imathA Firefighters union proposes a new benefit, night differential, at 2% the first year, then 3% the second year, and 4% the third year of a 3-year contract (the “differential” is to be paid for all hours, daytime too).

When the case heads to arbitration, the Union submits a proposal for a 9% night differential retroactive to the beginning of the first year of the contract.  Is this what is known as “regressive bargaining”?  Not at all, intones union counsel, because 2+3+4 = 9.

Get it? Neither do we.