More FAQ’s
How many times do I need to sign and send an authorization card?
The cards are good for one year. Therefore, you only need to send one card.
I don’t know my employee number. Do I need to put it on the card?
If you know the number please put it on the card. However, if you don’t know the number please leave it blank. The National Mediation Board likes to have the number, but it is not a requirement.
I did not receive a packet in the mail. Why?
If you did not receive a packet we probably do not have your correct address. To keep you fully informed about your organizing campaign we need your home and e-mail addresses. Please send your info to ContactUs@Rotorunion.org
Much of the emphasis is on pilot issues. However, I am a mechanic or medical staff. If we vote in favor of union representation will my issues be addressed?
Yes, we are well aware that working conditions and issues will be different, depending on the job and location. When you vote yes for Union representation you will be surveyed and all issues will be addressed before negotiations commence.
During the election, I may be on military duty and away from home. Will I be able to vote?
Yes, the National Mediation Board (NMB) does allow workers who are on military duty to vote. They will work with you to make sure that you receive your ballot instructions.
Will any of my Union dues go to the Democratic Party or other entities I may not believe in?
No, the OPEIU does have a PAC. However, all contributions are strictly voluntary. It is illegal for dues money to be contributed towards political causes. OPEIU contributions go towards defending working family issues regardless of party affiliation.
Can I discuss Union activity at my base?
Yes, the law states that you can engage in Union activity during non-work times and non-work areas. However, it is also permissible to discuss union issues in an atmosphere where you typically would talk about other non-work-related things, such as in the break room, as long as you do not disrupt any work-related activity.
Will the grievance procedure protect employees who may deserve to be disciplined and/or fired for violating company policy?
No, the grievance procedure is fair for both parties. It requires the Company and the Union to provide proof and evidence for all alleged infractions. If the grievance is not settled at the early stage of the procedure it can be referred to a System Board of Adjustment. The System Board of Adjustment phase of the grievance procedure allows for a management employee and a member of the Union to hear the issues and make a final decision regarding the grievance. However, if the System Board of Adjustment ends in a deadlock the Union can refer the grievance to a neutral unbiased third party (arbitrator) for a decision. The arbitrator’s decision is final and binding.
How is the grievance procedure negotiated under the Railway Labor Act?
Under the Railway Labor Act the grievance procedure is automatically implemented in all Union contracts and is not negotiable.
When do we start paying dues?
- No one pays any dues until after we negotiate, vote on, and approve our own union contract.
- We wouldn’t approve a contract that didn’t make improvements and more than pay for our dues.
- There is no initiation fee for current employees
Who runs our Local Union?
A union is a non-profit employee organization that runs completely by and for its members. A Union is not some outside entity that will control your destiny. When you organize into a Local, you will elect your own leaders from fellow employees, you will vote on the contract that your negotiating team has bargained (with help from those of us who have experience in bargaining) and you will have a voice in all aspects of the Union. We, in the International, are here to help assist your elected leaders in all phases from organizing to bargaining and protecting your rights.