In 2013 American University began their contractual relationship with SEIU Local 500 as the official union for all adjunct instructors affiliated with the university. 

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All AU adjuncts need to register with the union and either opt in (pay regular union dues per pay period) or opt out (pay regular agency fee per pay period). 

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The following qualification are the only exempt statuses that can be claimed:

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1. I was employed by AU before June 1, 2013.

2. Are members of federal, state, or District of Columbia judicial, legislative, or executive branches of government;

3. Hold diplomatic or ambassador status;

4. Are full or part-time employees of the International Monetary Fund or the World Bank Group;

5. Are not paid directly by the University and whose services are instead procured through a contractual arrangement between the University and the employee’s primary employer;

6. Are retired full-time University faculty who have emeritus status;

7. Are appointed to teach a compressed course (i.e., six weeks or fewer in duration); or

8. Affirm that, due to the nature of their employment outside of American University, they are prevented from paying dues or an agency fee to a labor organization because so doing would inhibit the ability of the employee to perform services for his or her non-University employer. Employees exempted under this Section shall be required to make contributions in an amount equal to the agency fee to a charitable organization(s) of the employee’s choice, in lieu of paying the agency fee to the Union.

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ACTION ITEM: Claim your opt-in or opt-out status with the union by completing this form. 

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