With CFA and CSU management at impasse in successor contract negotiations, the two sides now move into “mediation” in an effort to settle the dispute.

Mediation is the second step in the “statutory process” outlined in state labor law. See a review of the statutory process.

Mediation begins with the State Mediation and Conciliation Service assigning a mediator (a State employee) to assist the parties in reaching a voluntary resolution of their disagreements.

The mediator meets individually and collectively with the parties. When (and if) the mediator reaches the conclusion that mediation cannot produce a settlement, he/she certifies the dispute for the next step: Fact-Finding.

Mediation comes after CFA informed the Chancellor’s representatives at the last bargaining session before Thanksgiving that the parties were clearly at impasse over a number of important provisions in the faculty contract. See a review of outstanding issues in bargaining.

Further updates on mediation will be forthcoming as the process moves ahead.