Juneteenth: The Fight Continues for Racial and Economic Equality

Juneteenth: The Fight Continues for Racial and Economic Equality

Jun 19, 2023 | Front Page, MNPL, Other News, Recent News, Row 2

Juneteenth: The Fight Continues for Racial and Economic Equality

IAM141.org
June 19, 2023

“Our union has recognized the importance of racial justice in and outside of the workplace over the years.”
-Machinists Union International President, Robert Martinez

Juneteenth holds a vital place in American history. As a holiday, it commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Celebrated on June 19, this day is a tribute to the abolition of slavery, first observed in 1866 by Black Texans in Galveston, Texas. As the IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. articulates, this day was more than just an end to a harrowing chapter of history. He writes, “This day marked the end of an ugly chapter in American history and a new beginning for Black Americans and their quest for equality.”

However, Martinez underscores that the fight for democracy and economic justice is ongoing. “This day is a reminder that the fight continues for democracy and economic justice for all Americans,” says Martinez, elucidating on the role of the IAM union in this battle. Their efforts have been instrumental in dismantling societal barriers and paving the way for full participation for everyone.

According to Martinez, collective bargaining agreements are essential in confronting current threats and ensuring economic success. “The collective bargaining agreements we have fought for over the years have been an essential tool that allows everyone to succeed economically,” he says. An existing threat looming large is the erosion of voting rights, which labor movements strive to counter by highlighting harmful legislation.

In the fight for workers’ rights, Martinez emphasizes the significance of unity and diversity. He states, “We must all come together and fight for workers’ rights. The best way to achieve that goal is to embrace and celebrate our diversity.” For the IAM union, racial justice has always been a pivotal issue. Their constant fight is to ensure its presence in their collective bargaining agreements. Martinez believes “racial justice and economic justice go hand in hand.”

As Juneteenth approaches, Martinez encourages reflection on the strides made thus far and the future work required to achieve racial and economic equality for all. He writes, “Please take this holiday to reflect on how far we have come and the work needed in the future to achieve racial and economic equality for all.”

In closing, Martinez’s words resonate as a profound rallying call for all of us. His message is clear: the fight for racial and economic justice is far from over, and in the spirit of Juneteenth, we must stand in solidarity, committed to continuing the battle for a more equitable future.

+ The full statement can be read here.

 

Related News

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

Feb 8, 2024

EAP Peers:        February is often a month that people are struggling with finances after the holidays. We focus on a government agency that has some terrific resources - the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. This agency has a myriad of resources to help with any...

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

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Juneteenth: The Fight Continues for Racial and Economic Equality

June 19, 2023

“Our union has recognized the importance of racial justice in and outside of the workplace over the years.”
-Machinists Union International President, Robert Martinez

Juneteenth holds a vital place in American history. As a holiday, it commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Celebrated on June 19, this day is a tribute to the abolition of slavery, first observed in 1866 by Black Texans in Galveston, Texas. As the IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. articulates, this day was more than just an end to a harrowing chapter of history. He writes, “This day marked the end of an ugly chapter in American history and a new beginning for Black Americans and their quest for equality.”

However, Martinez underscores that the fight for democracy and economic justice is ongoing. “This day is a reminder that the fight continues for democracy and economic justice for all Americans,” says Martinez, elucidating on the role of the IAM union in this battle. Their efforts have been instrumental in dismantling societal barriers and paving the way for full participation for everyone.

According to Martinez, collective bargaining agreements are essential in confronting current threats and ensuring economic success. “The collective bargaining agreements we have fought for over the years have been an essential tool that allows everyone to succeed economically,” he says. An existing threat looming large is the erosion of voting rights, which labor movements strive to counter by highlighting harmful legislation.

In the fight for workers’ rights, Martinez emphasizes the significance of unity and diversity. He states, “We must all come together and fight for workers’ rights. The best way to achieve that goal is to embrace and celebrate our diversity.” For the IAM union, racial justice has always been a pivotal issue. Their constant fight is to ensure its presence in their collective bargaining agreements. Martinez believes “racial justice and economic justice go hand in hand.”

As Juneteenth approaches, Martinez encourages reflection on the strides made thus far and the future work required to achieve racial and economic equality for all. He writes, “Please take this holiday to reflect on how far we have come and the work needed in the future to achieve racial and economic equality for all.”

In closing, Martinez’s words resonate as a profound rallying call for all of us. His message is clear: the fight for racial and economic justice is far from over, and in the spirit of Juneteenth, we must stand in solidarity, committed to continuing the battle for a more equitable future.

+ The full statement can be read here.

 

 

Related

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

Feb 8, 2024

EAP Peers:        February is often a month that people are struggling with finances after the holidays. We focus on a government agency that has some terrific resources - the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. This agency has a myriad of resources to help with any...

Controversy as Airline Workers Lose Critical Protections

Controversy as Airline Workers Lose Critical Protections

Jun 14, 2023 | Front Page, MNPL, Other News, Row 2

Controversy as Airline Workers Lose Critical Protections

IAM141.org
June 14, 2023

How a Court Ruling Undermines Massachusetts Sick Leave Law for Airline Workers

New details are emerging in the struggle to preserve aspects of the Massachusetts Sick Leave law that would have protected airline workers facing significant personal challenges, including health crises, domestic abuse, and the need to care for family members. 

A court recently ruled that the state could not enforce its sick leave law for airline workers because, in part, “sick leave abuse is common in the airline industry.” Powerful industry lobbyists showed a handful of examples of individual cases of misuse of the law, including a pair of flight attendants that went “sightseeing” after calling out sick and spikes in call-outs following the law’s implementation.

In effect, U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs ruled that airlines should be exempt from state sick leave laws because airline workers will likely need them. 

In reaching its conclusion, the court listed examples of “abuse” that included only a few actual examples from the thousands of legitimate uses of the states’ protections.

Moreover, the court found that airline employees’ misuse of sick leave isn’t limited to the Massachusetts law. In her ruling, Judge Burroughs found that airline employees also abuse company sick leave rules, particularly by calling out sick on holidays and immediately before and after scheduled days off. In one such example, lobbyists pointed to a Logan-based ramp worker who called out sick during the Christmas Holiday in 2016, 2017, and 2019 and another Logan-based ground worker who allegedly used the Massachusetts law to call out on Thanksgiving and during the Superbowl. 

In another example, American Airlines Flight Service Base Manager at Logan, Elena Salinas, recounted an instance where two Boston-based flight attendants traveled to New Zealand and used one day under the Massachusetts Sick Leave law. Salinas then claimed that an “investigation” into their sick calls found the pair “had gone sightseeing on one of the days they called in sick using (Massachusetts Sick Leave.).”

None of the witnesses offered proof that the alleged sick leave misuse cases involved calling out for reasons not covered under the state sick leave law, which covers more than just illness. 

The Massachusetts Earned Sick Time Law (MESTL) gives employees the flexibility to use their accrued sick leave for a range of situations. These situations include times when the employee or a close family member, such as a spouse, child, or parent, needs home care or professional medical care. The law also applies when an employee needs to attend their regular medical check-ups or those of their family members. Furthermore, the law includes protections for circumstances involving domestic violence. Under MESTL, employers must not view an employee’s sick leave negatively due to these situations when making employment-related decisions like evaluations, promotions, discipline, or termination.

None of the cherry-picked examples industry lobbyists cited included evidence that the laws were actually misused. Despite the insinuations, the company lawyers did not show that the holiday sick leaves, for example, were not related to the home care of a close family member. In the case of the flight attendants allegedly misusing sick leave, lawyers did not testify whether they became sick on the day they went “sightseeing,” from food poisoning, for example, and used the subsequent call-outs to recover. In each instance, company lawyers assumed the leave options were being misused and did not consider the possibility the leave was taken for legitimate reasons.

The isolated examples used to justify denying state-provided sick leave are part of a larger trend that, airlines claim, shows their employees are particularly likely to misuse any leave of absence. This includes day trades and company-offered leaves. American Airlines’ lawyers pointed to high absenteeism in 2021 after the carrier paused its attendance policies as evidence that sick time abuse is rampant. Yet, no mention was made that this “absenteeism” was happening at the height of a global pandemic that took an estimated 5.1 million people out of the workforce.

Likewise, United’s Director of Airport Operations, Christopher Painter, testified about a specific instance on December 17, 2020, where so many

ground employees called out sick that he had to cancel four flights because there were not enough employees to complete the necessary services. Painter further testified about flight delays on February 27, 2021, also attributed to ground employee sick calls. His testimony was substantiated by an email from one of the United supervisors he manages, Richard Freddura, stating that the delays resulted from ground employees calling out sick due to mass COVID infections and otherwise arriving late. In these instances, United’s mitigation measures, including overtime and staffing employees to its resource pool, did not prevent these flight delays and cancellations. The airline then blamed the outages on relaxed sick leave policies like Massachusetts’s and completely ignored the then-raging COVID pandemic. 

The recent court decision that Massachusetts cannot enforce its sick leave law for airline workers is a dangerous precedent that could endanger similar state laws across the country. The decision was based on the flawed argument that sick leave abuse is common in the airline industry, but the evidence presented to support this claim was weak and anecdotal. In fact, there is no evidence that sick leave abuse is any more common in the airline industry than in other industries. The industry lobbyists were disingenuous when they used Pandemic related outages to make the case that sick leave was being abused by airline workers. 

The Massachusetts Sick Leave law was designed to protect airline workers facing personal challenges. The evidence presented at trial, rather than proving the law was being abused by lazy airline employees, demonstrated the law was a necessary tool benefiting Massachusetts workers. The lawyers representing airlines ignored the fact that non-punitive sick leave taken during the pandemic undoubtedly saved lives. This decision, which is widely expected to be used in other states with similar workplace protections, will do nothing to prevent absenteeism; instead, it reinforces the crucial importance of worker rights and underscores the pivotal role these laws play in safeguarding public health and individual well-being in times of crisis.

+ The full decision can be read here.

Related News

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

Feb 8, 2024

EAP Peers:        February is often a month that people are struggling with finances after the holidays. We focus on a government agency that has some terrific resources - the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. This agency has a myriad of resources to help with any...

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

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Controversy as Airline Workers Lose Critical Protections

June 14, 2023

How a Court Ruling Undermines Massachusetts Sick Leave Law for Airline Workers

New details are emerging in the struggle to preserve aspects of the Massachusetts Sick Leave law that would have protected airline workers facing significant personal challenges, including health crises, domestic abuse, and the need to care for family members. 

A court recently ruled that the state could not enforce its sick leave law for airline workers because, in part, “sick leave abuse is common in the airline industry.” Powerful industry lobbyists showed a handful of examples of individual cases of misuse of the law, including a pair of flight attendants that went “sightseeing” after calling out sick and spikes in call-outs following the law’s implementation.

In effect, U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs ruled that airlines should be exempt from state sick leave laws because airline workers will likely need them. 

In reaching its conclusion, the court listed examples of “abuse” that included only a few actual examples from the thousands of legitimate uses of the states’ protections.

Moreover, the court found that airline employees’ misuse of sick leave isn’t limited to the Massachusetts law. In her ruling, Judge Burroughs found that airline employees also abuse company sick leave rules, particularly by calling out sick on holidays and immediately before and after scheduled days off. In one such example, lobbyists pointed to a Logan-based ramp worker who called out sick during the Christmas Holiday in 2016, 2017, and 2019 and another Logan-based ground worker who allegedly used the Massachusetts law to call out on Thanksgiving and during the Superbowl. 

In another example, American Airlines Flight Service Base Manager at Logan, Elena Salinas, recounted an instance where two Boston-based flight attendants traveled to New Zealand and used one day under the Massachusetts Sick Leave law. Salinas then claimed that an “investigation” into their sick calls found the pair “had gone sightseeing on one of the days they called in sick using (Massachusetts Sick Leave.).”

None of the witnesses offered proof that the alleged sick leave misuse cases involved calling out for reasons not covered under the state sick leave law, which covers more than just illness. 

The Massachusetts Earned Sick Time Law (MESTL) gives employees the flexibility to use their accrued sick leave for a range of situations. These situations include times when the employee or a close family member, such as a spouse, child, or parent, needs home care or professional medical care. The law also applies when an employee needs to attend their regular medical check-ups or those of their family members. Furthermore, the law includes protections for circumstances involving domestic violence. Under MESTL, employers must not view an employee’s sick leave negatively due to these situations when making employment-related decisions like evaluations, promotions, discipline, or termination.

None of the cherry-picked examples industry lobbyists cited included evidence that the laws were actually misused. Despite the insinuations, the company lawyers did not show that the holiday sick leaves, for example, were not related to the home care of a close family member. In the case of the flight attendants allegedly misusing sick leave, lawyers did not testify whether they became sick on the day they went “sightseeing,” from food poisoning, for example, and used the subsequent call-outs to recover. In each instance, company lawyers assumed the leave options were being misused and did not consider the possibility the leave was taken for legitimate reasons.

The isolated examples used to justify denying state-provided sick leave are part of a larger trend that, airlines claim, shows their employees are particularly likely to misuse any leave of absence. This includes day trades and company-offered leaves. American Airlines’ lawyers pointed to high absenteeism in 2021 after the carrier paused its attendance policies as evidence that sick time abuse is rampant. Yet, no mention was made that this “absenteeism” was happening at the height of a global pandemic that took an estimated 5.1 million people out of the workforce.

Likewise, United’s Director of Airport Operations, Christopher Painter, testified about a specific instance on December 17, 2020, where so many

ground employees called out sick that he had to cancel four flights because there were not enough employees to complete the necessary services. Painter further testified about flight delays on February 27, 2021, also attributed to ground employee sick calls. His testimony was substantiated by an email from one of the United supervisors he manages, Richard Freddura, stating that the delays resulted from ground employees calling out sick due to mass COVID infections and otherwise arriving late. In these instances, United’s mitigation measures, including overtime and staffing employees to its resource pool, did not prevent these flight delays and cancellations. The airline then blamed the outages on relaxed sick leave policies like Massachusetts’s and completely ignored the then-raging COVID pandemic. 

The recent court decision that Massachusetts cannot enforce its sick leave law for airline workers is a dangerous precedent that could endanger similar state laws across the country. The decision was based on the flawed argument that sick leave abuse is common in the airline industry, but the evidence presented to support this claim was weak and anecdotal. In fact, there is no evidence that sick leave abuse is any more common in the airline industry than in other industries. The industry lobbyists were disingenuous when they used Pandemic related outages to make the case that sick leave was being abused by airline workers. 

The Massachusetts Sick Leave law was designed to protect airline workers facing personal challenges. The evidence presented at trial, rather than proving the law was being abused by lazy airline employees, demonstrated the law was a necessary tool benefiting Massachusetts workers. The lawyers representing airlines ignored the fact that non-punitive sick leave taken during the pandemic undoubtedly saved lives. This decision, which is widely expected to be used in other states with similar workplace protections, will do nothing to prevent absenteeism; instead, it reinforces the crucial importance of worker rights and underscores the pivotal role these laws play in safeguarding public health and individual well-being in times of crisis.

+ The full decision can be read here.

Related

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

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Feb 8, 2024

EAP Peers:        February is often a month that people are struggling with finances after the holidays. We focus on a government agency that has some terrific resources - the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. This agency has a myriad of resources to help with any...

Helping Hands June: Suicide Prevention

Helping Hands June: Suicide Prevention

Jun 14, 2023 | EAP, Front Page, Helping Hands, Other News, Row 2

Helping Hands June: Suicide Prevention

EAP Peers:

 
      Helping Hands addresses suicide this month. We feature the 988 hotline that was funded and put in place last July. Since then, calls have increased over 800%! The line is a good resource and can help each of us when we aren’t sure about what to do. Of course, always consult your upline EAP Peer – every time you have a potential suicide. I always call a fellow EAP whenever there is a potential suicide – to insure that I am covering all of the bases. Your regional reps, along with Tony Rodriguez, Chris Davis and now Christine Mahoe on Hawaiian and I are always available to talk. Please welcome Chris as a part of our leadership team! 
 
       There are some signs and symptoms covered this month – those are the entry point for talking with someone your are concerned about. Again – consult consult consult!  
 

       Thank you for being there for your co-workers! You are all doing critical work! 

Bryan,

Bryan Hutchinson, M.S.
Visit the 988 Suicide Prevention Website

Bryan Hutchinson, M.S.
EAP Director
bhutchinson@iam141.org
Cell: 303-229-5117

IAM141 EAP Page
Download EAP Newsletter (PDF)
Download EAP Newsletter (Word)

Recent Articles

Meet Christine Mahoe, the New EAP Chairperson at Hawaiian

Meet Christine Mahoe, the New EAP Chairperson at Hawaiian

Jun 6, 2023 | Front Page, Hawaiian, Other News, Recent News, Row 2

Meet Christine Mahoe, the New EAP Chairperson at Hawaiian

IAM141.org
June 6, 2023
Learn More About the EAP

Christine Mahoe, a seasoned professional from Local Lodge 1979, has been appointed as the new Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Coordinator at Hawaiian Airlines. With her extensive experience as a Chief Cargo Agent, a Customer Service Agent, and an impressive 15-year career in social work, Christine is uniquely positioned to build an effective EAP to guide and support the Machinists Union members through their professional and personal challenges.

Christine’s journey in social work began in 1995 and spanned across various sectors such as domestic violence, family courts, drug rehabilitation, and high-risk youth programs. Her ability to transition between programs during times of budget cuts enriched her expertise across multiple social work domains. Her roles demanded a readiness to assist youths in trouble and to reunite them with their families, skills that will serve her well in her new position. She also served in homeless shelters, learning to identify and leverage resources available within the community, a proficiency that will benefit her in the EAP role.

As the EAP Coordinator, Christine will draw on her past experience to ease the stress and confusion that can sometimes arise from workplace changes. Inspired by the mantra “Be the Change,” she plans to use her extensive experience to guide frontline employees navigating difficult times.

The EAP is a voluntary, work-based program that offers support to employees in resolving personal issues that may adversely impact their work performance, health, and overall well-being. These issues can range from stress, substance abuse, and major life events to financial or legal troubles. The EAP provides free and confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals, and follow-up services to employees.

Understanding the unique circumstances of Hawaii, where different stations are located on various islands, Christine aims to build a resource base for connecting members to services within their communities, a task that aligns well with her past experience in locating resources over several islands. She will also conduct visits to these stations to educate members about the EAP and the significant benefits it provides.

District President Mike Klemm applauded the new appointment, stating, “Christine’s passion and commitment to the well-being of union members is inspiring. We’re excited to have her drive the Employee Assistance Program at Hawaiian Airlines, providing crucial support for our Machinists Union members during these transformative times.”

EAP Director Bryan Hutchinson echoed Klemm’s sentiments. “Christine has demonstrated exceptional dedication and capability in her previous roles,” he said. “We have full faith in her ability to lead the EAP and bring a positive impact to our community.”

“Looking ahead, we anticipate the continued growth and success of the EAP with Christine on the team,” he continued. Machinists Union Members are welcome to reach out to Christine directly or via email at cmahoe@IAM141.org. More information about the Employee Assistance Program can be found online at IAM141.org/141eap.

In the words of Christine, “When I was growing up, my father worked on the sugar plantation and was heavily involved with the union. I watched my dad help so many people who were treated poorly by management. He taught all of my siblings and I to always stand up for what we believed in and to defend those that could not defend themselves. He was my inspiration.”

Related News

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

Feb 8, 2024

EAP Peers:        February is often a month that people are struggling with finances after the holidays. We focus on a government agency that has some terrific resources - the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. This agency has a myriad of resources to help with any...

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

Sign up for Email Alerts

Meet Christine Mahoe, the New EAP Coordinator at Hawaiian

June 6, 2023

Christine Mahoe, a seasoned professional from Local Lodge 1979, has been appointed as the new Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Coordinator at Hawaiian Airlines. With her extensive experience as a Chief Cargo Agent, a Customer Service Agent, and an impressive 15-year career in social work, Christine is uniquely positioned to build an effective EAP to guide and support the Machinists Union members through their professional and personal challenges.

Christine’s journey in social work began in 1995 and spanned across various sectors such as domestic violence, family courts, drug rehabilitation, and high-risk youth programs. Her ability to transition between programs during times of budget cuts enriched her expertise across multiple social work domains. Her roles demanded a readiness to assist youths in trouble and to reunite them with their families, skills that will serve her well in her new position. She also served in homeless shelters, learning to identify and leverage resources available within the community, a proficiency that will benefit her in the EAP role.

As the EAP Coordinator, Christine will draw on her past experience to ease the stress and confusion that can sometimes arise from workplace changes. Inspired by the mantra “Be the Change,” she plans to use her extensive experience to guide frontline employees navigating difficult times.

The EAP is a voluntary, work-based program that offers support to employees in resolving personal issues that may adversely impact their work performance, health, and overall well-being. These issues can range from stress, substance abuse, and major life events to financial or legal troubles. The EAP provides free and confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals, and follow-up services to employees.

Understanding the unique circumstances of Hawaii, where different stations are located on various islands, Christine aims to build a resource base for connecting members to services within their communities, a task that aligns well with her past experience in locating resources over several islands. She will also conduct visits to these stations to educate members about the EAP and the significant benefits it provides.

District President Mike Klemm applauded the new appointment, stating, “Christine’s passion and commitment to the well-being of union members is inspiring. We’re excited to have her drive the Employee Assistance Program at Hawaiian Airlines, providing crucial support for our Machinists Union members during these transformative times.”

EAP Director Bryan Hutchinson echoed Klemm’s sentiments. “Christine has demonstrated exceptional dedication and capability in her previous roles,” he said. “We have full faith in her ability to lead the EAP and bring a positive impact to our community.”

“Looking ahead, we anticipate the continued growth and success of the EAP with Christine on the team,” he continued. Machinists Union Members are welcome to reach out to Christine directly or via email at cmahoe@IAM141.org. More information about the Employee Assistance Program can be found online at IAM141.org/141eap.

In the words of Christine, “When I was growing up, my father worked on the sugar plantation and was heavily involved with the union. I watched my dad help so many people who were treated poorly by management. He taught all of my siblings and I to always stand up for what we believed in and to defend those that could not defend themselves. He was my inspiration.”

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February Helping Hands: Financial Health

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

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EAP Peers:        February is often a month that people are struggling with finances after the holidays. We focus on a government agency that has some terrific resources - the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. This agency has a myriad of resources to help with any...

Corporate Judge Blocks Paid Sick Leave Law

Corporate Judge Blocks Paid Sick Leave Law

Jun 5, 2023 | COVID, Front Page, MNPL, Other News, Row 2, Safety

Corporate Judge Blocks Paid Sick Leave Law

IAM141.org
June 5, 2023

Federal Judge Strikes Down Massachusetts’ Paid Sick Leave Law for Airline Workers, Leaving Thousands of Workers Without a Vital Benefit

A federal judge has ruled in favor of a group of major airlines, blocking the enforcement of Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law for their flight and ground crewmembers. The ruling is a blow to thousands of workers who are denied the right to earn sick time and take care of their health and families.

The lawsuit was filed in 2018 by Airlines for America (A4A), a trade association that represents American Airlines, United, Southwest, JetBlue, and other carriers. A4A argued that the state law, which requires employers to provide one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours per year, was unconstitutional and preempted by federal law.

The judge agreed with A4A, saying that the law would impose an undue burden on interstate commerce and interfere with the airlines’ prices, routes, and services. The judge also said that the law would cause flight delays and cancellations and create a patchwork of different state sick leave requirements.

The ruling ignores the benefits of the law for workers and public health, especially during a pandemic. The law, which took effect in 2015, was passed by voters as a ballot initiative with overwhelming support. The law aims to protect workers from losing their jobs or wages when they are sick or need to care for a family member. The law also helps prevent the spread of illnesses and infections in workplaces and communities.

The ruling also disregards the evidence that paid sick leave laws do not harm businesses or the economy. According to a report by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, paid sick leave laws have not led to job losses, reduced hours, or lower wages in states and cities that have adopted them. On the contrary, paid sick leave laws have been associated with improved productivity, reduced turnover, and increased consumer spending.

The ruling is a victory for powerful corporations and industry lobbyists who put profits over people. A4A has been fighting against paid sick leave laws across the country, including in Washington state, where it filed a similar lawsuit in 2018. A4A has also opposed other measures that would benefit workers and passengers, such as increasing the minimum wage, enhancing safety standards, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The ruling in Massachusets is expected to weaken similar rulings in every state that has enacted them. 

The ruling is a setback for working people and their advocates, who have been fighting for fair and humane labor standards. The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, which defended the law in court, said it was disappointed with the decision and is considering its options. The office said it remains committed to protecting workers’ rights and enforcing the law.

The ruling is not final and could be appealed or overturned by Congress or the Supreme Court. In the meantime, airline workers in Massachusetts will continue to face uncertainty and hardship when they get sick or need to care for their loved ones.

The Judge Who Oversaw the Case

The judge who oversaw the case was U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs. She was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2014 and confirmed by the Senate in 2015. She is one of only two women judges on the U.S. District Court that includes Massachusetts.

Judge Burroughs has a record of ruling against workers’ rights and in favor of corporate interests. In 2019, she dismissed a class action lawsuit by former employees of Dunkin’ Donuts who alleged that they were misclassified as independent contractors and denied overtime pay and other benefits. 

In contrast, Judge Burroughs has sided with big businesses in several cases involving antitrust claims, patent disputes, and trademark infringement. She has also granted injunctions to prevent state regulations from affecting corporate operations.

Judge Burroughs’ ruling in favor of A4A is consistent with her pro-business bias and her disregard for workers’ welfare. She ignored the testimony of experts who testified that paid sick leave laws do not cause significant disruptions or costs for airlines. She also failed to consider the impact of her ruling on public health and social justice.

Judge Burroughs’ ruling is an example of how corporate power seems to reliably influence judicial decisions and undermine democracy. It shows why workers need to organize and fight for their rights at every level of government.

The Impact of the Ruling on Working People in Massachusetts

The court ruling that exempts airline workers from Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law has serious consequences for working people in the state. The ruling deprives thousands of workers of a basic benefit that is essential for their well-being and economic security.

Paid sick leave is a vital protection for workers who face health challenges, either for themselves or their family members. Without paid sick leave, workers may have to choose between going to work while sick or staying home without pay, risking their health, income, and job security. This choice can have negative effects on workers’ physical and mental health, as well as their financial stability.

Paid sick leave also benefits public health and the economy. By allowing workers to stay home when sick, paid sick leave helps prevent the spread of contagious diseases, such as COVID-19, influenza, and other infections. This reduces the burden on the healthcare system and saves lives. According to various studies, paid sick leave also boosts worker productivity, reduces turnover, and increases consumer spending.

Despite these benefits, many workers in the U.S. lack access to paid sick leave, especially low-wage workers, women, people of color, and part-time workers. The U.S. is the only developed country that does not guarantee paid sick leave to all workers at the national level. While some states and cities have passed their own paid sick leave laws, these laws vary widely in terms of coverage, eligibility, and generosity.

Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law is one of the most progressive in the country. It covers nearly all workers in the state, regardless of employer size or industry. It allows workers to earn up to 40 hours of paid sick leave per year at their regular rate of pay. It also protects workers from retaliation or discrimination for using their sick time.

The court ruling that blocks the enforcement of this law for airline workers undermines the intent and purpose of the law. It creates a two-tier system of workers’ rights, where some workers have access to the states’ paid sick leave, and others do not. It also creates confusion and inconsistency for employers and employees who operate in multiple states with different laws.

The court ruling also sets a dangerous precedent for other industries that may seek to challenge state-paid sick leave laws on similar grounds. It opens the door for more lawsuits that could erode workers’ rights and benefits across the country.

The court ruling is a reminder that working people need stronger federal protections for paid sick leave. While some temporary measures were enacted during the pandemic, such as the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, they have since expired or been scaled back. A permanent national paid sick leave policy is needed to ensure that all workers have access to this essential benefit, regardless of where they work or what they do.

Working people deserve dignity and respect in their jobs. They deserve to be able to take care of themselves and their loved ones without fear of losing their livelihoods. They deserve paid sick leave.

Related News

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

Feb 8, 2024

EAP Peers:        February is often a month that people are struggling with finances after the holidays. We focus on a government agency that has some terrific resources - the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. This agency has a myriad of resources to help with any...

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

Sign up for Email Alerts

Corporate Judge Blocks Paid Sick Leave Law

June 5, 2023

Federal Judge Strikes Down Massachusetts’ Paid Sick Leave Law for Airline Workers, Leaving Thousands of Workers Without a Vital Benefit

A federal judge has ruled in favor of a group of major airlines, blocking the enforcement of Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law for their flight and ground crewmembers. The ruling is a blow to thousands of workers who are denied the right to earn sick time and take care of their health and families.

The lawsuit was filed in 2018 by Airlines for America (A4A), a trade association that represents American Airlines, United, Southwest, JetBlue, and other carriers. A4A argued that the state law, which requires employers to provide one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours per year, was unconstitutional and preempted by federal law.

The judge agreed with A4A, saying that the law would impose an undue burden on interstate commerce and interfere with the airlines’ prices, routes, and services. The judge also said that the law would cause flight delays and cancellations and create a patchwork of different state sick leave requirements.

The ruling ignores the benefits of the law for workers and public health, especially during a pandemic. The law, which took effect in 2015, was passed by voters as a ballot initiative with overwhelming support. The law aims to protect workers from losing their jobs or wages when they are sick or need to care for a family member. The law also helps prevent the spread of illnesses and infections in workplaces and communities.

The ruling also disregards the evidence that paid sick leave laws do not harm businesses or the economy. According to a report by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, paid sick leave laws have not led to job losses, reduced hours, or lower wages in states and cities that have adopted them. On the contrary, paid sick leave laws have been associated with improved productivity, reduced turnover, and increased consumer spending.

The ruling is a victory for powerful corporations and industry lobbyists who put profits over people. A4A has been fighting against paid sick leave laws across the country, including in Washington state, where it filed a similar lawsuit in 2018. A4A has also opposed other measures that would benefit workers and passengers, such as increasing the minimum wage, enhancing safety standards, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The ruling in Massachusets is expected to weaken similar rulings in every state that has enacted them. 

The ruling is a setback for working people and their advocates, who have been fighting for fair and humane labor standards. The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, which defended the law in court, said it was disappointed with the decision and is considering its options. The office said it remains committed to protecting workers’ rights and enforcing the law.

The ruling is not final and could be appealed or overturned by Congress or the Supreme Court. In the meantime, airline workers in Massachusetts will continue to face uncertainty and hardship when they get sick or need to care for their loved ones.

The Judge Who Oversaw the Case

The judge who oversaw the case was U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs. She was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2014 and confirmed by the Senate in 2015. She is one of only two women judges on the U.S. District Court that includes Massachusetts.

Judge Burroughs has a record of ruling against workers’ rights and in favor of corporate interests. In 2019, she dismissed a class action lawsuit by former employees of Dunkin’ Donuts who alleged that they were misclassified as independent contractors and denied overtime pay and other benefits. 

In contrast, Judge Burroughs has sided with big businesses in several cases involving antitrust claims, patent disputes, and trademark infringement. She has also granted injunctions to prevent state regulations from affecting corporate operations.

Judge Burroughs’ ruling in favor of A4A is consistent with her pro-business bias and her disregard for workers’ welfare. She ignored the testimony of experts who testified that paid sick leave laws do not cause significant disruptions or costs for airlines. She also failed to consider the impact of her ruling on public health and social justice.

Judge Burroughs’ ruling is an example of how corporate power seems to reliably influence judicial decisions and undermine democracy. It shows why workers need to organize and fight for their rights at every level of government.

The Impact of the Ruling on Working People in Massachusetts

The court ruling that exempts airline workers from Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law has serious consequences for working people in the state. The ruling deprives thousands of workers of a basic benefit that is essential for their well-being and economic security.

Paid sick leave is a vital protection for workers who face health challenges, either for themselves or their family members. Without paid sick leave, workers may have to choose between going to work while sick or staying home without pay, risking their health, income, and job security. This choice can have negative effects on workers’ physical and mental health, as well as their financial stability.

Paid sick leave also benefits public health and the economy. By allowing workers to stay home when sick, paid sick leave helps prevent the spread of contagious diseases, such as COVID-19, influenza, and other infections. This reduces the burden on the healthcare system and saves lives. According to various studies, paid sick leave also boosts worker productivity, reduces turnover, and increases consumer spending.

Despite these benefits, many workers in the U.S. lack access to paid sick leave, especially low-wage workers, women, people of color, and part-time workers. The U.S. is the only developed country that does not guarantee paid sick leave to all workers at the national level. While some states and cities have passed their own paid sick leave laws, these laws vary widely in terms of coverage, eligibility, and generosity.

Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law is one of the most progressive in the country. It covers nearly all workers in the state, regardless of employer size or industry. It allows workers to earn up to 40 hours of paid sick leave per year at their regular rate of pay. It also protects workers from retaliation or discrimination for using their sick time.

The court ruling that blocks the enforcement of this law for airline workers undermines the intent and purpose of the law. It creates a two-tier system of workers’ rights, where some workers have access to the states’ paid sick leave, and others do not. It also creates confusion and inconsistency for employers and employees who operate in multiple states with different laws.

The court ruling also sets a dangerous precedent for other industries that may seek to challenge state-paid sick leave laws on similar grounds. It opens the door for more lawsuits that could erode workers’ rights and benefits across the country.

The court ruling is a reminder that working people need stronger federal protections for paid sick leave. While some temporary measures were enacted during the pandemic, such as the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, they have since expired or been scaled back. A permanent national paid sick leave policy is needed to ensure that all workers have access to this essential benefit, regardless of where they work or what they do.

Working people deserve dignity and respect in their jobs. They deserve to be able to take care of themselves and their loved ones without fear of losing their livelihoods. They deserve paid sick leave.

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Guam Delegate Challenges United’s ‘Absurd’ Prices

Guam Delegate Challenges United’s ‘Absurd’ Prices

Jun 2, 2023 | Front Page, Other News, Row 2, United

Guam Delegate Challenges United’s ‘Absurd’ Prices

IAM141.org
June 2, 2023

Guam Del. James Moylan is seeking more information on flights into and out of Guam, including the reasons behind “absurd” prices for United Airlines tickets in the aftermath of Typhoon Mawar. He has written two letters, one to United Airlines CEO and President John Kirby and the other to Guam International Airport Authority Executive Manager John Quinata.

In his letter to Kirby, Moylan took issue with current prices for flights to Guam, which he said ranged between $4,000 and $7,000. He questioned whether price gouging was occurring and stated that these fares warrant congressional intervention and review from the Guam Attorney General.

“I am writing this letter to express my concerns with the absurd costs for one to travel to and from Guam, especially as we face the aftermath of major natural disaster in Guam, which will surely impact our economic activity in an adverse manner over the coming weeks and months,” Moylan wrote in the letter to United.

He shared that in his search for a flight home, the lowest airfare he could get carried a price tag of more than $5,000. Moylan said the airfare cost to Guam after Typhoon Mawar was also the focus of intense Hawaii media coverage.

“In 2022, mainland flight would cost $2,500 to Guam and now those seats exceed $3,000. We need some answers because these types of fares will certainly warrant congressional intervention and review from the Guam Attorney General,” Moylan stated in the letter to Kirby.
Although the nonvoting delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives said he understood factors such as demand and supply impact airfare costs, he told United that the company needs “to show some compassion.”

United routes between Guam and the mainland are not subject to market forces. The carrier holds a monopoly on all flights connecting the island to the United States.

“Island residents should not be penalized with absurd costs to travel to and from Guam, which is exactly what’s taking place,” Moylan asserted in the letter. He asked Kirby to look at the airfare costs and work with him on a solution.

In his letter to Quinata, Moylan requested a status update on the airport facility and a definite date for inbound and outbound travel to resume. While GIAA announced the airport would be operational by the end of May, Moylan said he wanted to confirm that time frame with the head of the airport.

There have been “too many stories and theories circulating in the community” about when passenger flights will be back, the delegate wrote.

“While I understand that the scheduled date of May 31 as an opening was previously announced, our office would like to know if this is definite,” Moylan asked Quinata.

United Airlines, which enjoys a monopoly on direct flights from Guam to the mainland United States, has come under fire recently for its inflated ticket prices. In comparison to prices for similar distances, United’s Guam-mainland fares stand out as significantly higher. The problem has been exacerbated in the wake of the super typhoon that hit the island.

United Airlines ticket prices have shown no signs of decreasing. This has significant socio-economic implications for the residents of Guam, many of whom depend on these connections for commerce, family visits, and in times like these, recovery support. The call is out for United to voluntarily lower its fares or congressional intervention to prevent such monopolistic price gouging.

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Guam Delegate Challenges United’s ‘Absurd’ Prices

June 2, 2023

Guam Del. James Moylan is seeking more information on flights into and out of Guam, including the reasons behind “absurd” prices for United Airlines tickets in the aftermath of Typhoon Mawar. He has written two letters, one to United Airlines CEO and President John Kirby and the other to Guam International Airport Authority Executive Manager John Quinata.

In his letter to Kirby, Moylan took issue with current prices for flights to Guam, which he said ranged between $4,000 and $7,000. He questioned whether price gouging was occurring and stated that these fares warrant congressional intervention and review from the Guam Attorney General.

“I am writing this letter to express my concerns with the absurd costs for one to travel to and from Guam, especially as we face the aftermath of major natural disaster in Guam, which will surely impact our economic activity in an adverse manner over the coming weeks and months,” Moylan wrote in the letter to United.

He shared that in his search for a flight home, the lowest airfare he could get carried a price tag of more than $5,000. Moylan said the airfare cost to Guam after Typhoon Mawar was also the focus of intense Hawaii media coverage.

“In 2022, mainland flight would cost $2,500 to Guam and now those seats exceed $3,000. We need some answers because these types of fares will certainly warrant congressional intervention and review from the Guam Attorney General,” Moylan stated in the letter to Kirby.
Although the nonvoting delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives said he understood factors such as demand and supply impact airfare costs, he told United that the company needs “to show some compassion.”

United routes between Guam and the mainland are not subject to market forces. The carrier holds a monopoly on all flights connecting the island to the United States.

“Island residents should not be penalized with absurd costs to travel to and from Guam, which is exactly what’s taking place,” Moylan asserted in the letter. He asked Kirby to look at the airfare costs and work with him on a solution.

In his letter to Quinata, Moylan requested a status update on the airport facility and a definite date for inbound and outbound travel to resume. While GIAA announced the airport would be operational by the end of May, Moylan said he wanted to confirm that time frame with the head of the airport.

There have been “too many stories and theories circulating in the community” about when passenger flights will be back, the delegate wrote.

“While I understand that the scheduled date of May 31 as an opening was previously announced, our office would like to know if this is definite,” Moylan asked Quinata.

United Airlines, which enjoys a monopoly on direct flights from Guam to the mainland United States, has come under fire recently for its inflated ticket prices. In comparison to prices for similar distances, United’s Guam-mainland fares stand out as significantly higher. The problem has been exacerbated in the wake of the super typhoon that hit the island.

United Airlines ticket prices have shown no signs of decreasing. This has significant socio-economic implications for the residents of Guam, many of whom depend on these connections for commerce, family visits, and in times like these, recovery support. The call is out for United to voluntarily lower its fares or congressional intervention to prevent such monopolistic price gouging.

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February Helping Hands: Financial Health

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EAP Peers:        February is often a month that people are struggling with finances after the holidays. We focus on a government agency that has some terrific resources - the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. This agency has a myriad of resources to help with any...