ALAMEDA COUNTY, CA – The EMS Captains of Falck Ambulance in Alameda County recently ratified their first collective bargaining agreement. The contract includes monumental improvements in nearly every aspect of the job, from wages to expanded protections and rights.
National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) union negotiators and Local 721 members led bargaining efforts for the landmark contract over the last 12 months. With their combined efforts, the union achieved great successes, including the creation of a wage scale for all employees, immediate wage increases for Captains up to $28,000 annually, increased bonuses and benefit cash out capabilities, and expanded workplace protections for every employee. For more information about the changes negotiated, please see the attached highlight sheet.
“This collective bargaining agreement is proof that the union can represent Captains and other titles across the country,” said NAGE EMS National Director Philip Petit. “We gave nothing back during our talks and our members received life-changing improvements, from health insurance costs to immediate wage increases.”
Though often overlooked, the Captains' contract now provides protections against arbitrary changes to their daily working conditions, clearly defines a disciplinary process and provides a method to grieve any discipline or violations of their contract.
“We’re proud to represent all facets of EMS and every level of provider in the field,” said NAGE EMS National Representative Dominic Curcuruto. “This contract is a home run for everybody involved, and we are hoping more Captains and other titles with area providers will reach out. We know we can help you too.”
Local 721 and the entire NAGE leadership team are extremely proud of our work together in Alameda County. Our ability to work with Falck Ambulance towards a fair and equitable agreement not only benefits the EMS professionals, but also strengthens the EMS system as a whole for the patients they serve.
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