SECTION 11.55 GRIEVANCE RESOLUTION IMPROVEMENT PROCESS (GRIP)

New: 2/08

Definition

The Grievance Resolution Improvement Process (GRIP) is a process whereby grievances are scheduled on a monthly basis to be heard and answered by a GRIP Panel consisting of two (2) members selected by DAS-HRE and two (2) members selected by AFSCME.

As of July 1, 2007, GRIP includes all state agencies, except Community Based Corrections and the Board of Regents institutions. GRIP is limited to disciplinary grievances filed under the AFSCME collective bargaining agreement. No more than twenty (20) cases will be scheduled to be heard at GRIP per month. The procedures to be used by the GRIP Panel will be governed by the Rules of Procedures for the Grievance Resolution Improvement Process.

Grievances that have not been settled at Steps One or Two of the grievance process are eligible to be heard by the GRIP Panel. The issue as stated in the second step answer shall constitute the sole and entire subject matter to be heard by the GRIP Panel, unless the parties mutually agree to modify the scope of the grievance.

Docket and Schedule

The Cedar Rapids GRIP meetings are scheduled for the second Thursday and Friday of each month. The Des Moines GRIP meetings are scheduled for the last Thursday and Friday of each month.

The union creates a docket of all grievances unresolved at the conclusion of second step of the grievance process. To be heard at GRIP, the keeper of the docket (AFSCME/Iowa Council 61 President) must place the grievance on the GRIP docket within thirty (30) calendar days from receipt of the second step answer. The docket is updated monthly and submitted to the Management Co-chair.

For more information on GRIP, refer to Appendix N of the AFSCME collective bargaining agreement or contact the personnel officer assigned to your agency.