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Important Information about
Becoming a Union Workplace
We hope the following helps answer any questions you
have regarding union representation. Click on a question to view the
answer. If you have further questions, contact UFCW Local 367
at 253-589-0367, or 1-800-562-3645 outside of Pierce County, Washington.
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What are the benefits of union
representation? |
Local 367 represents approximately 7,500 employees. Together, our
members have the strength to make sure they have a contract that spells
out their pay, benefits, and working conditions in black and white.
During negotiations, employees who have been selected by their
co-workers sit at the bargaining table and represent employees’
concerns. These co-workers get to ask the employer questions regarding
proposed changes to employee wage scales, health benefits, and working
conditions. Then all our members get to vote on whether they want to
accept the proposed changes. If they choose not to accept the changes,
they have the strength and resources of Local 367's 7,500 members to
force the employer to improve their proposals.
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How do we become Union? |
A majority of
your co-workers must sign union authorization cards. Signing a card
authorizes the Union to represent you for the purpose of collective
bargaining. The cards will be used to obtain a secret ballot election.
Signing a card does not mean you’re conveying a "power of attorney," and
it does not sign away any of your rights. Management will not know who
did or did not sign a card.
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Are there risks in supporting the union? |
While organizing a union, you have specific legal rights and protections
under the National Labor Relations Act. It is illegal for management to
threaten, harass, or discriminate against anyone because of union
activity. Management can’t even legally question employees about whether
they support the union. It is up to you to decide whether or not to make
your support public.
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Who decides what’s proposed for your contract? |
The employees decide. First, you fill out bargaining surveys, meet
with a Union staff negotiator to discuss the contract and decide what
you want to propose. Next, you elect a negotiating committee of your
co-workers to represent you in bargaining alongside the Union staff
negotiator. Then, your committee meets with management to bargain the
contract.
Local 367 represents approximately 7,500 workers, covered by over 100
contracts. Each one is unique to the place of business it covers. The
union negotiates the whole agreement – wages, pensions, medical
benefits, and everything else – to best fit the needs of the members who
work under it. The result is a written contract that meets your needs
and guarantees improvements to your wages, benefits, and working
conditions.
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Is there an initiation fee? How much are dues? |
There is a one-time initiation fee for new employees. Initiation
fees are based on job classification and hours worked. New members can
receive a $25 credit toward their initiation fee by attending a new
member meeting. Local 367 members determine their dues structure and
vote on it. Dues are based on wage rates and hours worked. No one pays
any dues until you negotiate, review, and vote for your contract. Before
paying any dues, you’ll see the results, and you’ll find what 7,500
Local 367 union employees already know – the benefits of union
representation far outweigh the cost of dues.
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Why this Union? |
United Food and
Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 367 is a diverse union, representing
approximately 7,500 workers in six counties. We have considerable
experience in your field.
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What about strikes? Can the Union force me out on a strike? |
Union members have the legal right to strike.
Sometimes, employer demands or unfair treatment leave no alternative.
But strikes are rare – according to U.S. Government figures, over 98% of
all contracts in the U.S. are settled without a strike. Local 367's
bylaws stipulate that strikes occur when a two-thirds majority votes to
strike. In any case, you are the only ones who can vote on your contract
or a strike.
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Will being in a Union provide me with a stronger
voice at work? |
Yes. Local 367's contracts protect workers from unfair
management decisions to reduce hours, institute layoffs, or
impose discipline without just cause. These contracts
mandate that committees of employees and managers meet to
address issues that arise in stores. When you have a union,
you will be able to negotiate your wages, benefits, and
working conditions as equals with management. It makes sense
that you can accomplish much more together than you can
separately.
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What is the main benefit of having a Union? |
With a union, you stand together with your co-workers to negotiate
over the issues that affect your careers. Together, your voices are
strong enough to win a written contract that guarantees and improves
your wages, benefits, and working conditions. You and co-workers are the
union, and together, you have the strength to make a difference in your
work environment. With the union, you can win the respect you deserve.
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