MassDOT Unit A Contract Ratification FAQ
 

Q: What is the “Closing Shift” differential?
A: For employees regularly working or assigned to the closing shift at the registry, a pay differential is granted. This applies to both those rotating onto the closing shift, and those who management knows regularly work until closing.

Q: If I rotate to a closing shift as a CSR, do I get the differential?
A: Yes. All CSRs, including Cashiers, are eligible for the differential if working the closing shift.

Q: Does the addition of a “Closing Shift” pay differential mean the Union agreed to extended hours for the registry?
A: No. The Union didn't negotiate extended hours or Saturday shifts. Under M.G.L 150E, Management solely decides Registry hours. However, the Union has secured pay differentials for those working such shifts.

Q: Why use the term “closing shift” instead of stating something like, “the 10:00AM to 6:00PM shift?" 
A: Management has changed Registry hours before, and they are at liberty to change them again. This language ensures that the benefit does not stop due to Management changing registry hours. Currently the closing shift is 10:00AM to 6:00PM, or thereabouts.

Q: What are we voting on?
A: We're voting on an 11% pay increase over the three-year life of the new contract. Combined with the compounding effects from our current one-year contract, this totals an incredible 20.59%, at least, in raises from 2023 to 2027 if this contract passes. This is a significant boost for all!
Additionally, voting “yes” leads to: Increase in the minimum promotion factor from 3% to a minimum of 5%, an increase to standby pay from $17.50 to $35, an increase Shift Differential by $1 per hour, effective January 2025, an increase to the Weekend Differential by $1 per hour, the elimination of the one-day limit on Weekend Differential, an increase to travel and overtime meal reimbursement, the implementation of a Transportation Pass subsidy of 50% up to a monthly maximum of $150 for MBTA and Regional Transit Authorities, and the implementation Bi-lingual pay of $80 per pay period for employees providing translation services a significant portion of their work day.

Nationally, and on the statewide level, there is a conversation going on that is pitting two sides against the other. Regardless of any outcomes, this secures your economic prosperity. It allows us to move forward with economic dignity and respect and serve the public as we are called upon to do.

Q: If we vote "no," how will this impact the operation of the Registry branches, including their hours? Specifically, will a “no” vote affect management's decisions regarding extending branch hours and Saturday shifts?
A: No, voting "no" will not impact how management operates the registry branches, including their hours. Management has full authority to decide the means, mode, and method of branch operations. If the contract is not ratified, you will continue to work the same hours without any of the added benefits proposed in the new agreement.

If you have any questions, please reach out to President John Mann at jmann@nage.org or (781) 630-2462, or Executive Vice President Paula Moura at pmoura@nage.org or (508) 317-4942.