With all the ballots counted, Los Angeles physicians voted in favor of instituting Fair Share Fees in their bargaining unit. Now all physicians, regardless of their membership status, will share—fairly!—the costs of running a union from which all physicians benefit. The decision to institute Fair Share Fees, which received strong majority backing in this vote, will dramatically increase the strength and effectiveness of the Union in Los Angeles.
With the added funds from Fair Share Fees, UAPD will be able to continue its close work with Los Angeles physicians. Physicians will also have a stronger voice at the Bargaining Table, as more people choose to become full members of a union when Fair Share Fees make the cost difference between joining and not joining less dramatic. It will also be possible for UAPD to keep the member dues lower over time because more unit members will be contributing. Fair Share Fees benefit the whole unit, members and non-members alike—that’s why all UAPD units, and nearly all California public sector unions, have them in place.
The election was conducted by the Los Angeles County Employee Relations Commission (ERCOM) in response to petitions signed by UAPD members last year. The UAPD membership in Los Angeles County and beyond owe a debt of gratitude to the dozens of physicians and staff members who have worked tirelessly over many months to publicize this issue and encourage physicians to vote. Congratulations to all!