Q. Will the union tell me how to run my business?
A. NO. As providers we will continue to run our own businesses, write our contracts and negotiate rates with our parents just like we have always done. Forming our union is about having a stronger voice at the state level.
Q. Will I be forced to join the union?
A. NO. We will negotiate with the state and decide who will be in the union and who will be paying dues.
Q. How much are dues?
A. No one will pay dues until we get together to meet and make decisions as a group, negotiating and voting on a contract with DHS. Then we will vote on how much the contract is worth and will set our dues accordingly. (Many of us are associate members who have volunteered to pay dues to keep the campaign moving forward. Associate members currently pay $10.00 a month)
Q. Why do we need a union if our associations are already working for us?
A. Associations are important — they offer training, mentoring, and networking. However, unions are the only organizations that have a legal standing to bargain and negotiate with the state. SEIU Kids First has a great track record. For example, in other states where we are recognized, we have been able to fight cuts to early learning funding and in many states we have won substantial increases in the subsidy rate. And in each of the 15 states that have unions, providers have had a voice in discussing where valuable resources are spent.
Q. Will we have to go on strike?
A. Kids First Providers are not seeking the right to strike. No executive order signed in any other state has given providers the right to strike, so this is not an issue.
Q. I signed a card so does that make me a member?
A. NO. Providers throughout Minnesota signed authorization cards to support forming a union to win a voice, respect and a seat at every table; but it does not mean you are a member.
Q What will dues be used for?
A. Member dues make it possible to ensure that each of us has a seat at the table in St. Paul, giving voice to the challenges unique to our profession. Dues allow us to keep our organization running and growing through new organizing, lobbying on behalf of providers and the children we serve, our Kids First Conventions, researchers, grant writing, newsletters — to name just a few benefits. We’ll also get together for social and professional networking events, SEIU picnics and special celebrations.
