A union representing 1,833 professional employees at UConn has bowed to political pressure, voting to withdraw a recently negotiated contract amid criticisms it was too costly for taxpayers.
About 78 percent of University of Connecticut Professional Employees Association members voted Thursday to renegotiate a five-year deal that would have given its members raises in exchange for working longer work weeks (40 hours instead of 35).
The deal, however, drew criticism from Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Republicans after an analysis found the deal would cost taxpayers nearly $96 million, at a time when the state is facing major budget deficits.
UCPEA members will continue to work under the terms of their current contract until there is a new contract.
“This is a democratic decision made by our members,” said Kathleen Sanner, UCPEA president. “Our priorities heading back to the collective bargaining process remains to do what is right for our members, the university we care about and our students. We will continue to work and ensure that our voice is heard in Hartford to support the collective bargaining process, which was so egregiously disrespected by the governor and the General Assembly.”
