We've listed some of the most frequently asked questions and a brief response. If don't see your question below, ask us by filling out the on-line question form. Of course, feel free to contact us by email or phone number.

1. How do I benefit by being represented by UPTE?

2. What is the difference between "fair share" and "dues" paid to UPTE?

3. How are the fees/dues calculated?

4. How are our fees/dues used?

5. What advantage is it to me, the employee, to join the union, since I am represented by the union whether I join or not?

6. Will the union make me go on strike?

7. How will my voice be heard?

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

1. How do I benefit by being represented by UPTE?

Those covered by UPTE have had many benefits. For instance, when UC insisted that exempt employees could not earn overtime pay, UPTE took the matter to court and won. When UC tried to remove all job titles from "Steps," UPTE fought and succeeded in keeping Steps for most employees. Non-UPTE employees lost out to the so-called "merit" and "incentive" pay raises, which are less than cost-of-living, inconsistent, and frequently inequitable. After many years of UC abuse of "casual" appointments, UPTE took on UC and won a 1000-hour limit for casual employees. After the 1000 hours, "casuals" must be converted to permanent, with all the benefits that come with such appointments. UPTE's policy analysis on HRMI (now PPSM) influenced significant improvements in theses policies. Some employees have benefited on an individual basis, too. For instance, when faced with a biased and unfair job evaluation, UPTE members have helped the employee rectify the situation.

For a fuller list of UPTE's recent accomplishments, please read "What Difference has UPTE Made?"

2. What is the difference between "fair share" and "dues" paid to UPTE?

State law requires that everyone who benefits from being covered by a union contract must pay what are known as "fair share" fees, whether or not they elect to become union members. The dollar amount for fair share is the same as for dues. Both members and nonmembers who are covered by UPTE get the same salary increases and the same help from the union, should they ask for it. But those who join, by their very membership, strengthen the union to be able to do more for everyone. And members have a say in what and how the union tackles on everyone's behalf.

3. How are the fees/dues calculated?

Fair share fees and union dues are currently 1.15% of your gross earnings, with a cap of $35 for those making $30,000 per year or more, and a cap of $25 for those making less than $30,000 per year. Non-represented employees pay $20 per month.

4. How are our fees/dues used?

Fair share fees and dues are used to pay the costs associated with negotiating and enforcing contracts, as well as providing representation for covered employees. For instance, in Santa Barbara we have one paid staff person, who was hired January 2002. His salary is paid by UPTE fees/dues. Delegates from our local chapter travel to UC-wide gatherings, which are to decide and strategize what UPTE will do in the coming months. Official delegates' travel expenses are paid by fees/dues.

5. What advantage is it to me, the employee, to join the union, since I am represented by the union whether I join or not?

Each employee who joins UPTe adds to our strength at the bargaining table and with the legislature and regents. Our only strength is through numbers.

When you join UPTE, you gain an instant voice in the day-to-day operations of your union. We are a member-run and democratic union. With the strength of all of our voices together, we can continue to negotiate stronger contracts, with equitable and timely raises, better and stronger job security language, safer and more comfortable workplaces, and many other needed improvements. Unions without members cannot be successful, here at UC or anywhere else. If we want to have a real presence at the bargaining table, and a chance to address serious issues like merit pay and job security, we are going to have to continue to build an organization with members. The dues are modest and the potential is great.

The job you improve will be your own!

6. Will the union make me go on strike?

Strikes must be authorized by a vote of the membership. Overwhelming member support for a strike has to exist in order for one to be called. Even if a strike is called, UPTE can force no one to strike.

7. How will my voice be heard?

UPTE is a member-run organization which is supported by member dues. Members have the right to attend all union meetings, vote on issues of concern, make decisions about the union's priorities, run for elected office, serve on negotiating teams, and vote on proposed contract language. Non-members do not have these rights. Joining the union and becoming active are the only ways to insure that your views are represented.