UC and UAW reached a tentative agreement on a first contract for more than 1600 ComMaS employees systemwide

The University of California and the United Auto Workers announced a tentative agreement on a historic first contract covering more than 1,600 Communication, Marketing, and Media Specialists (ComMaS) across UC campuses and medical centers.

The proposed four-year pact follows months of productive negotiations between university representatives and union bargaining teams. Key provisions include cumulative wage increases of nearly 28 percent over the term of the agreement, caps on annual healthcare premium increases, and standardized workplace safety provisions.

Significantly, the contract incorporates pioneering workplace protections regarding the implementation of artificial intelligence tools, establishing transparent guidelines on technological changes and retraining opportunities for union members.

Union leadership praised the agreement as a major step forward for creative and communications professionals across the UC system. A ratification vote by members will take place over the coming weeks, after which the contract terms will be formally implemented.