What is a union?

MFPE is a group of people working together to improve their work lives through collective bargaining. Having a union means we can collectively meet and negotiate with management over any issues that affect us and our jobs, including wages, health and retirement benefits, and working conditions. A union contract is a legally binding document that puts these agreements in writing. Through MFPE, we have strength in numbers to do things we could not do separately. We have the power and freedom to speak up for our rights, for our families, for the people we serve, and for all Montanans. As a union, MFPE advocates for strong public services, helps local groups of members bargain for salaries and benefits, defends members’ rights on the job, helps members expand their professional skills, and more.

MFPE: Montana’s Largest Union Protecting Your Rights

How do unions work?

Unions work like a democracy. They hold elections for officers who make decisions on behalf of members, giving workers more power on the job. MFPE is a grassroots organization run by and for its members. Every member has a vote and unrestricted access to every level of MFPE governance. MFPE has three governance levels: local, district, and state. We have several hundred local affiliates across the state. Local affiliates are organized into districts. District chairs and co-chairs form the state MFPE Board of Directors. Active MFPE members may run for any local, regional, or state office.