WOODLAND HILLS, Calif., March 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- This afternoon, MPTF (Motion Picture and Television Fund) and the union representing certain of its employees, SEIU-UHW, jointly announced a 60-day cooling-off period during which time the two organizations will continue to negotiate in good faith toward a collective bargaining agreement. The announcement was made by Bob Beitcher, MPTF CEO, and Dave Regan, President of SEIU-UHW.

"I'm pleased we were able to reach this time out," said Bob Beitcher, MPTF CEO. "After speaking at length with Dave, I feel more optimistic that the two sides can figure a way to reach a mutually satisfactory conclusion," Beitcher continued.

"I am confident that we can reach an agreement that will continue to make MPTF a great place to receive and deliver care," Regan said.

SEIU-UHW has rescinded its intent to strike at MPTF for 3 days starting the evening of Monday, March 18th. Both parties have also agreed to withdraw their Unfair Labor Practice claims at this time. SEIU-UHW has also chosen to withdraw its bargaining proposal regarding Nurse Staffing levels.

SOURCE MPTF