Minnesota State Workers Secure Major Wins in New Contract Agreement

State Workers in Minnesota Achieve Contract Success Through Collective Efforts

In a negotiation process that many described as the toughest in decades, AFSCME Council 5 representatives have reached a groundbreaking tentative agreement with the state of Minnesota. The new contract, effective as of June 27, impacts 18,000 state employees and highlights the strength of collective action among workers.

By August, the agreement was ratified with strong support from Council 5 members, marking significant progress against proposals that could have negatively affected workers. Key achievements include preventing drastic changes to health insurance plans, preserving step increases, securing wage hikes, and ensuring compensation for mandatory overtime.

• Health care plans remained unchanged, averting substantial cuts.
• Step increases were maintained, countering attempts to freeze them.
• State-wide wage increases of 1.5% in 2025 and 1.75% in 2026 were secured.
• Workers will receive $100 for any improperly enforced overtime shifts.

Bart Andersen, Executive Director of Council 5, expressed the significance of these victories: “These victories were possible only because AFSCME Council 5 members and our other valued labor partners refused to let Minnesota politicians and state negotiators strip away our hard-earned rights. By standing together, our union members forced the state to back off its most egregious proposals and deliver real improvements.”

Andersen also emphasized the ongoing nature of their efforts: “Our fight is not over. The next round of negotiations will come quickly, and AFSCME Council 5 members and our allies are already preparing to win more for the workers who make Minnesota happen.”

As Council 5 prepares for future negotiations, the focus remains on fostering greater member engagement and solidarity. This contract negotiation underscores the broader goals of ensuring dignity and respect for workers, alongside financial benefits. The unity displayed by AFSCME members has proven to be a powerful force in achieving these objectives.