3/20 bargaining update

The latest email update went out, and it seems this session was a step back from our recent progress.

Even though the Guild agreed to a company proposal to accept wage freezes if they're implemented across LANG, and allow wage freezes to restrict negotiated raises, the company amended their proposal this session to include a provision that would eliminate negotiations over wage freezes altogether.

Their proposal also replaced the second year's 2% wage increase with a "wage re-opener" - essentially deferring the discussion, with no guarantee of employees receiving anything.

The company did not address Guild proposals regarding severance or vacation accrual.

Although the company is still trying to enable managers to perform bargaining unit work, MediaNews negotiator Jim Janiga said the company was considering reclassifying some of the currently-exempt management staffers as Guild unit members, in light of their regular performance of Guild work.

The next session is scheduled for Thursday, April 2. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Vicki Di Paolo at 562.259.9430 or scmg9400@gmail.com