February 27, 2026 — PEF Statewide Officers, including President Wayne Spence and Contract Team Chair Darlene Williams, are visiting worksites across the State to answer questions about ongoing negotiations, which began on Feb. 2. Together with members of the Contract Team and union staff from Organizing, Field Services and Communications, the group is informing members what happens if a successor agreement is not reached with the State before the current collective bargaining agreement expires on April 2, 2026.
The first meetings were held downstate this month, in Regions 10-12, and turnout was impressive! Members were provided an FAQ about what “sunsets” (that’s contract language for expires) and what doesn’t after April 2.
Many questions from members focused on the numbers – what percent across-the-board raises is PEF pushing for and what will be the duration of the contract? While it doesn’t make sense for the union to negotiate that in public, VP Williams assured members that affordability is a top concern. With prices for everything on the rise, PEF members deserve a contract that takes that into account and allows them to provide for their families.
Members also asked about reforming the pension plan and increasing geographic pay, both of which are not negotiated in the contract. PEF is part of a multi-union “Fix Tier 6” campaign and is pressing for legislative reforms this year to make Tiers 5 and 6 of the pension plan operate more like Tier 4. A massive rally is scheduled inside MVP Arena on March 8.
As for geographic pay and other differentials that can increase wages outside of the negotiated salary structure of the contract, members were referred to the PEF Civil Service Department Toolkit, which explains how they can advocate on their own behalf, with support from the union.
Contract Meetings continue next week in Regions 10 and 11 and will expand across the State throughout the next few months. Bookmark this page and check the PEF app for dates as they are scheduled. Members should RSVP for the meetingsso there are enough food and handouts for everyone.
