Posted on the CAPT website
www.psychtechs.net
August 13, 2007

The President's View: Work in progress

As I write this, my phone has been ringing off the hook over the new agreement bringing DMH and DDS Psych Techs and Senior Psych Techs within 5 percent of Corrections pay.

We all have questions, but more details on the agreement are coming out through the CAPT website and fliers, and we'll be sure to keep you informed.

Recognition should be given to the governor, his staff and state department heads for listening to and acting on our pay and staffing concerns.

But the most important thing about this agreement is that we fought together and won together.

The evidence was right there on the state's document. Union's proposal to include DDS in pay increases: Accepted. Union's proposal for a longer retroactive date: Accepted. Union's proposal to increase training funds: Accepted. Union's proposal to include R&R in base pay: Accepted.

No one else won these proposals for us. We did it together, to help all of us and those we care for.

As a Lanterman Senior Psych Tech who's traveled throughout our DMH, DDS and CDCR facilities, I've seen with my own eyes that all our members work hard, regardless of where they do it. Whether it's helping clients reach their highest potential, coping with Corrections' "growing pains" to bring better mental health services to inmates, or making rehabilitation work in DMH -- a dedication that hit absolutely heroic levels during Atascadero State Hospital's recent power outage -- Psych Techs always step up to the plate.

That's why CAPT fights for all Psych Techs.

We showed everyone that unity during our recent statewide rallies. Not only did these events bring important public and media attention to our services, but also brought us together to work toward a common goal.

We've made progress, but as you know, there's more to do. Union work is always a work in progress. There are always new challenges to overcome or improvements that can be made to better serve the Californians in our care. But it's work that is worthwhile. Standing up for our services and enhancing conditions at our facilities helps our clients and patients as well as ourselves and our families: a real win-win.

Our work isn't over. We're making progress, but we need to keep this momentum going. After all, contract negotiations are only a few months away! Keep in contact with your chapter president and find out how you can help. And as always, feel free to call me with questions or concerns.

In unity Tony Myers CAPT Statewide President