Commission approves rules taking away freedom from 35,000 state employees to negotiate overtime, seniority, grievances
LANSING – Hundreds of working people gathered outside the Capitol Commons building in Lansing today to oppose new civil service rules that take away the freedom from 35,000 state employees to negotiate together for important job protections like overtime pay, seniority, and grievances. The rules were supported by the Snyder administration, and approved by three of the four Civil Service Commissioners appointed by Governor Snyder.
“All working people deserve the freedom to negotiate together for a fair return on their work,” said Ron Bieber, President of the Michigan AFL-CIO. “But once again, Governor Snyder is rigging the rules of our state against working men and women like nurses, social workers, and bridge inspectors. These unfair new rules will make state government less efficient and less accountable by giving the governor more power to dictate working conditions, and by filling vital positions with his unskilled political cronies. That’s bad for families, bad for taxpayers, and bad for Michigan. Working families need leaders who will have our backs, and work together to build an economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthy.”
“This is another sad day for Michigan’s State employees and our economy. Governor Snyder’s Civil Service Commission, in a 3- 1 vote today, passed rule changes that are a direct attack on State employees’ rights and benefits,” said SEIU 517M Executive Director Liza Estlund Olson. “But make no mistake, though these rules have passed, we are ready to fight. SEIU 517M members are ready to stand together and ensure their voice is heard on the job. Our members know that their contracts help to create a more efficient, accountable government and that taxpayers deserve quality, public services not the Governor’s friend and family plan.”
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