Important Information about Becoming a Union
Store
We hope the following helps
answer any questions you have regarding union representation. If you
have further questions, contact our Organizing Director, Gary Lyle,
at 253-589-0367, or
1-800-562-3645 outside of Pierce County, Washington.
What are the benefits of union
representation?
Local 367 represents
approximately 7,200 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 7,200
members to force the employer to improve their proposals.
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.
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.
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. The union reimburses negotiating committee
members for lost work time – this ensures that everyone has an equal
opportunity to participate.
Local 367 represents approximately
7,200 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.
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 $25.00 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 7,200 Local 367 union employees already know – the
benefits of union representation far outweigh the cost of dues.
Why this Union?
United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 367 is a diverse
union, representing approximately 7,200 workers in five counties. We
have considerable experience in your field.
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.
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.
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. |
