The MLS Players Association (formerly MLS Players Union)[2] was formed in April 2003 after the conclusion of Fraser v. Major League Soccer. The founding members of the MLSPA Executive Board included Landon Donovan, Tim Howard, Chris Klein, Alexi Lalas, and Ben Olsen. Prior to the CBA, players received no form of retirement benefits, and many players lacked basic health insurance.[citation needed] On December 14, 2017, the MLS Players Union changed its name to the MLS Players Association and launched a full re-branding campaign.[3]
Collective bargaining agreements
First CBA (2005)
After negotiating with MLS in 2003 and 2004, on December 1, 2004, the Players Association and MLS signed the first-ever collective bargaining agreement (CBA) covering MLS players for the 2005 season to the 2009 season inclusively. Among other things, the CBA increased minimum salaries, established a 401(k) plan with guaranteed contributions from MLS, and guaranteed[3] that all players and their families will be provided with 100% fully paid health insurance benefits. In addition, the CBA provides for an independent arbitrator to hear disputes between MLS and the players. MLS and the Players Association also negotiated a substance abuse policy covering all players in the league, as well as a Group License Agreement.
2010 CBA
The collective bargaining agreement ran through the 2009 season and in January 2010 the Major League Soccer players threatened to go on strike.[4][5] The union had voted in favor of a strike if a new deal was not reached before the beginning of the season.[6] The labor agreement expired on January 31, 2010. Progress had been reported in negotiations with the Players Association, with the major issues reportedly player transfer and guaranteed contracts. The Players Association had accused MLS of failing to abide by international regulations set down by governing body FIFA, but the league denied the charge.[citation needed] FIFA said they would not intervene in a labor dispute.[7] The MLSPA advised players to report to camp as planned. Reports had been conflicting about the actual possibility of a work stoppage. Both sides agreed to extend talks to February 12, and then extended then again to February 25, 2010.
On March 20, 2010, MLS and MLSPA signed a new 5-year agreement commencing with the 2010 season and continuing through January 31, 2015.[8]
2015 CBA
On March 4, 2015, the MLS and MLSPA agree to terms on a third Collective Bargaining Agreement for a duration of 5 years.[3]
New restricted free agency.
New free agency rules: Players need to be 28 years old and with at least 8 years of MLS experience.
Number of players with guaranteed contracts increases.
2020 CBA
On February 6, 2020, a new 5 year Collective Bargaining Agreement was struck between the MLS and the MLSPA.[9]
1.9 billion investment in new deal.
Expanded free agency rules: Players need to be 24 years old and with at least 5 years of MLS experience.
Annual increase in mandatory charter flight for the players.
