AFT Negotiations Recap for February 17, 2026
Background
This recap details the third in person bargaining session for the negotiation for the collective bargaining agreement between AFT and UW. Recaps are published online on the UW Labor Relations website.
AFT Initial Proposals
Article 4: Union Rights
The Union’s initial comprehensive proposal included revisions to Sections 4.1, 4.2, and 4.3, as presented during the January 29th bargaining session. During this session, the Union proposed striking language in Section 4.7 that would have reduced the reassigned time position to 5% before gradually increasing it to 33%. Instead, the Union proposed new language stating that the reassigned time position would be maintained at 33%.
Article 24: Duration
The Union proposed striking the previous effective date and replacing it with a placeholder date to be updated upon ratification. The Union also proposed that the Agreement remain in effect for a duration of two (2) years from the date of ratification.
UW Initial Proposals
Article 5: Non-Discrimination
The Employer proposed housekeeping edits only, which included updating the reference from Executive Order 31 to Executive Order 81 concerning the prohibition of discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct.
Tentative Agreements
The parties tentatively agreed to maintain current contract language for the following articles:
- Preamble
- Article 1: Recognition
- Article 8: Management Rights
- Article 10: Separations
- Article 12: University Suspended Operations
- Article 13: Personnel Files
- Article 14: Corrective Action Formal Discipline
- Article 15: Leaves of Absence
- Article 17: Benefits
- Article 20: Labor Management Committee
- Article 25: Academic Freedom
Next Steps
The next UW & AFT bargaining session is scheduled for Monday, February 23, 2026, and will be held in person.