The grievance procedure begins with those closest to the dispute -- both on the part of MCO and management. If they are unsuccessful in resolving the dispute, the grievance moves to continually higher representatives, much like the appeal system of the courts. The entire process takes four or five steps before it reaches the final stage of arbitration.

 

Here is the general procedure:

 

• Member and steward go to immediate supervisor with grievance discussing the contract violation.

 

• Steward or Chief Steward discusses with the Warden or Personnel Officer or other designee (disciplinary grievance).

 

• Chief Stewards or Chapter Presidents meet with Department Labor Relations Representative for second step conferences.

 

• If the grievance goes further, MCO Labor Relations Representatives meet with Department Labor Relations to resolve the grievance.

 

• Arbitration hearing is the final step in the process.

 

• As the grievance goes to higher levels, the original steward should make it their business to keep track of progress and to keep the grievant informed. The grievant will also receive a postcard from MCO Central Office when the grievance is appealed to Third Step or Pre-Arbitration, and they will receive a copy of the Request for Arbitration if the case cannot be resolved at an earlier step.

 

Our contract sets time limits for each step in the grievance procedure. It states that the grievance may be taken to the next step when the employer does not timely supply MCO with an answer at the lower level. MCO also has the responsibility of notifying the employer if it plans to take the grievance further. If not, the employer may assume MCO has dropped charges.