Monday evening the negotiations committee of the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties (APSCUF) unanimously approved a tentative contract agreement with the State System of Higher Education (PASSHE).
The four-year deal mirrors the agreements reached by Governor Corbett and the other statewide unions. In addition to a compensation package that is similar to the statewide pattern, the tentative agreement contains changes to the health care plan, including increased co-pays for office visits, emergency room visits, and prescription medications. The specific details of the agreement will be released after the ratification process is complete.
For the first time, class size will be included in the collective bargaining agreement as an issue subject to curriculum committee recommendations. While the tentative agreement eliminates course development compensation for distance education, it provides for technical support and instructional design professionals to assist faculty.
APSCUF delegates will vote on the tentative agreement at a Legislative Assembly scheduled for later this week. If approved, the agreement will go to the full membership for ratification.