Moments ago, the VLRB issued a decision, vindicating the rights of our members to have a say in their conditions of employment.
A STUNNING VICTORY!
Although the State has a right to appeal, we will vigorously seek to enforce this decision.
And while we know you will have questions, our VSEA Legal team is in the process of reviewing the decision and has committed to providing a more detailed analysis soon.
Thank you to all of the members for your commitment to this campaign, for stepping up, sharing your stories and staying engaged.
WHEREAS the Vermont State Employees’ Association (VSEA) exists to represent and defend the interests of working people and to promote the wellbeing of Vermont workers, their families, and the communities they serve; and
WHEREAS VSEA members are committed to the values of integrity, truth, fairness, compassion, and public service that sustain a democratic society; and
WHEREAS, VSEA has affirmed its commitment to science, responsible public policy, and practices that support a safe and sustainable future for Vermonters; and
WHEREAS VSEA members are committed to protecting the needs of Vermonters for clean air, clean water, food, housing, health care, education, and justice for all; and
WHEREAS the strength of the labor movement depends upon the engagement, solidarity, and civic participation of its members and chapters;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Vermont State Employees’ Association encourages chapters and members to meet, discuss, and prepare—within their abilities—to act collectively in defense of workers’ rights and in support of decency, kindness, truth, and mutual care; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that VSEA encourages its members and chapters to engage in civil discourse and freely assemble in furtherance of the principles identified above; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any activities undertaken pursuant to this resolution shall comply with applicable law, including the strike prohibitions contained in the State Employees Labor Relations Act (3 V.S.A.
§ 903(b)) and the Judicial Employees Labor Relations Act (3 V.S.A. § 1012(b)).
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Trustees directs the Executive Director to distribute this resolution to the VSEA membership via electronic mail.
VSEA members gathered on State House Day to connect directly with legislators about the issues impacting Vermont’s public workforce. Connecting with legislators is one way to make your voice heard and advance priorities for working Vermonters. #vermont#vtpoli#unionstrong#vermont
After months of waiting, the Return to Commute hearings, with the Vermont Labor Relations Board (VLRB) began last week, wrapping up yesterday, February 10.
Our formidable VSEA Legal team of Al Gordon O’Connell and Catherine Terrill were given the opportunity to provide the Vermont Labor Relations Board evidence and arguments in support of VSEA’s position. Chris Florian and Wendy Chen from the Attorney General’s office advocated on behalf of the State of Vermont.
The three hearing dates are available for you to view, if interested, by clicking on the links below:
VSEA would like to thank the many members who reached out, spoke up and shared their stories and experiences; many even willing to testify despite fears of retaliation.
It has been a challenging time for many, but we remain hopeful that through this process, we will see a positive outcome.
For an official hearing debrief from our legal team, please watch the above video.
