COVID Impact Bargaining Update
Dear Colleagues,
The BOT and UFF have come to agreement on a new Covid-19 Memorandum of Understanding to cover the period ending August 6, 2021. The particulars are similar to those in the agreement that covered Spring 2021. Thus, faculty still may request remote assignments, course content and course delivery materials will still be treated like any other faculty-created materials, SPCI will be administered, and the impact of the pandemic on research will be considered in evaluations through 2023.
Some differences also appear. While the default for service assignments is still that they may be conducted remotely, the Dean can specify they be conducted in person. And while Assistant Professors employed in Spring 2020 are automatically granted a tenure-clock extension, those hired later must request an extension. In those cases, the MOU specifies that the pandemic constitutes a “personal qualifying circumstance” that applies to the provision in 15.2(f)4: “Extension of Tenure-Earning Period for Personal Circumstances. . . . A faculty member may request an extension of one year from the chair with the approval of the president and dean or representative due to qualifying personal circumstances, before being considered for tenure.”
We are engaging in regular bargaining Wednesday this week from 2:00 to 5:00, and we would be pleased to have you join us. Just respond to this note and we’ll send you the Zoom link.
As always, our strength in bargaining depends on our numbers. If you are a member, thank you; it you are not, please join! You can find the form here.
All best,
Irene Padavic and Scott Hannahs
Co-Chief Negotiators, UFF-FSU
