UW put 4%, 3%, 3% and an increase in housing to $10k the first year, $11k the second year, and $12k the third year on the table last night and told us that they are at the limit of what they can give in this contract. We countered with 9%, 9%, 9% and an increase in housing to 11k the first year, 11.5k the second year, and 12k the third year.
Tim Dellit’s email today indicated they are offering between 8 and 10% increases each year. That math doesn’t quite compute and is utilizing the most maximalist approach to costing. It also does not take into account several proposed items we have conceded in an attempt to bargain in good faith.
He is also threatening that UW cannot provide retroactive pay. Both of these claims are scare tactics to divide us and ensure we take less than we deserve out of fear.
While funding cut threats are real, the federal cuts don’t take effect until 2028, while student loan repayments and interest accumulation are already busting our budget now. Additionally, GME is heavily funded by Medicare which has not been cut. UW can find the money for other priorities such as executive compensation, construction projects, athletics programming, and many other priorities. UW is not prioritizing residents because they don’t feel that they have to, as the decision makers have determined that what is currently offered is all we are worth.
Here’s a full outline of what UW has on the table right now and what our union is proposing.
Right now, more than ever, we need to show UW we are not backing down and they need to find the money for residents. While residents have always been underpaid, UW in particular continues to pay less compared to peer institutions despite Seattle’s high cost of living. We understand we may not end up with 9% each year but we need more than 4%, 3%, 3%. We do that by making sure we are united and ready to take action.
The best way you can do that is by doing the following:
- Fill out our Bargaining Needs Assessment so we have an accurate understanding of what you need to settle this contract.
- Join Our Union. Our biggest strength comes from a credible threat to withhold our labor. The hospitals can’t run without us. We need to show UW we are ready and willing to stand united.
- Join our Contract Action Team. Our next meeting is Wednesday, August 13th at 7:00 PM. We will be planning our next big action and talking about how to get members engaged.
- Stay informed. Make sure you are checking in with your delegates, reps, and bargaining teams on upcoming actions and rallying your colleagues to participate.
CIR Northwest 