2012 Contract Campaign Priority Issue: Wage Increases June 4, 2012

In our contract survey, members identified wage increases as their top economic priority.  Despite the high standards that our Union has won, the economic crisis has made it difficult to make ends meet.  With widespread layoffs and unemployment, many of our members have become the only earner in their households. At the same time, the rising cost of everyday expenses like gas, housing, and groceries have put many of our members at the limits of their means. Over half of our members report in the contract survey that their stress level has increased over the last two years.

Because of our Union, our jobs are among the best in the region and provide higher pay rates than many similar jobs in southern Connecticut. When employees are paid wages “above the market,” management often seeks to limit raises.

But our work is the backbone of the local economy. For Connecticut to move out of the recession, Yale jobs must continue to set a standard.  A good job is one in which workers are fairly compensated for the work that they do, are financially stable, and can plan for the future.  As the economy fluctuates and our work changes with Yale’s growth, we need a strong contract that guarantees fair salaries and wage increases. When combined with job advancement that provides a way to move up, a jobs pipeline that puts more of our community back to work, and a strong healthcare package, wage increases strengthen a comprehensive plan to protect our jobs and keep our members secure.

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