All:

We completed the hearing on the union's unfair labor practice charge on Tuesday, July 18 in Lansing.  The Judge gave the parties 45 days after receipt of the transcripts (which should be within a couple of weeks) to file closing briefs.  That probably puts us somewhere around the middle of September for submission of briefs.  After that, the timing is in her hands for issuance of her recommended decision.  My impression is that she will attempt to issue her opinion as soon as possible, but it will still probably be a couple of months, if not more.  That then could be appealed to the full commission by any party, or all parties could accept her recommendation.

For the time being, we cannot legally return to contract negotiations because, as both the University and the Union were advised by Bob Strassburg of MERC, negotiations are precluded by the existence of a question of representation, and the union still has a blocking charge in effect which puts a hold on the decertification election.

I also understand the union has circulated communications among the faculty about raises this year.  Please continue to follow past practice and process your unit's salary adjustment recommendations.  Should anything change I will let you know, but for now please continue your evaluations and recommendations for faculty and nonrepresented staff.

Dave R