Oregon Legislative Aides Union Bargaining Update

During the legislative session, bargaining was temporarily paused, allowing the Assembly and staff the necessary time and resources needed to focus on their responsibilities in the legislature. Despite the pause in negotiations, the union, legislative aides, and branch representatives continued working collectively, addressing workplace issues away from the bargaining table as brought forth by the bargaining unit. Safety being a priority, both parties continue to address ongoing concerns related to new security measures implemented at the Capitol. The established open lines of communication and mutual respect have led to collective solutions to these and ongoing concerns around the building.

The groundbreaking nature of this first-of-its-kind bargaining unit, and the establishment of new bargaining structure legislation passed in the 2021 legislative session, led to delays in the initial bargaining process. Generally, first contracts take up to a year, or longer, to negotiate. This contract is no exception, though both parties have made a commitment to work towards an agreement as judiciously as possible. Legislative aides, branch leadership, and the union are focused on reaching a first contract agreement now that the 2022 session is concluded.

When parties have met for negotiations, dialogue has been engaging, constructive, and focused on reaching an agreement to represent the needs of the bargaining unit. While ambitious, this first contract will be comprehensive and represent the needs of legislative aides while respecting the demanding and essential nature of the work they perform.

A bicameral and bipartisan group of legislative aides are participating in bargaining sessions have shared their personal experiences on issues affecting their bargaining unit. We commend them on their collaborative efforts and representing their fellow staffers. We will continue to move forward in a collective nature to secure this important contract.