Improved Work Capacity Test, Tentative Agreement Reached

A tentative agreement was reached on Tuesday 4/16/2013 on an improved version of the Work Capacity Test (WCT).  Management and Labor both brought changes to the bargaining table to solve some problems with the Test that received a major overhaul in 2011.  Now if someone misses a scheduled date for the WCT (and up to three others), perhaps due to a out of Oregon assignment, the Department will be able to provide the test using a person certified in First Aid/ CPR/ AED who is willing and able to provide assistance at the test site. Also changed is the re-imbursement rate for those who need to see a medical professional as part of the pre-screening process.  The rate following ratification of the contract will now be $50, to more accurately reflect the current cost of co-pays.

It is a true testament to the listening skills of both Labor and Management to come to this agreement.

Next scheduled dates for ODOT Coalition bargaining are April 30,  May 14 and May 28 at OPRD Headquarters in Salem.

The next Forestry conference call is Sunday evening, April 28th and participant call numbers are available from SEIU Staff Organizer Timothy Welp or Forestry Local President Dave Wells.

The spring Statewide Forestry Meeting is May 18, 2013 in Coos Bay.  We will be meeting from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in the Coos Bay - North Bend Labor Temple located at 3427 Ash Street, North Bend.