June 23, 2007
Saturday

The State of Alaska's Division of Personnel and Labor Relations announced Friday that a three-year collective bargaining agreement has been reached with the Alaska State Employees Association (ASEA). The proposed contract succeeded in an advisory vote this week. A ratification vote expected in early August is required to make the agreement final. Negotiators for the State as well as ASEA bargaining unit representatives approved the tentative agreement today. ASEA is the State's largest collective bargaining unit representing 8,415 employees who work across all facets of State government. The agreement covers the period from July 1, 2007, through June 30, 2010.

This is the seventh agreement reached under the new administration, which leaves the Alaska Public Employees Association (APEA) as the only agreement outstanding.

Governor Palin responded to the news saying, "I am very encouraged at the results of the ASEA advisory vote. Moving forward in a positive direction is a huge win for the State of Alaska and all of this group's members."

"We value State employees and want the State to be an employer of choice. This is a big step toward recruiting new employees and retaining the dedicated, experienced employees who routinely provide great value to their fellow Alaskans," remarked Annette Kreitzer, Commissioner of the Department of Administration.

Dianne Kiesel, Director for the State of Alaska's Division of Personnel and Labor Relations, commented on the agreement, "The ASEA represents the largest group of employees we have in the State's system. I am pleased with the outcome of this vote. It indicates that the employees recognize that the State's offer is fair; in fact it is the best offer that has been put on the table in more than a decade." Kiesel outlined major elements in the new ASEA collective bargaining agreement:

• The State's contribution for health insurance will be covered at the level necessary to provide for the Select Benefits Default/Economy Plan, and;
• Salaries will increase four percent July 1, 2007, and by an additional three percent July 1, 2008, and July 1, 2009.

Tyler Andrews served as the Chief Spokesman for the State of Alaska. Jim Duncan served as the contract negotiator for ASEA.

Source of News:

Office of the Governor
www.gov.state.ak.us

 

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