Union membership non-dues paying limitations
What do you think you get for free when you don’t pay union dues? In 2018 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Janus v AFSCME, saying that public sector employees cannot be compelled to pay union dues if they choose not to join a union, as it violates their First Amendment rights. However, there is a misperception that those not paying union dues get the exact same package as those who do.
Our everyday work lives are influenced not solely by the terms of our Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) but also through a wide range of ever-changing University policies, procedures, and practices. Our full members know that there are many more aspects impacting our work life than those covered in our CBA. In addition to the extensive list of topics in the MSU Support Staff Employee Handbook, especially the section “Rule governing Personal Conduct of Employees”, our work can be constrained by individual departmental policies. In reviewing the depth of the MSU Policy and Procedures, it is apparent there are many areas where a partner can help traverse this complicated landscape.
The following are common topics not covered by the current CBA yet they are addressed by the APA/MEA/NEA resources when you are a dues-paying member. This is not the entire list, but it does reflect the ways we support and partner with our dues-paying members.
• All stages of a performance evaluation
• How to navigate during a first-year probationary period
• Help with reclassification to ensure you have options
• How to make an effective case for a promotion, merit recognition, or market equity raise
• Help crafting your conversations with your supervisor regarding workload expectations
• Negotiate a fair starting wage when changing a position on campus
• Applying for other positions on campus
• Advisement on new policy forms and how best to respond
• Discussing flexible work schedules including remote work agreements
• Understanding your rights under the Outside Work for Pay policy
• Standing up for compensatory time
• Exploring leave options
• Reviewing messaging in difficult situations
• Addressing FMLA concerns
Membership in the APA can empower you and improve your work life and career. It is difficult to navigate things alone, so having a partner is invaluable not only in troublesome situations but also when you are looking for career growth. It is when the “you” becomes “we”. When we have a diverse toolkit, we are more prepared to take on a multitude of challenges or opportunities. Non-dues paying members do not get the same thing for free. They miss out on numerous opportunities and advantages.
Our collective voice is the foundation of the protections we have today. It is the root system from where we grow. Membership not only re-enforces our foundation but forms our future. Active participation adds personal value when we gain partners who can advocate the entire breadth of issues encountered in our work.
If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to your APA as soon as possible.
Review the MSU Support Staff Handbook if you want a better look at the University policies.
In solidarity,
Martin McDonough
MSU APA President