Advocacy Updates

Unions for Child Care Providers?

Providers have been contacted by representatives of AFSCME and SEIU. Rumors are rampant.

Misrepresentations abound. Information presented is not fully explained or is conflicting.

Providers sign cards believing they are requesting more information when in fact they have "voted" for that union to represent them. Grandiose promises are made about dues and benefits that have thus far remained mostly unfulfilled. They involve no money at this point - it is merely discussion between various union representatives, agencies, and government members. There has been misleading union advertising making unsubstantiated fiscal claims.

In some states, non-joiners must still pay "fair share" dues and have fees taken out of their county reimbursements. Might this also extend to grants? Minnesota is a "closed shop" state. Providers would not be allowed to refuse participation once a union has been approved. In other states, most of the "benefits" have been directed to unlicensed or unregistered providers. Where might that leave those who license their business with their state?

One highly touted benefit is health care. We have not yet found any providers who receive health benefits. These benefits would have to be funded by state legislatures. When was the last time you heard that child and family accounts were receiving any significant funding?

Dues may not be the last thing you could be required to pay. "Fair share" deductions from any increase may be fair game. After all...since the union negotiated it for you, they must deserve a portion of your "raise"...right? BEFORE signing anything: ask lots of questions and demand solid answers. Most aren't getting any answers. Require current contact data for further research. Locate persons not named in the ads.

Union representatives have been unwilling to respond to questions about the future position of your local child care associations or individual child care professionals and their role - their right! - to participate in the governmental processes of lawmaking. What are they afraid of?

As a child care professional, I would be deathly afraid of losing my right to voice my opinion in the processes surrounding my livelihood. Furthermore, where will the restrictions end?

Many of you already belong to a professional association(s). By working together, they could accomplish great things for child care and the professionals in the field. You already pay membership dues to organizations whose mission is, in part, to support the well being of its members. Why pay more?

A coalition of organizations, comprised of your established associations, with a plan of action advocating together for common agenda items (what's important to you?) is a powerful and effective force. This force can be applied to county commissioners, state legislators, and congressional representatives as well as state and federal agencies.

There is strength in numbers.

Each of you must take action. Be factual and polite and persistent.

Will you step forward to make a difference? Contact Professional Learning Alternatives, Inc. at info@pla-inc.org if you dare to take a stand.

Questions, comments, concerns?

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