Building Fee Waiver
We have heard concerns from many members that the building fee is not being waived properly. To give some context, this fee had never before been waived until our recent contract negotiations with the University. And in the contract we ratified, there is a commitment from the University to completely waive tuition (both the Operating fee and the Building Fee) for TAs and RAs with 50% FTE appointments. So every 50% TA or RA should receive a waiver for the Building Fee.
Our understanding is that University management is aware of this mistake and is working to correct it, but we will continue to put pressure on the University to get this taken care of as soon as possible. In the meantime, please be aware that that the fee payment deadline for Fall quarter is October 16th. At this point we are not sure how UW will reimburse ASEs who have already paid the building fee, but we will take action to ensure that anyone who paid the incorrect amount gets reimbursed. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.
Minimum Wage Update
Also as you may have heard we succeeded in moving UW to take a big step in the year-long campaign to achieve a minimum wage increase for all. Take a look at news coverage on this exciting development:
- $15/hour coalition at UW scores major victory
- After protests, UW decides to follow Seattle $15 wage law
While this coalition effort marks a real victory we still are not clear that this means full implementation for the entire system, and that student workers in Tacoma and Bothell can expect commensurate increases. Stay tuned for more on plans of action and let us know if you’d like to get more involved.