MGEC met with the State August 17, 2023. At this stage of bargaining, the state likes to propose “drop/drop” packages to eliminate many of the proposals made by either side. MGEC asked that the process focus on proposals most important to reach a voluntary agreement that might be satisfactory to the parties. Given a clear history of the state providing the same Across The Board (ATB) increases to all unions, MGEC proposed the State make their economic offer so all proposals could be considered at the same time. The State responded with a take it all or nothing package that included increases to the wage grids of 5.5% the first year and 4.5% the second year. MGEC also shared the findings of a Compensation Study which the State is considering and will yet respond to.
Bargaining resumes August 25th. The state has not accepted most of MGEC proposals but have indicated several of their proposals are important to them. MGEC members are seeking a contract providing them with parity when it comes to terms and conditions provided to other unions (OT calculation, meal allowances, etc…) and compensation that meets or surpasses the market rate paid by other employers. This summary is not meant to be all inclusive but a simple and brief update on where things are at in bargaining currently. MGEC will continue to work diligently towards a voluntary agreement.