State workers union lauds fact-finder report

The Vermont State Employees Association is hailing a new fact-finder report as a dispute between the union’s judiciary unit continues.

The bargaining unit has been negotiating with the state for nearly a year on a new contract. The fact-finder’s report is an effort to help the two sides reach a mutual agreed upon decision.

The fact-finder’s report, according to the VSEA, has recommended that docket clerks and court officers receive an immediate wage review by a third party that hears evidence from both sides. The report also recommended the adoption of several of VSEA’s proposed employee reclassification process.

The VSEA said the fact-finder rejected a request from the court administration to begin bargaining after the legislative session starts, which is after the judiciary’s budget is submitted for approval.

Read more: http://www.timesargus.com/article/20161126/NEWS03/161129691