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Penn and Graduate Workers Union Reach Tentative First Contract, Averting Strike

Member ratification will determine final approval of the two-year pact reached after 18 months of bargaining.

Overview

  • The deal was finalized in the early hours before the Feb. 17 strike deadline after what the union called last‑minute concessions by Penn.
  • If ratified, the minimum annual stipend would be $49,000 starting April 1, the hourly floor would be $25, and a 3% raise would take effect on July 1, 2027.
  • The agreement adds six weeks of paid medical leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, stronger anti‑discrimination and harassment protections, and improved vision and dental coverage.
  • Penn would establish a $200,000 annual fund to offset dependents’ health insurance premiums and a $50,000 yearly fund to assist international students with visa costs.
  • The tentative contract covers about 3,400 teaching and research assistants, and a ratification vote date has not yet been announced following public calls from local officials to avert a work stoppage.