Common use of Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund Clause in Contracts

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three thousand five hundred ($3,500) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, seminar workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 450,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three thousand five hundred ($3,5003,000) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 450,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 450,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 450,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 550,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three thousand five hundred ($3,5003,000) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 550,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 550,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 550,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies are Employer is committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreementemployees. The Employer will continue, through the administration establish a tuition reimbursement fund for use by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Unionemployees. The fund will make available two hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($750,000 250,000) in each fiscal year under this Agreement for non-optional/required fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations Each employee has a cap of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three four thousand five hundred dollars ($3,5004,500) dollarsin any one fiscal year. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year Reimbursement shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursementone hundred percent (100%). Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund shall be discussed at the State Professional State-Wide Labor/Management Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensurecertification. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 governed by OBM Expenses and Travel of this Agreementreimbursement policies. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops seminars and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency exists agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by this Article. Upon exhaustion of this fund, employees may then apply for the Employeragency funds. Requests to attend seminarsRegardless of funding source, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement all funds received shall not be unreasonably delayed by count toward the agenciespersonal cap. The Each Employing Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution and retention of that type of material. HoweverThe Employer will disburse to SCOPE thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) in fiscal year 2019, and then sixty thousand dollars ($60,000) in each fiscal year after 2019 from this fund for the purpose of providing an education program and professional development to employees covered by this collective bargaining agreement. This disbursement shall not increase the $250,000 allotment. In fiscal years 2019, 2020 and 2021, the Agency candisbursement shall be made by January 1. Any employees who are scheduled to work may request release time to attend the professional development day, subject to operational need. Employees will not receive any additional compensation for attending the professional development day. Upon request, SCOPE shall provide to the Employer a list of all employees who attended the professional development day. The information shall be responsible provided to the Employer within 30 days of the request, but in no case later than November 30 of the calendar year in which the professional development day occurred. Background checks for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others license renewals for DRC employees, including finger print and record check verification, may be done at DRC reception centers at no cost to forward DRC employees. Such checks must be done on off duty time. All other expenses are to be borne by the informationemployee.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies aAgencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX DAS and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 400,000 $450,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three two thousand five hundred ($3,5002,500) dollars three thousand ($3,000) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 450,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 450,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 450,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, exists Agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information. The Department of Mental Health will reimburse bargaining unit members for continuing education/, seminars, workshops, and conferences of benefit to both the employees and to the Agency to a maximum of $50,000 in each fiscal year of the Agreement.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies Employer agencies are is committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreementmembers employees. The Employer will continue, through the administration establish a tuition reimbursement fund for use by the Department members of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Unionthis bargaining unit employees. The fund will make available three hundred thousand dollars ($750,000 300,000) in fiscal year 2007, two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) in fiscal years 2008 and 2009 in each fiscal year under this Agreement for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to Employees Each employee will have has a personal cap of seven thousand five hundred dollars ($7,500) eight thousand dollars ($8,000) for the limitations life duration of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed contract Agreement and a cap of three thousand five hundred dollars ($3,500) dollarsin any one fiscal year. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year Reimbursement shall be carried over at one hundred percent (100%). Background checks for license renewals for DRC employees, including finger print and added record check verification, may be done at DRC reception centers at no cost to DRC employees. Such checks must be done on off duty time. All other expenses are to be borne by the $750,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000employee. The parties shall discuss any anyAny changes in the fund shall be discussed at the State Professional State- Wide Labor/Management Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensurecertification. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 governed by OBM Expenses and Travel of this Agreementreimbursement policies. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops seminars and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency exists agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by this Article. Upon exhaustion of this fund, employees may then apply for the Employeragency funds. Requests to attend seminarsRegardless of funding source, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement all funds received shall not be unreasonably delayed by count toward the agenciespersonal cap. The Each Employing agency Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution and retention of that type of material. However, the Agency agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information. Explanation: The tuition fund remains at $200,000 per fiscal year for the duration of the Agreement, and the cap for each employee has been raised from $7,500 for the duration of the Agreement to $8,000. Employees must exhaust the fund administered by the Department of Administrative Services before applying for agency funds, if any. Regardless of the funding source, no employee shall receive more than $3,500 in a fiscal year. Finally, this contract establishes that background checks for DRC employees may be done at DRC facilities free of charge. Instructions: Only DRC employees only should be given free background checks at DRC facilities. The checks must be done on their own time.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX DAS and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 5750,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three thousand five hundred ($3,5003,0500) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 5750,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 5750,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 5750,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies are Employer is committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreementemployees. The Employer will continue, through the administration establish a tuition reimbursement fund for use by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Unionemployees. The fund will make available two hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($750,000 25000,000) in each fiscal year under this Agreement for non-optional/required fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations Each employee has a cap of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed four three thousand five hundred dollars ($3,50043,500) dollarsin any one fiscal year. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year Reimbursement shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursementone hundred percent (100%). Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund shall be discussed at the State Professional State-Wide Labor/Management Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensurecertification. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 governed by OBM Expenses and Travel of this Agreementreimbursement policies. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops seminars and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency exists agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by this Article. Upon exhaustion of this fund, employees may then apply for the Employeragency funds. Requests to attend seminarsRegardless of funding source, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement all funds received shall not be unreasonably delayed by count toward the agenciespersonal cap. The Each Employing Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution and retention of that type of material. HoweverThe Employer will disburse to SCOPE thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) in fiscal year 2019, and then sixty thousand dollars ($60,000) in each fiscal year after 2019 from this fund for the purpose of providing an education program and professional development to employees covered by this collective bargaining agreement. This disbursement shall not increase the $2500,000 allotment. The disbursement shall be made as soon as feasible for fiscal year 2016. In fiscal years 20179, 2020 and 202118, the Agency candisbursement shall be made by January 1. Any employees who are scheduled to work may request release time to attend the professional development day, subject to operational need. Employees will not receive any additional compensation for attending the profe ssional development day. Upon request, SCOPE shall provide to the Employer a list of all employees who attended the professional development day. The information shall be responsible provided to the Employer within 30 days of the request, but in no case later than November 30 of the calendar year in which the professional development day occurred. Background checks for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others license renewals for DRC employees, including finger print and record check verification, may be done at DRC reception centers at no cost to forward DRC employees. Such checks must be done on off duty time. All other expenses are to be borne by the informationemployee.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies are Employer is committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreementemployees. The Employer will continue, through the administration establish a tuition reimbursement fund for use by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Unionemployees. The fund will make available two hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($750,000 250,000) in each fiscal year under this Agreement for non-optional/required fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations Each employee has a cap of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three four thousand five hundred dollars ($3,5004,500) dollarsin any one fiscal year. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year Reimbursement shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursementone hundred percent (100%). Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund shall be discussed at the State Professional State- Wide Labor/Management Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensurecertification. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 governed by OBM Expenses and Travel of this Agreementreimbursement policies. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops seminars and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency exists agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by this Article. Upon exhaustion of this fund, employees may then apply for the Employeragency funds. Requests to attend seminarsRegardless of funding source, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement all funds received shall not be unreasonably delayed by count toward the agenciespersonal cap. The Each Employing Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution and retention of that type of material. HoweverThe Employer will disburse to SCOPE thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) in fiscal year 2019, and then sixty thousand dollars ($60,000) in each fiscal year after 2019 from this fund for the purpose of providing an education program and professional development to employees covered by this collective bargaining agreement. This disbursement shall not increase the $250,000 allotment. In fiscal years 2019, 2020 and 2021, the Agency candisbursement shall be made by January 1. Any employees who are scheduled to work may request release time to attend the professional development day, subject to operational need. Employees will not receive any additional compensation for attending the professional development day. Upon request, SCOPE shall provide to the Employer a list of all employees who attended the professional development day. The information shall be responsible provided to the Employer within 30 days of the request, but in no case later than November 30 of the calendar year in which the professional development day occurred. Background checks for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others license renewals for DRC employees, including finger print and record check verification, may be done at DRC reception centers at no cost to forward DRC employees. Such checks must be done on off duty time. All other expenses are to be borne by the informationemployee.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies agencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS)Services, the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops seminar and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 250,000 in each fiscal year years 1998, 1999 and 2000 for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three one thousand five ($1,000) dollars for tuition reimbursement and nine hundred ($3,500900) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options dollars for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000workshops or conferences. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops seminars and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency exists agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agencyagency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, seminar and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information. The Department of Mental Health will reimburse bargaining unit members for continuing education/seminars of benefit to both the employees and to the agency to a maximum of $50,000 in each fiscal year of the Agreement. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably denied.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies aAgencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 400,000 $450,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three two thousand five hundred ($3,5002,500) dollars three thousand ($3,000) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 450,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 450,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 450,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, exists Agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information. The Department of Mental Health will reimburse bargaining unit members for continuing education/, seminars, workshops, and conferences of benefit to both the employees and to the Agency to a maximum of $50,000 in each fiscal year of the Agreement. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably denied.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, seminar workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX DAS and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 450,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three thousand five hundred ($3,5003,000) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 450,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 450,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 450,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information. Explanation: The 1199 fund and the Mental Health specific fund were combined to create one working fund for all members of 1199. The total fund is $450,000 each fiscal year. The individual amount was increased from $2,500 to $3,000. Any unused portion of the fund will be carried over into the next fiscal year’s fund. The Union will be provided quarterly reports containing the balance of the fund. Should the fund go below $100,000, the Union will be put on notice.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX DAS and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 550,000$450,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three thousand five hundred ($3,5003,000) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 450,000550,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 450,000550,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 450,000550,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies agencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS)Services, the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops seminar and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 400,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three one thousand five hundred ($3,5001,500) dollars for tuition reimbursement and one thousand ($1000) dollars for seminars, workshops or conferences two thousand five hundred ($2,500) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems the system with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops seminars and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency exists agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agencyagency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, seminar and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies agencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS)Services, the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops seminar and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 400,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three two thousand five hundred ($3,5002,500) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems the system with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops seminars and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency exists agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agencyagency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, seminar and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information. The Department of Mental Health will reimburse bargaining unit members for continuing education/seminars of benefit to both the employees and to the agency to a maximum of $50,000 in each fiscal year of the Agreement. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably denied.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX DAS and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three thousand five hundred ($3,500) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information.

Tuition Reimbursement, Seminars and Conferences Fund. The Employer/Agencies agencies are committed to the upgrading and maintenance of the educational and skill levels of bargaining unit members. Where possible, the agencies will continue the practice of tuition reimbursement in effect on the date of the ratification of this Agreement. The Employer will continue, through the administration by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS)Services, the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshops seminar and conference fund. Agencies and employees shall follow the program guidelines as outlined by XXX and the Union. The fund will make available $750,000 400,000 in each fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Subject to the limitations of the fund, each employee shall be eligible for an amount not to exceed three one thousand five hundred ($3,5001,500) dollars for tuition reimbursement and one thousand ($1000) dollars for seminars, workshops or conferences two thousand five hundred ($2,500) dollars. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, the Employer will explore options for implementing a voucher system for seminars and conferences. The Employer will also explore options for the electronic submission and approval of reimbursement requests. If implementation is feasible, the Employer will discuss these systems the system with the Union, prior to implementation, at the Statewide Agency Professional Committee. During the term of this collective bargaining agreement, any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the fiscal year shall be carried over and added to the $750,000 available in the next fiscal year for fees and expenses for attendance at seminars, workshops, conferences and for tuition reimbursement. Any unused and available portion of the $750,000 that remains at the end of the third year of the collective bargaining agreement shall be a topic for discussion for future negotiations. The Employer will provide quarterly reports to the Union that outline the balance of the tuition reimbursement, seminar and conference fund. Additionally, the Employer will put the Union on notice if, and when, the balance drops below $100,000. The parties shall discuss any changes in the fund at the State Professional Committee. These discussions shall include the usage of the fund to pay for necessary Continuing Education Units and Continuing Education Units leading to the renewal of certification and licensure. Reimbursement for travel, food and lodging shall be consistent with Article 21 Travel of this Agreement. Agencies may allocate additional funds within their Agency agency for the purpose of providing reimbursement to their employees for approved attendance at seminars, workshops seminars and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement. In agencies where such a fund exists, Agency exists agency employees must apply first for seminars, workshops and conferences and tuition reimbursement from that Agencyagency. When those funds are no longer available or do not exist, the employees may apply for reimbursement from the tuition reimbursement, seminar, workshop, seminar and conference fund established by the Employer. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably delayed by the agencies. The Agency agency shall attempt to share information on seminars, workshops and conferences with interested employees, consistent with the local procedure for distribution of that type of material. However, the Agency agency cannot be responsible for removal of notices from bulletin boards or failure of others to forward the information. The Department of Mental Health will reimburse bargaining unit members for continuing education/seminars of benefit to both the employees and to the agency to a maximum of $50,000 in each fiscal year of the Agreement. Requests to attend seminars, workshops and conferences, or for tuition reimbursement shall not be unreasonably denied.