The union represents nearly 2,000 UC professors. Their contract expired Aug. 31, and members voted Oct. 18 to authorize a strike. The union last went on strike in 1993, disrupting classes. University spokesman Greg Hand, though, said no official agreement had been reached. In the past, Mr. Hand has said uncertain state funding and declining enrollment were forcing the university to take a hard stand against raises.
Negotiations are to continue today with the faculty representatives.
Leaders have scheduled a meeting Thursday to update members. A one-day strike on the first day of classes in September caused no major disruptions at any of the university's campuses. The union represents employees in such departments as registration, parking support, financial aid, admissions, purchasing and the library. Leaders with the SEIU have scheduled a Thursday membership meeting to update workers on negotiations and to detail strike preparations. The union has a negotiating session scheduled for Friday.