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Protecting Yourself: Your Weingarten Rights as a Mercer County Educator

The Mercer County Education Association (MCEA) is committed to protecting your rights as an educator. One crucial right you have is known as Weingarten Rights.

These rights come from a landmark Supreme Court case and entitle you to union representation during investigatory interviews with your employer.

What are Weingarten Rights?

Simply put, if you believe an interview with your supervisor could lead to discipline or negatively affect your job, you have the right to request a union representative to be present.

When to Use Your Weingarten Rights

Here are some signs that an interview might be investigatory:

• You're called into a meeting to discuss a student complaint, an alleged policy violation, or a performance issue.

• Your supervisor asks questions about your conduct or a specific incident.

• You feel pressured or uncomfortable during the meeting.

How to Use Your Weingarten Rights

If you believe your Weingarten Rights apply, politely but firmly state that you would like a union representative to be present. Your supervisor cannot deny your request, but they can:

• Grant your request and delay the interview until a representative arrives.

• End the interview immediately.

• Give you the choice of proceeding without representation or ending the interview.

Why are Weingarten Rights Important?

Having a union representative during an interview protects your rights in several ways:

• They can ensure your statements are accurate and documented.

• They can advise you on how to respond to questions appropriately.

• They can advocate for your best interests and ensure proper procedures are followed.

Learn More About Weingarten Rights

For a more detailed explanation of your Weingarten Rights, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) offers resources for you to review: link to NLRB Weingarten Rights.

The MCEA is Here for You

If you have any questions about Weingarten Rights or need representation during an interview, don't hesitate to contact the MCEA. We are here to support you and ensure your rights are protected.

Need Help? Our Member Advocacy Team is Here for You

Our Help Center is open every school day from 8 AM to 5 PM to assist you. Call us toll-free at 1-866-568-WVEA (9832). Our experienced Member Advocacy Specialists are ready to address your questions, whether they're legal or related to other workplace issues.

Our specialists have in-depth knowledge and experience in matters concerning your rights and responsibilities as a school employee. If your question requires legal expertise, they can connect you directly with our attorneys.

To submit a question online, please click here.

Please note: This service is exclusively for MCEA members.

Mercer County Education Association Members and all fellow Educators:

It’s Time to Stand Against PEIA Premium and Deductible Increases Again

As educators, we dedicate our lives to shaping the future. Now, we’re facing significant financial strain with the proposed PEIA (Public Employees Insurance Agency) plan changes for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26).

The PEIA Finance Board proposes a $31.50 monthly premium increase for state employees. While it may seem small, it adds up, especially when combined with the deductible and out-of-pocket maximum increases—particularly a $990 increase for Plan C. This is a major hit for many of us, and the impacts extend to non-Medicare retirees who will also feel the squeeze.

Additionally, Prescription deductibles are set to double, and a new spousal surcharge from SB268 will make covering family members more expensive. Substantial increases will occur in inpatient/outpatient services and therapy copays under Plans A and B.

These rising costs are unsustainable at a time when educator wages are stagnant. We can’t afford to remain silent while our healthcare costs soar.

What We Can Do:

- Speak Out: Contact the PEIA Finance Board and our local elected representatives. Let them know how these changes will affect your finances and healthcare.

- Rally Colleagues: Talk to coworkers and present a united front. Our collective voice is stronger together.

-Letter-Writing Campaigns: To express your concerns, write letters to local newspapers, elected officials, and the PEIA Finance Board.

-Social Media Advocacy: Use social media platforms to raise awareness, share information, and mobilize support.

-Support Candidate Endorsements: Back candidates who have publicly expressed support for education, employee rights, and our healthcare benefits.

-Get Involved in Local Politics: Run for office or volunteer for campaigns that prioritize education, employee rights, and healthcare affordability.

These changes will strain educators, affecting our personal lives and our ability to serve students. Let’s work together to ensure these proposals don’t become a reality. Now is the time to act. Let’s stand together and protect our healthcare, our future, and our role in shaping the next generation of West Virginians.