The union who represents Pennsylvania’s 14 state universities has refused to accept Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education salary and healthcare coverage offers. The Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties encouraged its members to strike, which went into effect at 5 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19. Union leaders and State System officials have been negotiating a contract since June 2015.
Both sides made significant progress during five days of negotiations, including reaching tentative agreements on more than a dozen significant issues, including distance education, recruitment and retention of high-quality faculty and professional responsibilities outside of the classroom.
Representatives of APSCUF have refused both the System’s salary offer and the proposed healthcare plan changes, even though it’s the same coverage other System employees have. APSCUF said that they are working for students and point the blame on the State System. The State System said they remain committed to reaching an agreement that is fair to everyone, especially students.
Who do you blame for causing the faculty strike at 14 Pennsylvania State Universities?
