Bargaining teams for Eastern Michigan University and the
EMU Chapter of the American Association for University
Professors (AAUP) have filed their post-hearing briefs
in the next step of the fact-finding process, which began
in November 2006. EMU's brief is available online here (PDF
file).
Fact-finding is a conflict resolution process designed
to assist Michigan public employers and employees in the
collective bargaining process.
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Longworth |
After reviewing the post-hearing briefs, Benjamin Kerner,
the state-appointed fact finder, will issue a finding that
summarizes his recommendations for how best to resolve
the remaining issues in the negotiations. Kerner is expected
to present his recommendations by early April, if not sooner.
Both sides will then go back to the bargaining table to
negotiate an agreement based on the fact finder's recommendations.
The primary topics being addressed are compensation, health
care benefits and employer retirement contributions, according
to Rhonda Longworth, interim assistant vice president for
academic affairs.
"This has been a valuable process that I feel will help
us reach a fair and equitable solution," Longworth said. "We
hope to reach a settlement soon."
EMU asked the AAUP in September 2006 to join the university
in seeking the assistance of an impartial external fact
finder to assist in resolving stalled contract negotiations.
The 689 faculty members have been working under their previous
contract since Sept. 1, 2006.
