Frequently asked questions
Who is 1199SEIU?
1199SEIU is a union for health care workers. It is part of the 1.8 million-member Service Employees International Union, the largest and most effective union for health care workers in the United States, with more than 400,000 home care members across the country.
What were the election results?
PCAs voted YES in support of our union by a margin of 94% – the returned ballots included 6,135 votes to unionize.
Why have PCAs voted to form a union?
PCAs joined together in a union to win better wages and benefits. While consumers have been advocating for PCA raises for years, pay is still too low and there are no benefits. This year, the state did not grant any pay raises for PCAs. Coming together as a PCA union is the only way we will get a pay raise.
Which PCAs are in the union?
PCAs who make $10.84/hour under Mass Health – now and in the future – are in the union.
What happens next?
PCAs are meeting all over the state to prepare to bargain a contract with the PCA Quality Workforce Council and the state over our wages, health insurance, and paid time off. The timeline for bargaining a contract depends on how long it takes to come to an agreement. No pay raises or benefits will take effect until a contract has been negotiated and approved by a majority of PCAs.
When will PCAs start paying union dues?
PCAs will start paying union dues after the first contract is negotiated and approved by a majority of PCAs. Dues equal 2% of a PCA’s gross pay and go to additional organizing of home and health care workers, political advocacy, and representation. Many PCAs are planning to contribute to a political action fund after the contract is ratified, which will give the union more power to elect legislators who support important issues like PCA raises and expanded hours for consumers.
Do consumers still have the right to hire/fire PCAs in the PCA union?
Yes. Nothing will change for PCA consumers in terms of their employer relationship with PCAs. Consumers will still have the right to hire, fire and direct their own care.
Will PCAs be able to file grievances to address unfair work rules?
No. Our PCA union is about building political power with the state to negotiate for better wages and benefits and an improved PCA program. We will not file grievances that challenge work rules set by our consumers.
How else is the PCA union working with the disability community?
The PCA union is working with the disability community to make the PCA program more responsive to consumers and to providers. Already, the union has supported initiatives like increased funding for independent living centers, accessible housing and advocacy around accessibility issues.
How can I get more involved?
Sign up now to take advantage of volunteer opportunities in your community. You can also call 877-409-1199 or e-mail info@pcavoice.org to find out what you can do to help. Additionally, you are invited to attend local meetings of PCAs to learn about what is going on with the campaign and to meet other PCAs who are working to build a strong movement that will fight for better wages and benefits.