State system union faculty approve strike authorization

(Harrisburg) -- Union faculty at Pennsylvania's 14 state-owned universities have given their leadership the authority to call a strike.

The Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties announced results of a vote today. Members had cast ballots at 14 campuses, including Shippensburg, Millersville, Kutztown and Bloomsburg, earlier this week.

The vote empowers union chapter presidents at each school to call a strike. Ten of the 14 must approve a walkout.

Faculty and coaches have been working without a contract since June 2011. Talks have stalled over issues including compensation for temporary instructors, health care benefits and online education.

There has never been a faculty strike in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.

Another negotiating session is set for Dec. 11. Meanwhile, classes will continue for the system's 120,000 students.