Tentative deal reached after University of Washington student workers go on strike

The University of Washington (UW) and the union representing student workers appear to have reached an agreement, ending a one-day strike.

The tentative agreement was announced hours after thousands of student workers went on strike on Tuesday after union representatives and the university failed to agree on terms on Monday night. Labor union, United Auto Workers Local 4121; Said An agreement was reached on Tuesday.

The group said the new agreement includes a 36% increase in base pay compared to the contract, making it the largest pay increase the group’s bargaining unit has won in a contract. The agreement also includes higher hourly wages, increased child care reimbursement and improved health coverage.

The union also said on the website The agreement includes paid leave for immigration appointments and hearings.

Tuesday’s strike came after months of bargaining sessions between union representatives and university officials that began in February. The union represents his 6,000 student employees, including teaching assistants, researchers, tutors and more.

University spokesperson Victor Barta confirmed in a statement that the university had reached an agreement with the union. He said the union must ratify the contract in a vote expected to take place this week.

“I am pleased to report that we have reached a new contract agreement with UAW Local 4121, the union representing student employees,” he said in a statement.

“The union also agreed to suspend the strike pending the results of the ratification vote. Details of the full agreement will be announced soon,” Barta added.