James Jacobson
    Current Employer/Agency: University of Oregon
    Length/Years of Service: 13 years
    Local: 085
  • Child Care Local 96 Elections

  • Congratulations to the newly elected Adult Foster Home Council and statewide officers!
    Adult Foster Home providers from across Oregon have been working together to make improvements for over a year now. We have experienced many firsts together: the first union for Adult Foster Home providers, our first union contact and the first significant increase to the Medicaid reimbursement rates. Now we welcome a new first, the election of the first Adult Foster Home Union President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Chief Steward and Council.
  • OUS Bargaining Conference September 19 in Salem
    A Bargaining Conference for OUS Bargaining Delegates and Alternates, Local Officers, Stewards, Contract Action Team Members (CATs) will be held at SEIU Salem Headquarters on Saturday, September 19, 2009 from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. » Download directions to SEIU Salem Headquarters [pdf]

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