Members of the OHSU and AFSCME bargaining teams met yesterday in their first full collective bargaining session. Some members of both teams had previously met Feb. 1 to review less substantive topics, such as general ground rules.

Yesterday marked the first session with all team members present. Participants did a round of introductions and an ice breaker to kick-off collective bargaining on a more personal note.

Combined, more than 40 proposals were exchanged, providing a preview of the discussion to come over the next several weeks of bargaining.

"OHSU's bargaining team appreciates all the effort AFSCME's team brought forward," said Regina Lagging, OHSU labor relations director. "Yesterday's session was a good start to our collective bargaining process."

Going forward

The OHSU bargaining team acknowledges that this is a process, and looks forward to continuing a shared commitment to working honestly and fairly with one another. Teams return to the bargaining table on Tuesday, March 15.