Living agreements for partnership structures

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Some union contracts include provisions that establish joint structures as flexible and evolving bodies, subject to regular review, renewal, or revision. These “living agreement” provisions recognize that collaborative efforts must adapt over time in response to changing conditions, organizational needs, or lessons learned through practice. Rather than fixing the terms of joint participation, these clauses support ongoing dialogue about the structure and function of the partnership itself.

Examples:

• “This Charter is a living document and will be reviewed periodically to evaluate the effectiveness of the Council, but no later than once a year, unless the parties agree otherwise. The Labor Management Council may review and recommend revisions to the Council Charter, when necessary, so long as there is consensus among the members of the Council for the change.” (AFGE-OPM3)
• “Within forty-five (45) days of the conclusion of each [contract year] covered by this Agreement, the Parties will meet and confer regarding potential changes to this Agreement based on developments during the previous year and any advice received by the [committee].” (MLBPA-PCBA6)
• “Any IT Task Group established under this Section will remain in operation for a minimum of one year unless the parties mutually decide to dissolve it sooner. At the end of the one year period, the Task Group may be renewed on an annual basis by mutual agreement.” (AFGE-OPM41)

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