Child Care Workers Ratify Contract

Over 99% of SEIU 503 Members Say Yes to New Pact

Over 99% of members voting have said yes to a new two-year contract covering family child care providers represented by SEIU Local 503.

The vote at regional meetings and by mail ratifies a contract that not only preserves Oregon’s pioneering program in employment-related day care, but for the first time offers providers access to affordable health coverage.

“Settling a contract was only part of the battle,” said Portia Moye, a Portland-based child care provider who chaired the bargaining team. “Our work help protect services for more than 3,500 low-income working families and saved an estimated 1,800 provider jobs. The team unanimously recommended approval to union members, who will vote on ratification in the coming weeks.


Highlights of the contract include:

• Maintaining rates at current levels, which was considered crucial to retaining dependable providers who care for low-income children in safe, reliable homes and is a real victory in these economic times.
• Continued funding for training.
• Mandatory paid orientations for new child care providers that include a union presentation.
• A grievance procedure with steps and timelines for resolving disputes.
• Governor Ted Kulongoski’s support for SEIU to develop and administer a health insurance plan for child care workers that’s funded under the state’s Family Health Insurance Assistance Program starting in 2010.