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Faculty contract expires, mediation set to continueSept. 8, 2008 KALAMAZOO--Although the contract between Western Michigan University and its faculty union, the American Association of University Professors, expired at midnight Sept. 5, University classes remain in session and mediation between the two sides is expected to continue this week. While faculty members are now working without a contract, the AAUP has filed for fact-finding, which essentially means both sides will honor required aspects of the just-expired contract. Although the union Web site refers to the possibility of "job actions," Michigan law does not permit a strike by public employees, and the University expects classes to continue as scheduled. Negotiations broke off late Sept. 5 with compensation at the heart of the disagreement. The University's latest offer, which remains on the table, would increase faculty pay by a minimum of 10.9 percent over three years. Incentive supplements offered as part of the package could boost the three-year increase as high as 14.6 percent. The next session between the two bargaining teams and a mediator is expected to take place on Friday, Sept. 12, at the latest. For updates and additional information, visit the negotiations Web site at wmich.edu/acb. Media contact: Cheryl Roland, (269) 387-8400, cheryl.roland@wmich.edu WMU News |
