ARTICLE 39. Leaves of Absence for Union Functions
A. In accordance with the provisions of this article the University shall provide reasonable leaves of absence for Union functions. The University has the discretion to deny the leave based on a compelling operational need of the employee’s home department.
B. The Union shall provide a written request for a Leave of Absence for Union Functions to the Manager, Employee & Labor Relations or designee. Requests for leaves shall be made five (5) working days in advance of the effective start date of the Leave.
C. Employees on approved Leave of Absence for Union Functions shall be paid by the University, and shall continue to accrue service credit, and shall retain all benefits to which the employee was entitled prior to the start of the leave. Any leave granted in accordance with this section shall not constitute a break in service.
D. The Union shall reimburse the University for all costs of employee compensation, including but not limited to, salary plus all benefits provided to the employee for the time the employee is on leave without loss of compensation. The Union shall submit payment to the University within thirty (30) days of receipt of confirmation of payment to the employee. The University has the right to terminate approvals for Leaves of Absence for Union Functions if the Union fails to provide timely payment.