Contracts covering the four major union bargaining units expired on June 30, 2008. Police and Fire union contract terms are decided by a neutral party, through an arbitration process, while the two unions representing non-uniformed employees negotiate their contracts with the City. Negotiations finished in October 2008, with a one-year contract settled by each bargaining unit.

Highlights include:

• Creation of the Joint Labor - Management Healthcare Evaluation Committee (with representatives for all employees): exploring ways to maximize the quality and competitiveness of benefits at an affordable price, through examination of best practices
• Reduction (or maintenance) of the City’s healthcare contribution, in line with actual costs
• $1,100 bonuses for D.C. 33 & 47 employees
• Pay increases for police officers, firefighters and paramedics

In the months of fiscal crisis leading up to formal negotiations for the next union contracts, the City has provided information and regular updates to the unions. During negotiations, the Administration will continue to share information on the City’s financial condition, and to engage in a data driven exchange with the union to identify changes in wages, benefits and work rules that can help restore fiscal stability to the City, provide enhanced job security to the workforce, and create greater efficiency in continuing to provide high quality service to the public.