July 23, 2024

Bargaining teams make some progress; mediator called in to assist in closing economic gaps in proposals

The administration and OU-AAUP continued bargaining during a July 23 session, making some progress on language proposals. However, as the two parties agreed they are still far apart on their respective economic proposals, a mediator has been requested to join the bargaining process.  

The Michigan Employment Relations Commission (MERC) will assign a mediator, an impartial and neutral person that will facilitate ways for the bargaining teams to explore possible resolution outcomes. The administration looks forward to a sustainable economic solution that accounts for the anticipated revenue head winds it will face in the coming years due in large part to the dramatic statewide reduction in high school graduates, which is compounded by the state’s new free community college program.

The next bargaining session will be scheduled after a mediator is assigned.