SEIU National Agreement with Kaiser: What You Need to Know
The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) reached a new national agreement with Kaiser Permanente, one of the largest healthcare providers in the United States. This agreement aims to improve the working conditions and benefits of about 85,000 SEIU-represented employees across California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia.
The SEIU and Kaiser negotiations started in February 2021, and after several months of talks, they finally announced a new five-year agreement in August. The agreement covers a wide range of issues, from wage increases and job security to diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Here are the key points of the SEIU national agreement with Kaiser:
1. Wage increases: SEIU-represented employees will receive annual wage increases ranging from 2% to 3% over the next five years, depending on their job category and geographic location.
2. Job security: The agreement includes provisions for job security and protections against outsourcing. Employees in certain job categories will also have opportunities for career advancement and training.
3. Benefits: The agreement maintains current healthcare benefits and improves retirement benefits for SEIU-represented employees. It also includes a new education fund to support employee career development and a new paid parental leave benefit.
4. Diversity and inclusion: The agreement includes initiatives to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion in Kaiser`s workforce. This includes a commitment to hiring more underrepresented groups, training on unconscious bias, and establishing a new workforce diversity council.
The SEIU national agreement with Kaiser is significant not only for the affected employees but also for the broader labor movement. As more workers seek better wages, benefits, and working conditions, unions like the SEIU are playing a crucial role in negotiating with employers to achieve these goals.
Furthermore, this agreement sets a standard for other healthcare providers and employers across the country to follow. As labor shortages and workforce demands intensify, employers who prioritize their employees` needs and well-being will ultimately be more successful and competitive.
In conclusion, the SEIU national agreement with Kaiser demonstrates the power of collective bargaining and highlights the importance of improving working conditions and benefits for workers. As the labor landscape evolves, it is crucial for employers to listen and respond to their employees` needs and for unions to continue advocating for their members.