AFSCME New Jersey finally gets new state contract
AFSCME New Jersey finally gets new state contract
Labor union settles negotiations with Governor after 3 years without contract
Trenton, NJ – AFSCME NJ Council 63 has settled with the state of New Jersey and Governor Murphy today for the union’s first contract since its expiration in July of 2015. Executive Director Steve Tully released the following statement:
“We are very happy with the new contract for the state employees represented by AFSCME NJ Council 63. After three years without a contract, it is refreshing to have a governor that knows that the first step to a stronger, fairer New Jersey, is a strong and fair contract for the people who keep New Jersey working.
AFSCME members are relied upon every single day to provide valuable services for some of the most vulnerable people in our state, including the developmentally disabled, veterans, children in need, and those with special needs. Our members work hard on behalf of the people of New Jersey, they deserve a fair contract, and that’s what they got today.”
AFSCME’s 1.6 million members provide the vital services that make America happen. With members in hundreds of different occupations — from nurses to corrections officers, child care providers to sanitation workers — AFSCME advocates for fairness in the workplace, excellence in public services and prosperity and opportunity for all working families.
###
From the Governor’s Office:
Governor Murphy Announces Contract Agreement with American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) New Jersey Council 63
“The agreement we have reached with AFSCME is a responsible and fair settlement for the State of New Jersey and for our AFSCME workers who haven’t had a contract since 2015,”said Governor Murphy. “This contract will provide fair wages, honor past increments that the prior administration refused to pay, and protect health care, among other benefits. We know that when we work together, we not only ensure progress for our state, but for our workforce and their families.”
“We are pleased to have reached an agreement with the State to settle our contract,” said Steve Tully, Executive Director of AFSCME NJ. “Our members work hard on behalf of the people of New Jersey and all they ask is to be treated with fairness and respect. This contract is a fair deal for our members, the State and the people of New Jersey.”
The agreement includes two Across the Board (ATB) increases: a two percent across the board increase, effective the first full pay period after August 15, 2017; and a second two percent increase, effective the first full pay period after July 1, 2018.
Additional components of the agreement include:
- Increments to be paid to employees on payroll as of the effective date of the agreement if the employees were eligible to receive increments between July 1, 2015 and the effective date of the agreement.
- A bonus payment of $650 for employees on payroll who were not eligible for an increment between July 1, 2015 and the effective date of the agreement.
- A bonus payment of $450 for retirees hired prior to July 1, 2015, who were eligible for one or more increments.
- A clothing maintenance payment for eligible employees retroactive to July 1, 2015.
- Continuation of the eye care program during the agreement’s term.
- Adding the AFSW, Levels 1-4, to the title list.
The agreement is subject to ratification by AFSCME members.
