What does it take to organize an OPEIU mechanic Union?
There are many components involved to organize a union among mechanics. The foundation of any organizing campaign is the willingness of several mechanics to become part of an active organizing committee.
What is an organizing committee?
An organizing committee is a group of mechanics who will work closely with the OPEIU Organizers during all phases of the organizing campaign. They will help gather mechanic’s home addresses, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, base locations, shifts, etc. The committee also follows through on assignments such as: distributing union information, providing feedback, strategy planning, helps prepare leaflets, make phone calls and getting their fellow mechanics to sign Authorization Cards. The committee should consist of mechanics from as many bases as possible. .
Do the organizing committee and other mechanics have the legal right to unionize?
Yes, the law protects mechanics’ right to participate in union activity, and you cannot be fired for your participation. The Railway Labor Act Section 152. (Fourth) General Duties states: ”No carrier, its officers, or agents shall deny or in any way question the right of its’ employees to join, organize, or assist in organizing the labor organization of their choice, and it shall be unlawful for any carrier to interfere in any way with the organization of its’ employees”.
Mechanics must conduct union organizing activities during free time and in non-work areas.
Once the committee is formed, and necessary information gathered, what is the next step?
The next step is to get mechanics to show their interest to unionize by signing Authorization Cards. The signed cards are used to achieve majority support for Union representation and to get a secret ballot election conducted by the National Mediation Board (NMB).
When would we have an election?
After approximately 60% of the eligible mechanics have signed Union Authorization Cards the OPEIU would file an application for a secret ballot election at the NMB. After the NMB receives the application it conducts an investigation. Once the NMB determines that all procedures have been fulfilled an election is arranged.
What is the process for the secret ballot election?
The secret ballot election is conducted by the NMB among all eligible mechanics. NMB elections are by telephonic and internet voting. The complete election time frame takes place within 90 days. Four to six weeks is usually allowed for the casting-to-counting of the ballots. The ballot count takes place at the NMB headquarters in Washington, DC. It takes 50% plus one of who votes yes to win an election.
When does the collective bargaining process begin?
If the election is won the operator must, by law, begin negotiations with the mechanics. Before negotiations commence all mechanics would be surveyed. Contract proposals would be prepared from the surveys. The mechanics would also elect a mechanic negotiation team. The negotiation team works closely with the OPEIU skilled negotiator throughout all phases of negotiations.