When the UFT reached its last contract with the Department of Education, one of the headline provisions was a $3,000 ratification bonus for all members on active payroll as of June 27, 2023. The DOE made those payments but refused to pay retirees who were on terminal leave, claiming that terminal leave is not “active payroll”.
The UFT’s grievance department filed a Union-Initiated Grievance to protect those retirees. At arbitration, UFT President Michael Mulgrew testified that he personally negotiated the ratification bonus and when he did so he included those on terminal leave.
On September 12, 2025, arbitrator Howard Edelman sustained the grievance, crediting Mulgrew’s testimony with his decision to rule in the Union’s favor.
Thanks to Michael Mulgrew the members on terminal leave as of June 27, 2023 will now receive the $3,000 ratification bonus.
This victory is a reminder that when Unity leads, members win. It shows the value of having a president who not only negotiates strong agreements but also stands ready to defend them.