What really changes when a contract expires?

By law, current wages, benefits and terms of employment will continue unless or until an agreement is reached or the parties become hopelessly deadlocked in the negotiations. The Union still can file grievances, but if the grievances are not resolved in the Union’s favor it cannot demand arbitration. Without a contract there is no arbitration of issues arising after the contract has expired.

What other changes are there?

When the labor contract expires so does its “no-strike-no-lockout clause.”  Thus, a union can strike the employer, and the employer can lock out the union to try to force a settlement.

Can the Union strike Crozer at any time?

Without a contract, the union can strike at any time, subject to first providing a legally required 10 days strike notice to the Hospital and federal and state mediation agencies. This legally required notice is designed to protect patients from a surprise strike.

Is Crozer prepared for a strike?

Yes.  Given the expiration of the contract, Crozer has in place a contingency plan that will ensure a continuation of emergency medical services which provided on a temporary basis by licensed and experienced paramedics who are  currently working at other area hos

Can Crozer conduct a lockout?

Crozer wants a settlement and does not want to resort to a lock-out to force one.  However, federal law gives Crozer the right to lock out the paramedics and EMTs to force an end to the labor dispute.

How long could this go on?

Most negotiations eventually result in an agreement and we have always been able to settle our EMS contract without a strike. However, there is no time limit on negotiations.