On September 12, 2023, MIT reached a tentative agreement with the GSU. The next step is for members of the MIT GSU-UE to vote on the ratification of the agreement.
What is happening with the negotiations?
Where can I learn more about the progress of the collective bargaining agreement?
We will keep the MIT community updated on progress. You can also find relevant news and resources by visiting this website.
In collective bargaining negotiations, can MIT propose its own provisions or changes from the status quo?
Yes. Both MIT and the union representatives are free to propose any items or provisions for the contract, including changes from the status quo involving wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment.
Employers and unions are required by federal law to bargain collectively over “wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment.” Other issues of importance to many students — such as local housing costs and participation in Institute decision-making — are outside the scope of what is required to be negotiated.
How long do student union contract negotiations typically take?
Negotiating a contract, particularly a first contract, can take time. At most other private universities, more than a year has elapsed before a first contact is reached from the time the union was formally recognized or certified by the NLRB. Although the NLRB certified the GSU on April 19, 2022, MIT and the GSU did not begin negotiations until September 19, 2022.