Central Table Update 5/4/09

We are back at the table today and tomorrow tackling more aspects of the contract, though it is clear there will be no meaningful movement on economics until after the May 15 state revenue forecast is released. An update on these sessions will be posted on the web Wednesday.

In the interim we are revving up our campaign for a fair contract on three critical fronts: at the legislature, in our worksites, and in communication with those we serve -- the general public -- through paid ads and earned media.

Dozens of state and university workers testified before regional meetings of the Joint Legislative Ways and Means Committee in the past two weeks speaking out about the need to maintain the quality services we provide. SEIU members urged legislators to make sure that workers and those we serve don't shoulder an unfair burden during this economic downturn.

Our first radio and newspaper ads have run in select areas to draw attention to how badly budget cuts would harm the services we provide. Click here to see the print version of the ad, and here to listen to the radio version. We will continue to find opportunities to advocate for funding for quality services with legislators and the public particularly after revenue forecast is released and budget negotiations intensify. If you are interested in testifying before a committee or attending a legislative town hall contact your SEIU organizer.

Workers at state agencies and on university campuses 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. Members of SEIU Local 503 left a simple message for Director of Administrative Services Scott Harra and Vice Chancellor Jay Kenton: We and the community members we serve are willing to share in the sacrifices required to balance Oregon's budget but not bear an unfair share of the burden. See a slideshow of actions from around Oregon.

Our next day of action is Thursday, May 14th. Members who work on the Capitol Mall will be rallying in front of the Human Services Building at noon. Around the state, members are organizing worksite actions and noon rallies to show support for adequate funding and a fair contract. For more information about the action in your workplace, talk to your union steward or SEIU organizer.

We will follow these actions with a statewide rally and march for all members and their families and supporters in downtown Portland Sunday afternoon, June 7th. More details on this event will be available soon!

More recent news about DAS and OUS bargaining