APRIL 28, 2026—As bargaining for our next contract is underway, we're taking a closer look at collective bargaining, the legal process where a labor union and an employer negotiate a contract that covers the terms and conditions of employment.
How do we get a good contract?
We need to build our bargaining strength. Bargaining strength is the ability to achieve our bargaining goals and strengthen our contract. It comes from our solidarity, our determination and willingness to stick together. Taking action to show the boss we support our bargaining committee will send a message that we are not satisfied with the status quo or the boss’ demands. When management sees that we are united, it puts us in a stronger position at the bargaining table.
What happens in negotiations?
Negotiations take place at the bargaining table where representatives from the union and management come together to put forth and discuss proposals. We continue to negotiate. Both sides caucus (meet separately), make counteroffers, test out ideas, and look for ways to bridge differences. For most Local 100 members, there are main table negotiations, departmental negotiations, and special committee negotiations (Health and Safety, Grievance and Discipline, etc.). The union and management have certain mutual interests: both want the company to prosper and grow. But the union and management may differ on issues such as economic improvements, healthcare, and job security. The goal is to reach an agreement that will be mutually acceptable and beneficial to the company and to the union’s membership.
What kind of proposals are discussed in negotiations?
1. Main table discussions contain proposals such as wages, benefits, and healthcare, as well as support departmental proposals. Click here to see our main table demands.
2. Departmental negotiations consist of issues specific to each of the 16 divisions. They may include non-economic items such as breaks, picks, work rules, AVAs, promotional paths, overall morale boosting initiatives, and representative improvements, etc. Click here to see the demands for all divisions.
Do members get to vote on a tentative agreement?
TWU Local 100 members in good standing will vote to ratify or reject a tentative agreement after the executive board votes to send it to the membership. If an impasse is reached, and the contract is sent to arbitration, there is no vote and the arbitrator’s decision is final.
What happens if we don’t finish negotiations before the contract expiration date?
If the union and management have not reached an agreement by the contract expiration date, we have the following options:
1. We can continue to work while we increase pressure on management and continue to build our bargaining power. Our existing contract will remain in place as per the Triborough Amendment to New York State’s Taylor Law.
2. Arbitration. If both sides agree that agreement can’t be reached, they may choose to send the contract to arbitration. An independent arbitrator will be chosen by both sides and his or her decision is binding.
3. Strike. Under the Taylor Law, however, public sector unions are legally prohibited from striking. Despite this prohibition, public sector strikes have occurred over the years, and courts have imposed severe penalties on the unions. It is common for local unions to negotiate beyond the contract expiration date as both parties work the bargaining process and get closer to a deal. In order to reach a fair contract, we must prepare to take the actions necessary to show management that we are united, and we support our elected officers as they negotiate our collective bargaining agreement.
