We received news that the California Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) has finished counting the thousands of union authorization cards we submitted and determined that we’ve passed the threshold needed to proceed with a union election to confirm our decision to form RPSP-UAW. The incredible number of people involved in achieving this significant milestone speaks well of the unity, strength, and organization of the union we’re forming together. Here’s where we are on our road map:
What’s next?
The election date has not yet been set by the state labor board. Before PERB schedules an election, there is a 15-day waiting period for responses from UC leadership and other unions. If at least 10% of staff in our positions demonstrates support for joining any other union (such as UPTE), the ballot will include that union as an additional option. If there are challenges raised about our bargaining unit, they must be resolved by PERB before an election is set. But we hope to move quickly to an election so we can form our union and begin negotiating over issues that Research and Public Service Professionals have raised in conversations over the last few months, including increased job security, flexible schedules, and more.
To help prepare our community and ensure that everyone has access to accurate information during the important discussions ahead, Research and Public Service Professionals will be holding an Election Town Hall where we can go over the process in detail, answer any questions, and get ready for next steps with confidence. Look for that email invitation soon. To learn more, check out the website and/or schedule a chat with an RPSP organizing committee member. The more of us who talk with each other about what’s most important to us, the stronger our union becomes. Please write in with questions at any time to ensure that everyone can make informed decision
In solidarity,
Emily Jacobson
Project Policy Analyst
UC Berkeley
