How does the collective bargaining process work?
A. Collective bargaining is a formal process that gives employees a voice in workplace decisions that affect their job and profession. It gives workers a special relationship with their employer in determining salary, benefits, hours and working conditions. More importantly, the collective bargaining process results in a contract that puts the negotiated agreement in writing. The terms of this agreement are then binding on both the employer and the union. Such an agreement protects employees from arbitrary treatment, and disagreements over the interpretation of the agreement may be taken to a third party arbitrator to resolve differences. Like a “Bill of Rights,” your contract serves as a written guarantee of your rights and duties. Neither the bargaining team nor the employer can change any part of your contract without renegotiating. With a collectively bargained contract, you will always know what is expected of you and what you can expect in return. Your contract will eliminate muc
