The Valley Mountain Regional Medical Center (VMRC) in San Joaquin County is celebrating a victory! They won a new contract reopener with 5% pay raises over two years, plus increases to their health care coverage contributions. This protection and benefits come just as members brace to face H.R.1federal funding cuts.  

Management came to the table with the one-year extension and an increase in benefits for both years. This significant pay raises and length of contract was unprecedented in recent years. The bargaining team also negotiated an additional holiday to honor California Native American Day. 

The major benefits include:

• Year 1: 2.75% salary increase and a $1,200 one-time payment
• Year 2: 2.75% salary increase and a $500 one-time payment
• Bilingual Differential: Increased to $1.25 per hour
• Additional Holiday: California Native American Day added, increasing the total number of paid holidays to 17
• Health Benefits: 2.5% increase in health benefit coverage contributions

“Regional centers are 100% funded by the State of California so we are facing major concerns around what we may be facing next year,” said Mary Duncan, Vice President Chief Steward with VMRC and Treasurer of SEIU 1021. “This is a big win with more money in our pockets for two years rather than having to come back next year with another fight after all the federal cuts. I’m glad we were able to get guaranteed money and help with healthcare costs which tend to go up.”