October 6, 1999  NR 18-1999

The University of Alaska announced the ratification and approval of a collective bargaining agreement with one of its faculty unions, the Alaska Community Colleges Federation of Teachers. The Board of Regents unanimously approved the contract after 98% of union members voting ratified the three year deal.

The agreement was reached well in advance of the expiration of the current agreement and will go into effect on July 1, 2000. The new contract continues 2.6% across the board raises, clarifies employee contributions to the cost of health benefits and resolves notice issues for departing faculty. The agreement is now subject to approval and funding by the legislature.

"The agreement is in the interest of both the university and its faculty," said Michael Hostina, the university's director of labor relations. The process was amicable and the terms are reasonable. We believe the approach taken to negotiations offers both parties an opportunity to focus on our most important job: providing higher education to Alaskans."

For More Information Michael Hostina, Director of Labor Relations, 907-474-7879