Today, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) District 1199 reached a tentative agreement with the State of Ohio that would extend the current collective bargaining agreement until 2015.

"Today marks an historic agreement that is both economical and equitable given the current fiscal challenges that Ohio is facing," said Becky Williams, President of SEIU District 1199. "Ohio's public employees are committed to building better communities for everyone and this agreement demonstrates shared sacrifice in the spirit of cooperation."

The employees of the State of Ohio are dedicated to the delivery of quality and efficient public services. We want to work with our fellow citizens, elected officials and managers to save taxpayers money while investing in good jobs and our local communities.

Over the last decade, state employees have worked within their agencies to identify cost savings for taxpayers while improving services for the public. Today's settlement reassures that collective bargaining works in the State of Ohio.

As we move forward, we call upon state leaders to use a balanced approach to the challenges facing our local communities. We need to continue in the spirit of cooperation by creating good jobs that allow Ohioans to support their families. This can be done by reinvesting in our cities and towns while increasing revenue, closing unnecessary tax loopholes and supporting the values of middle-class Ohioans.

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