Supreme Court Strikes At Federal Experts

Supreme Court Strikes At Federal Experts

Supreme Court Strikes At Federal Experts

Supreme Court Strikes At Federal Experts

IAM141.org

WASHINGTON – On June 28, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark decision that will drastically alter the government’s ability to enforce workplace safety, aviation standards, and commercial flight operations. This ruling, which ends the Chevron deference doctrine, hamstrings the efforts of agencies like OSHA, the FAA, and others to carry out their regulatory duties.

Chevron deference, established by a 1984 Supreme Court case, allowed courts to defer to federal agencies’ interpretations of ambiguous laws. This was crucial because judges and juries typically do not possess the same level of expertise as the specialists within these agencies. The doctrine enabled experts in various fields to use their knowledge to guide federal agencies and make binding decisions, leading to more informed and quicker regulatory outcomes. Removing Chevron deference means judges will now make binding decisions on subjects they may know very little about, which could lead to inconsistent and prolonged rulings.

For example, instead of deferring to OSHA’s requirements, a judge and jury might now decide if electric tugs are parked too close to a fire exit or if there are enough first aid kits. Similarly, decisions on whether to add or remove fire extinguishers or mandate CPR training could now be subject to court rulings. This could drag out many decisions for years and result in varied outcomes as different juries second-guess one another. If courts in different states reach conflicting rulings, it could create a fragmented regulatory environment, leading to significant uncertainty and challenges for businesses operating across state lines.

Virtually no one supports the end of regulatory oversight except massive corporations. Voters who have grown weary of perceived “over-regulation” of business will not see fewer regulations or rules governing workplace law in the United States. The same number of rules and regulations will still exist. The change is that individuals will need to hire lawyers and take corporations to court if they feel their workplace is unsafe or if workers are fired unfairly. They will no longer be able to rely on OSHA or the EEOC.

The tens of thousands of speedy, customized decisions that federal agencies make each year would be moved to the court system, swamping the non-specialized courts with longer and longer backlogs of cases. This is how regulations were implemented prior to Chevron. Chevron helped calm this chaos and preserved regular court structures for other types of cases.

What Was the Chevron Deference?

Chevron deference was a 40-year-old Supreme Court ruling that allowed government agencies to prioritize public safety and reasonable policy. On June 28, this ruling was overturned by a vote of 6-3.

Many may have never heard of Chevron deference. You might be wondering, “If I don’t even know what it is, why is its overturn such a big deal?”

In short, Chevron deference gave government agencies the liberty to interpret parts of laws passed by Congress that were unclear or ambiguous. It served as a foundation for many bureaucratic decisions that most of us took for granted. While it may not have been on our radars before due to the consistent nature of its application, we will definitely feel the impact of that consistency being upended. Some believe this change will be good, and some believe it will be bad, but experts agree that whatever happens, change will come.

The Impact of The SCOTUS Ruling

This ruling is predicted to impact bureaucratic agencies’ implementation of federal laws significantly. In the past, agencies consulted their own field experts when deciding how to carry out a vague congressional instruction.

However, now that Chevron deference has been overturned, a judge will decide how these laws will be carried out. While the agency will still be able to argue their expert opinions in court, they won’t have the final say on how these laws are implemented. Legal experts predict a large increase in the number of cases over regulatory policy, as this ruling will likely encourage corporations to dispute agency decisions.

The Supreme Court justices stated that the ruling will only affect future policy changes, so anything enacted before the ruling will remain unchanged. This gives companies some time to adjust their future plans to this change, as most organizations won’t feel the effects until a new policy is introduced.

Impact on OSHA

As a federal agency, OSHA is anticipated to be affected by this ruling in several ways. Passing any OSHA standard will take even longer than it already does (which is saying something).

The agency will want to avoid being taken to court and may spend more time and resources on avoiding expensive cases rather than carrying out policy in a timely manner. There is also a chance that these standards will be less effective, as congress members may intentionally write more specific laws to avoid court involvement in the legislation process.

These congress members are almost certainly not experts in the relevant fields. They will have to make their own assumptions on complex topics that they would have left to industry professionals in the past. Overall, we may see a decrease in federal workplace protections, which could impact employee safety and industry worker dynamics.

 

How These Changes Might Affect Your Workplace

If federal legal interpretations are taken out of OSHA’s hands, there may be unclear direction, leading to an increase in on-the-job employee injuries.

This does not mean, “Cancel your safety programs because nobody cares anymore.” Quite the opposite. Workers will still seek out workplaces that demonstrate they value employee safety. So, stay ahead of the curve and zero in on your hazard prevention plans.

Labor and Employment Attorneys Fisher Phillips said of the ruling, “Don’t forget about state and local laws. Even if a court interprets a federal statute in a way that helps smooth a path for you, there is no guarantee that state laws will follow suit. In fact, you may see some state lawmakers and regulators push for increased regulation given the softening that will soon exist at the federal level.”

Impact on Labor Unions and Workplace Safety

The end of Chevron deference could have major implications for labor unions and workplace safety regulations. Federal agencies like the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) often create rules that affect workers and employers. Without Chevron deference, these agencies may find it harder to implement new rules and enforce existing ones.

For labor unions, this change could mean a more challenging environment for advocating for workers’ rights. Agencies like the NLRB may face increased scrutiny when making decisions, potentially leading to fewer favorable rulings for unions. Similarly, OSHA’s efforts to ensure workplace safety could be hampered, as their regulations may be more frequently challenged in court.

Impact on Transportation

The transportation sector could also see substantial changes. The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are responsible for creating and enforcing many rules that ensure the safety and efficiency of the transportation system. With the end of Chevron deference, these agencies might struggle to defend their regulations in court.

For instance, new rules aimed at improving consumer protection, like fare transparency and passenger rights, could face more legal challenges. This shift may slow down the implementation of new safety standards in areas such as commercial spaceflight, maritime operations, and vehicle safety.

In short, the Supreme Court’s decision to end Chevron deference marks a major shift in how federal regulations are created and enforced. For labor unions, workplace safety, and transportation, this change could lead to more legal challenges and slower implementation of new rules, impacting the effectiveness of these critical protections.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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Supreme Court Strikes At Federal Experts

18 July 2024

WASHINGTON – On June 28, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark decision that will drastically alter the government’s ability to enforce workplace safety, aviation standards, and commercial flight operations. This ruling, which ends the Chevron deference doctrine, hamstrings the efforts of agencies like OSHA, the FAA, and others to carry out their regulatory duties.

Chevron deference, established by a 1984 Supreme Court case, allowed courts to defer to federal agencies’ interpretations of ambiguous laws. This was crucial because judges and juries typically do not possess the same level of expertise as the specialists within these agencies. The doctrine enabled experts in various fields to use their knowledge to guide federal agencies and make binding decisions, leading to more informed and quicker regulatory outcomes. Removing Chevron deference means judges will now make binding decisions on subjects they may know very little about, which could lead to inconsistent and prolonged rulings.

For example, instead of deferring to OSHA’s requirements, a judge and jury might now decide if electric tugs are parked too close to a fire exit or if there are enough first aid kits. Similarly, decisions on whether to add or remove fire extinguishers or mandate CPR training could now be subject to court rulings. This could drag out many decisions for years and result in varied outcomes as different juries second-guess one another. If courts in different states reach conflicting rulings, it could create a fragmented regulatory environment, leading to significant uncertainty and challenges for businesses operating across state lines.

Virtually no one supports the end of regulatory oversight except massive corporations. Voters who have grown weary of perceived “over-regulation” of business will not see fewer regulations or rules governing workplace law in the United States. The same number of rules and regulations will still exist. The change is that individuals will need to hire lawyers and take corporations to court if they feel their workplace is unsafe or if workers are fired unfairly. They will no longer be able to rely on OSHA or the EEOC.

The tens of thousands of speedy, customized decisions that federal agencies make each year would be moved to the court system, swamping the non-specialized courts with longer and longer backlogs of cases. This is how regulations were implemented prior to Chevron. Chevron helped calm this chaos and preserved regular court structures for other types of cases.

What Was the Chevron Deference?

Chevron deference was a 40-year-old Supreme Court ruling that allowed government agencies to prioritize public safety and reasonable policy. On June 28, this ruling was overturned by a vote of 6-3.

Many may have never heard of Chevron deference. You might be wondering, “If I don’t even know what it is, why is its overturn such a big deal?”

In short, Chevron deference gave government agencies the liberty to interpret parts of laws passed by Congress that were unclear or ambiguous. It served as a foundation for many bureaucratic decisions that most of us took for granted. While it may not have been on our radars before due to the consistent nature of its application, we will definitely feel the impact of that consistency being upended. Some believe this change will be good, and some believe it will be bad, but experts agree that whatever happens, change will come.

The Impact of The SCOTUS Ruling

This ruling is predicted to impact bureaucratic agencies’ implementation of federal laws significantly. In the past, agencies consulted their own field experts when deciding how to carry out a vague congressional instruction.

However, now that Chevron deference has been overturned, a judge will decide how these laws will be carried out. While the agency will still be able to argue their expert opinions in court, they won’t have the final say on how these laws are implemented. Legal experts predict a large increase in the number of cases over regulatory policy, as this ruling will likely encourage corporations to dispute agency decisions.

The Supreme Court justices stated that the ruling will only affect future policy changes, so anything enacted before the ruling will remain unchanged. This gives companies some time to adjust their future plans to this change, as most organizations won’t feel the effects until a new policy is introduced.

Impact on OSHA

As a federal agency, OSHA is anticipated to be affected by this ruling in several ways. Passing any OSHA standard will take even longer than it already does (which is saying something).

The agency will want to avoid being taken to court and may spend more time and resources on avoiding expensive cases rather than carrying out policy in a timely manner. There is also a chance that these standards will be less effective, as congress members may intentionally write more specific laws to avoid court involvement in the legislation process.

These congress members are almost certainly not experts in the relevant fields. They will have to make their own assumptions on complex topics that they would have left to industry professionals in the past. Overall, we may see a decrease in federal workplace protections, which could impact employee safety and industry worker dynamics.

 

How These Changes Might Affect Your Workplace

If federal legal interpretations are taken out of OSHA’s hands, there may be unclear direction, leading to an increase in on-the-job employee injuries.

This does not mean, “Cancel your safety programs because nobody cares anymore.” Quite the opposite. Workers will still seek out workplaces that demonstrate they value employee safety. So, stay ahead of the curve and zero in on your hazard prevention plans.

Labor and Employment Attorneys Fisher Phillips said of the ruling, “Don’t forget about state and local laws. Even if a court interprets a federal statute in a way that helps smooth a path for you, there is no guarantee that state laws will follow suit. In fact, you may see some state lawmakers and regulators push for increased regulation given the softening that will soon exist at the federal level.”

Impact on Labor Unions and Workplace Safety

The end of Chevron deference could have major implications for labor unions and workplace safety regulations. Federal agencies like the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) often create rules that affect workers and employers. Without Chevron deference, these agencies may find it harder to implement new rules and enforce existing ones.

For labor unions, this change could mean a more challenging environment for advocating for workers’ rights. Agencies like the NLRB may face increased scrutiny when making decisions, potentially leading to fewer favorable rulings for unions. Similarly, OSHA’s efforts to ensure workplace safety could be hampered, as their regulations may be more frequently challenged in court.

Impact on Transportation

The transportation sector could also see substantial changes. The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are responsible for creating and enforcing many rules that ensure the safety and efficiency of the transportation system. With the end of Chevron deference, these agencies might struggle to defend their regulations in court.

For instance, new rules aimed at improving consumer protection, like fare transparency and passenger rights, could face more legal challenges. This shift may slow down the implementation of new safety standards in areas such as commercial spaceflight, maritime operations, and vehicle safety.

In short, the Supreme Court’s decision to end Chevron deference marks a major shift in how federal regulations are created and enforced. For labor unions, workplace safety, and transportation, this change could lead to more legal challenges and slower implementation of new rules, impacting the effectiveness of these critical protections.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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Emirates Hit with $1.8 Million Fine for JetBlue Code Share Flights

Emirates Hit with $1.8 Million Fine for JetBlue Code Share Flights

Emirates Hit with $1.8 Million Fine for JetBlue Code Share Flights

Emirates Hit with $1.8 Million Fine for JetBlue Code Share Flights

IAM141.org

WASHINGTON – The USDOT has fined Emirates Airlines $1.8 million for flying through prohibited airspace over Iraq at an unsafe altitude. The flights were part of a code share agreement with JetBlue Airways, breaching U.S. aviation safety rules designed to protect U.S.-based carriers.

A code share agreement allows one airline to market and sell seats on a flight operated by another airline, effectively sharing the flight’s operations and marketing efforts. Both airlines began codesharing in April 2021, intending to offer more travel options between the United States and destinations in Asia and Africa.

The fine was imposed after Emirates operated flights carrying JetBlue’s designator code in regions where the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had imposed flight prohibitions for U.S. operators. These violations occurred between December 2021 and August 2022, during which Emirates flew over Iraqi airspace that the FAA had restricted for safety reasons. The FAA’s restrictions over Iraq were due to heightened military activities and increased political tensions, which posed risks to civil aviation, including potential miscalculation or misidentification of aircraft.

“The U.S. Department of Transportation today fined Emirates $1.8 million for operating flights carrying JetBlue Airways’ designator code in regions in which a Federal Aviation Administration flight prohibition was in effect for U.S. operators,” said the DOT in its statement. “By operating these flights in this manner, Emirates violated the conditions of its authority to operate and engaged in passenger operations to and from the United States without the proper DOT authority.”

Between December 2021 and August 2022, Emirates operated 122 flights through Iraqi airspace below the U.S.-mandated minimum altitude of FL320. These flights were performed under JetBlue’s B6 flight designator. “By operating these flights in this manner, Emirates violated the conditions of its authority to operate,” the DOT stated.

The United Airlines Labor Coalition, including the Machinists Union, Transport Workers Union, Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), Association of Flight Attendants (AFA), and the Teamsters, also raised concerns regarding Emirates. They pointed to accounts of unfair labor practices and employee intimidation in the United Arab Emirates. In a letter, the coalition expressed their apprehension about the partnership between Emirates and U.S. airlines, highlighting the need for fair labor standards and respectful treatment of employees. The coalition’s statement reflects broader concerns within the aviation industry about labor relations and the impact of such partnerships on workers.

Responding to the ruling, Emirates said it planned to operate the 122 flights at or above FL320 but could not secure air traffic control (ATC) clearance for this flight level. The airline stated, “While these flights were operating, ATC did not give clearance to ascend to FL320, or had categorically instructed these flights to operate below FL320. Our pilots duly followed ATC instructions, a decision which is fully aligned with international aviation regulations.”

The DOT countered that Emirates “should have known” after the first few instances that local ATC might direct it to operate below FL320. “Emirates should and could have taken actions to avoid violating the condition of its codeshare statement of authorization but failed to do so,” the DOT said in its ruling.

The DOT stressed that the fine was for continuing to operate below FL320 and not for Emirates’ adherence to ATC instructions once in the air. After assessing all the evidence, the DOT concluded that enforcement action was warranted, particularly in light of the repeated violation.

“For the sake of the employees we represent, we sincerely hope for an improved climate, where cooperation and collaboration can exist and thrive,” said the union coalition leaders in a joint letter.

Emirates has agreed to the settlement, with $1.5 million payable within 60 days and the remaining $300,000 within one year.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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Emirates Hit with $1.8 Million Fine for JetBlue Code Share Flights

18 June 2024

WASHINGTON – The USDOT has fined Emirates Airlines $1.8 million for flying through prohibited airspace over Iraq at an unsafe altitude. The flights were part of a code share agreement with JetBlue Airways, breaching U.S. aviation safety rules designed to protect U.S.-based carriers.

A code share agreement allows one airline to market and sell seats on a flight operated by another airline, effectively sharing the flight’s operations and marketing efforts. Both airlines began codesharing in April 2021, intending to offer more travel options between the United States and destinations in Asia and Africa.

The fine was imposed after Emirates operated flights carrying JetBlue’s designator code in regions where the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had imposed flight prohibitions for U.S. operators. These violations occurred between December 2021 and August 2022, during which Emirates flew over Iraqi airspace that the FAA had restricted for safety reasons. The FAA’s restrictions over Iraq were due to heightened military activities and increased political tensions, which posed risks to civil aviation, including potential miscalculation or misidentification of aircraft.

“The U.S. Department of Transportation today fined Emirates $1.8 million for operating flights carrying JetBlue Airways’ designator code in regions in which a Federal Aviation Administration flight prohibition was in effect for U.S. operators,” said the DOT in its statement. “By operating these flights in this manner, Emirates violated the conditions of its authority to operate and engaged in passenger operations to and from the United States without the proper DOT authority.”

Between December 2021 and August 2022, Emirates operated 122 flights through Iraqi airspace below the U.S.-mandated minimum altitude of FL320. These flights were performed under JetBlue’s B6 flight designator. “By operating these flights in this manner, Emirates violated the conditions of its authority to operate,” the DOT stated.

The United Airlines Labor Coalition, including the Machinists Union, Transport Workers Union, Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), Association of Flight Attendants (AFA), and the Teamsters, also raised concerns regarding Emirates. They pointed to accounts of unfair labor practices and employee intimidation in the United Arab Emirates. In a letter, the coalition expressed their apprehension about the partnership between Emirates and U.S. airlines, highlighting the need for fair labor standards and respectful treatment of employees. The coalition’s statement reflects broader concerns within the aviation industry about labor relations and the impact of such partnerships on workers.

Responding to the ruling, Emirates said it planned to operate the 122 flights at or above FL320 but could not secure air traffic control (ATC) clearance for this flight level. The airline stated, “While these flights were operating, ATC did not give clearance to ascend to FL320, or had categorically instructed these flights to operate below FL320. Our pilots duly followed ATC instructions, a decision which is fully aligned with international aviation regulations.”

The DOT countered that Emirates “should have known” after the first few instances that local ATC might direct it to operate below FL320. “Emirates should and could have taken actions to avoid violating the condition of its codeshare statement of authorization but failed to do so,” the DOT said in its ruling.

The DOT stressed that the fine was for continuing to operate below FL320 and not for Emirates’ adherence to ATC instructions once in the air. After assessing all the evidence, the DOT concluded that enforcement action was warranted, particularly in light of the repeated violation.

“For the sake of the employees we represent, we sincerely hope for an improved climate, where cooperation and collaboration can exist and thrive,” said the union coalition leaders in a joint letter.

Emirates has agreed to the settlement, with $1.5 million payable within 60 days and the remaining $300,000 within one year.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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Machinists Union International President Brian Bryant Appointed to President Biden’s Export Council

Machinists Union International President Brian Bryant Appointed to President Biden’s Export Council

IAM Union International President Brian Bryant Appointed to President Biden’s Export Council

IAM Union International President Brian Bryant Appointed to President Biden’s Export Council

IAM141.org

WASHINGTON DC – Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), has been appointed by President Biden to serve on the President’s Export Council. This U.S. governmental organization is the principal national advisory committee on international trade, offering a forum for private-sector business and labor leaders, members of Congress, and other administration officials to discuss and resolve trade-related issues.

Bryant, a Maine native and shipbuilder at Bath Iron Works, will represent the voices of 600,000 active and retired IAM members across the aerospace, defense, airline, manufacturing, and other industries in White House trade discussions. He also serves as Vice Chair of the AFL-CIO’s Industrial Union Council, on the Executive Committee of the IndustriALL Global Union, and on the AFL-CIO’s Executive Council.

“Our nation’s trade policies directly affect the livelihoods of our members in so many critical industries,” said Bryant. “I’m extremely thankful to President Biden for nominating me to help ensure that workers have a prominent seat in every trade discussion that affects our jobs, supply chains, and national security.”

The President’s Export Council has recently renegotiated the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The council’s advocacy ensured that the agreement included stronger labor protections for American workers and enforcement mechanisms, leading to better working conditions and higher wages for workers in the United States, particularly in the manufacturing and automotive sectors.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest unions in North America, representing nearly 600,000 active and retired members in manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transportation, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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Machinists Union International President Brian Bryant Appointed to President Biden’s Export Council

3 June 2024

WASHINGTON DC – Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), has been appointed by President Biden to serve on the President’s Export Council. This U.S. governmental organization is the principal national advisory committee on international trade, offering a forum for private-sector business and labor leaders, members of Congress, and other administration officials to discuss and resolve trade-related issues.

Bryant, a Maine native and shipbuilder at Bath Iron Works, will represent the voices of 600,000 active and retired IAM members across the aerospace, defense, airline, manufacturing, and other industries in White House trade discussions. He also serves as Vice Chair of the AFL-CIO’s Industrial Union Council, on the Executive Committee of the IndustriALL Global Union, and on the AFL-CIO’s Executive Council.

“Our nation’s trade policies directly affect the livelihoods of our members in so many critical industries,” said Bryant. “I’m extremely thankful to President Biden for nominating me to help ensure that workers have a prominent seat in every trade discussion that affects our jobs, supply chains, and national security.”

The President’s Export Council has recently renegotiated the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The council’s advocacy ensured that the agreement included stronger labor protections for American workers and enforcement mechanisms, leading to better working conditions and higher wages for workers in the United States, particularly in the manufacturing and automotive sectors.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest unions in North America, representing nearly 600,000 active and retired members in manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transportation, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

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United Negotiations Update

United Contract Negotiations Update

29 May 2024

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Last week, we met with United Airlines to set logistics, protocols, and scheduling for our upcoming contract negotiations.

Our members have been clear. We are overdue for a comprehensive contract negotiation under the rules set forth under Section Six of the Railway Labor Act.

Both sides will form subcommittees to work on specific language for each Article across all seven contracts: Fleet Service, Passenger Service, Storekeepers, Maintenance Instructors, Security Officers, Central Load Planners, and Fleet Technical Instructors and Related.

We have agreed to meet one week each month to exchange proposals, starting with Article One. The first sessions are scheduled for the weeks of June 24th, July 15th, and August 12th.

Setting these ground rules is crucial for ensuring a structured and efficient negotiation process. We will provide an update after each session.

In solidarity,

Your Negotiating Committee
Olu Ajetomobi
Joe Bartz
Jill Hazamy
Victor Hernandez
Barb Martin
Terry Stansbury
Faysal Silwany
Erik Stenberg
Sue Weisner

Michael G Klemm
President and Directing General Chair, 
District 141,
International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers

Recording Secretaries: Please print and post on all IAMAW bulletin Boards.

Honoring Their Sacrifice

Honoring Their Sacrifice

Honoring Their Sacrifice

Honoring Their Sacrifice

IAM141.org

Dear IAM Family,

This weekend, we remember those who have given their lives for our freedoms.

For more than 136 years, IAM members have been integral parts of our communities. They have fought—and died—in every major American military mission since our founding in 1888. As a union with deep ties to our military, we will always remember, mourn, and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

That’s why we provide best-in-class services to our military veterans, built an IAM monument to honor our military, and are incredibly proud that IAM members serve the interests of our armed forces each and every day.

This Memorial Day – and every day – we remember those who have given their lives for all of us.

Sincerely,

Brian Bryant
International President

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Honoring Their Sacrifice

26 May 2024

Dear IAM Family,

This weekend, we remember those who have given their lives for our freedoms.

For more than 136 years, IAM members have been integral parts of our communities. They have fought—and died—in every major American military mission since our founding in 1888. As a union with deep ties to our military, we will always remember, mourn, and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

That’s why we provide best-in-class services to our military veterans, built an IAM monument to honor our military, and are incredibly proud that IAM members serve the interests of our armed forces each and every day.

This Memorial Day – and every day – we remember those who have given their lives for all of us.

Sincerely,

Brian Bryant
International President

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The Dawn of the Machinists Union

The Dawn of the Machinists Union

The Dawn of the Machinists Union

The Dawn of the Machinists Union

IAM141.org

In the smoky workshops of late 19th century America, a revolution was brewing. The Industrial Age, with its booming factories and powerful railroads, had brought both progress and hardship. While innovation flourished, so did worker exploitation. It was against this backdrop that a small group of machinists in Atlanta, Georgia, took a stand for themselves and their fellows, sparking the birth of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), a labor union that would leave an indelible mark on American history.

The year was 1888. Thomas W. Talbot, a skilled railroad machinist, witnessed firsthand the plight of his colleagues. Wages were slashed, working conditions were grueling, and job security was nonexistent. Having previously belonged to the Knights of Labor, a broader labor organization, Talbot believed a more focused approach was needed. He envisioned a union specifically for machinists, one that could effectively address their unique challenges.

On May 5th, 1888, with the resolve of those facing an uphill battle, Talbot and 18 other machinists gathered in a locomotive pit, a symbolic location for their clandestine meeting. This makeshift conference room became the birthplace of the Order of United Machinists and Mechanical Engineers, the precursor to the IAMAW.

The fledgling union’s goals were clear: resist wage cuts, secure better working conditions, and establish a safety net for members through unemployment, illness, and accident benefits. It also aimed to elevate the status of machinists, recognizing their skilled craft and demanding fair compensation.

However, the path wouldn’t be easy. The late 19th century was a period of fierce anti-union sentiment. Powerful industrialists saw unions as a threat to their control and wielded their influence to suppress them. Early strikes were often met with violence and strikebreakers. The fledgling union faced constant challenges in securing recognition and bargaining rights from employers.

Despite the obstacles, the Order of United Machinists and Mechanical Engineers persevered. They adopted a motto – “Organization, Cooperation, Education” – reflecting their commitment to building a strong worker base, fostering solidarity, and promoting skills development. This combination of activism and education proved to be a winning formula.

Within a year, the organization held its first convention in Atlanta, Georgia, changing its name to the National Association of Machinists (NAM). The convention established a formal structure, including elected officers and local chapters, laying the groundwork for a national organization.

By the 1890s, the NAM was expanding its reach beyond railroads, attracting machinists from various industries, including manufacturing and shipbuilding. This growth necessitated a name change again, and in 1891, the organization became the International Association of Machinists (IAM).

The IAM’s early victories, including securing the first ever union contract with a major railroad in 1892, proved its effectiveness. This success inspired other skilled workers to organize, contributing to the broader labor movement.

The story of the Machinists Union’s founding is a testament to the power of collective action. It’s a reminder that the fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and worker dignity is a continuous struggle. From those humble beginnings in a locomotive pit, the IAMAW has grown into a powerful organization representing hundreds of thousands of workers across North American industries. As the organization continues to evolve and address new challenges, the spirit of those 19 machinists who dared to fight for a better future remains a cornerstone of the IAMAW’s legacy.

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The Dawn of the Machinists Union

14 May 2024

In the smoky workshops of late 19th century America, a revolution was brewing. The Industrial Age, with its booming factories and powerful railroads, had brought both progress and hardship. While innovation flourished, so did worker exploitation. It was against this backdrop that a small group of machinists in Atlanta, Georgia, took a stand for themselves and their fellows, sparking the birth of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), a labor union that would leave an indelible mark on American history.

The year was 1888. Thomas W. Talbot, a skilled railroad machinist, witnessed firsthand the plight of his colleagues. Wages were slashed, working conditions were grueling, and job security was nonexistent. Having previously belonged to the Knights of Labor, a broader labor organization, Talbot believed a more focused approach was needed. He envisioned a union specifically for machinists, one that could effectively address their unique challenges.

On May 5th, 1888, with the resolve of those facing an uphill battle, Talbot and 18 other machinists gathered in a locomotive pit, a symbolic location for their clandestine meeting. This makeshift conference room became the birthplace of the Order of United Machinists and Mechanical Engineers, the precursor to the IAMAW.

The fledgling union’s goals were clear: resist wage cuts, secure better working conditions, and establish a safety net for members through unemployment, illness, and accident benefits. It also aimed to elevate the status of machinists, recognizing their skilled craft and demanding fair compensation.

However, the path wouldn’t be easy. The late 19th century was a period of fierce anti-union sentiment. Powerful industrialists saw unions as a threat to their control and wielded their influence to suppress them. Early strikes were often met with violence and strikebreakers. The fledgling union faced constant challenges in securing recognition and bargaining rights from employers.

Despite the obstacles, the Order of United Machinists and Mechanical Engineers persevered. They adopted a motto – “Organization, Cooperation, Education” – reflecting their commitment to building a strong worker base, fostering solidarity, and promoting skills development. This combination of activism and education proved to be a winning formula.

Within a year, the organization held its first convention in Atlanta, Georgia, changing its name to the National Association of Machinists (NAM). The convention established a formal structure, including elected officers and local chapters, laying the groundwork for a national organization.

By the 1890s, the NAM was expanding its reach beyond railroads, attracting machinists from various industries, including manufacturing and shipbuilding. This growth necessitated a name change again, and in 1891, the organization became the International Association of Machinists (IAM).

The IAM’s early victories, including securing the first ever union contract with a major railroad in 1892, proved its effectiveness. This success inspired other skilled workers to organize, contributing to the broader labor movement.

The story of the Machinists Union’s founding is a testament to the power of collective action. It’s a reminder that the fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and worker dignity is a continuous struggle. From those humble beginnings in a locomotive pit, the IAMAW has grown into a powerful organization representing hundreds of thousands of workers across North American industries. As the organization continues to evolve and address new challenges, the spirit of those 19 machinists who dared to fight for a better future remains a cornerstone of the IAMAW’s legacy.

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