IAM Fighting for Historic Investments for Working Families–Strength on Display at Eastern States Conference–Shutdown Averted

Oct 27, 2021 | Machinists On The Hill

MACHINISTS UNION FIGHTING FOR HISTORIC INVESTMENTS FOR WORKING FAMILIES AND CRUCIAL INDUSTRIES: Robert Martinez Jr., International President of the 600,000-member International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), the largest aerospace, defense, and transportation union in North America, released the following statement in full support of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill and Build Back Better Act:

“The IAM was instrumental in helping pass the American Rescue Plan and other rescue packages to help keep our members employed and their families secure. But these were temporary fixes to a problem that needs a permanent solution. The IAM supports the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill and the Build Back Better Act. Both pieces of legislation will provide historic investment for the airline, transit, aerospace, manufacturing, and other critical industries.

Build Back Better is transformative for families, with the Child Tax Credit, child care, home health care, paid family and medical leave, universal pre-K, workforce development, and more. Corporations have been on the receiving end of corporate tax cuts and other special giveaways for too long. We need legislation that will embrace a pro-worker, pro-democracy agenda that provides millions of working families the opportunity to better wages and benefits. 

“The infrastructure package will finally strengthen Buy America rules to help boost our domestic manufacturing sectors.   Our union fought to include the most significant federal investment in public transit and passenger rail since the creation of Amtrak. Our transportation sector will benefit through the modernization projects created through the robust funding provided in this infrastructure package. This investment will help our vital manufacturing and transportation sectors build back better.

“Our union is dedicated to reversing the trend of an economy that serves the wealthiest and most prominent corporations so that working families can live a better life with decent wages and benefits.”

IAM STRENGTH ON DISPLAY AT EASTERN STATES CONFERENCE OF MACHINISTS: The IAM continues to grow stronger, win industry-leading contracts and fights, and offer new services to its members. That was the message at the recent IAM Eastern States Conference of Machinists, held in Queens, NY.

The conference brought together delegates, staff and officers from Maryland to Maine to Michigan and states in between.

“The political activism of the Eastern Territory has delivered victory after victory to our membership and working families,” said E. Michael Vartabedian, Eastern States Conference of Machinists President and IAM District 15 Assistant Directing Business Representative. “Together, we are mobilized and ready to elect worker-friendly candidates across the Eastern Territory.”

The conference showcased ongoing battles such as the fight for a first contract for workers at Cascades Containerboard in Niagara Falls, NY. The conference also recognized Local S6 (District 4) members at Bath Iron Works for its historic summer 2020 strike that protected good IAM Maine jobs.

Organizing is a top priority for the Eastern Territory, as evidenced by a recent organizing win and first contract at Seneca Foods in New York.

Delegates also thanked retired General Vice President Jimmy Conigliaro Sr., who retired from this post leading the Eastern Territory in July after more than 40 years of IAM membership.

“The Eastern Territory is poised to grow and fight for our membership like never before,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President Brian Bryant. “Thanks to the stewardship of Brother Conigliaro, this Territory is ready to hit the ground running and take on any employer or politician. I know that the growing Eastern Territory Grand Lodge staff is going to accomplish great things for our membership.”

International President Robert Martinez Jr. thanked attendees for being on the frontlines for IAM members throughout the pandemic. Martinez also highlighted a new women’s leadership program and a soon-to-released initiative to assist members who are U.S. military service veterans with filing VA claims.

“Many of the biggest victories in our union over the past few years have come out of the Eastern Territory,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “I want you all to know that our union is united, speaking with one voice and winning for our membership.”

MACHINISTS UNION MAKES BIG GAINS IN THE 2022 NDAA: The IAM successfully lobbied for the 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to fund military programs. Together, the programs support more than 100,000 IAM aerospace, defense, and shipbuilding jobs.

The final version of the NDAA included Buy American House-passed language, championed by the IAM and U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross (D-NJ). This provision will strengthen Buy American rules to help boost our domestic manufacturing sectors.

“Our union fought to enhance our nation’s military programs to improve U.S. national security and grow the number of high-skilled jobs for our members in the aerospace defense and shipbuilding industries,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “We also applaud the efforts of Rep. Norcross to help strengthen our country’s defense industrial base and domestic supply chain by including the Buy American rules in the 2022 NDAA.”

Thanks to the IAM’s lobbying efforts, the 2022 NDAA authorizes funding for the following IAM-built and maintained programs:

• Defense Spending top line:  The IAM supported, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed a $25 billion increase in the Department of Defense spending.  This House vote paves the way for $740 billion budget for the Pentagon next year since the Senate Armed Services Committee has already backed that spending level in its version of the bill.  This is $25 billion more than the $715 billion proposed by the administration’s budget request.

• Increase in Buy American Requirement: The House passed IAM/Rep. Norcross’s championed language to increase the Buy American domestic content percentage requirement from 55% to 75% for all future Major Defense Acquisition Programs.  The language will gradually ramp up the percentage from 55% to 75% by 1/1/2029. 

• F-35 program:  The 2022 NDAA authorizes funding for 80 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. The IAM Legislative team is aggressively lobbying the Senate to increase the number in its version for this vitally important defense program.

• Rep Golden’s amendment for MYP Destroyer contract: The House passed IAM/Rep. Golden’s championed language to authorize a new multi-year procurement (MYP) contract to purchase 15 Flight III DDG-51 destroyers over 5 years beginning in 2023. With the current MYP contract set to expire in FY22, there was no scheduled ship procurement plan to ensure enduring workforce stability and skill retention. This new MYP contract is needed to ensure consistent funding for the DDG-51 program in order to properly equip our U.S. Navy and to promote the heath of the U.S. shipbuilding industry.

• National Security Space Launches(NSSL): The NDAA also authorizes $1.4 billion for national security space launches. United Launch Alliance (ULA), with IAM members in AL, FL, and CA, is one of only two NSSL launch providers.

  SHUTDOWN AVERTED: U.S. Congress passed a Continuing Resolution (CR) to avert a lapse in government funding. The funding was set to expire, at midnight on October 8, but the CR eventually passed and was signed by President Biden, eliminating the possibility of a government shutdown. The bill will keep the federal government funded through December 3rd, 2021.

  “We are pleased that leaders in Congress recognize the harmful consequences of a lapse in appropriations and have taken action to avert a shutdown,” said NFFE/IAM National President Randy Erwin. “Our union is urging the House and Senate to come to an agreement well ahead of the next deadline in early December to avoid the possibility of a shutdown. Lapses of funding are a costly waste of taxpayer money. Government shutdowns can also be devastating to hard-working federal employees who have had to go weeks without a paycheck in previous years. Government shutdowns are harmful for federal workers, as well as the country as a whole. We need to stop cutting these things so close. The American people deserve better than this.”

  

  SUPREME COURT WON’T HEAR CASES SEEKING TO GUT AIRLINE, RAILROAD UNION POWER: In a victory for the IAM and transportation union members across the country, the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to hear two cases that sought to bring anti-union, so-called “right-to-work” laws to the airlines and railroads.

  The cases sought to extend the landmark Janus ruling, which allowed public sector workers to receive the benefits of union representation without paying union dues, to airline and railroad workers who are under the Railway Labor Act.

  The IAM, the largest transportation labor union in North America, vigorously fought both cases.

  The Supreme Court’s dismissal is another defeat for conservative, anti-worker groups like the National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation and the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, which represented the workers seeking to gut union representation in the airline and railroad industries.

  “This is a huge victory for IAM Transportation members,” said Richard Johnsen, Chief of Staff to the International President. “This dismissal means that, once again, the enemies of working people will not get in our way. We look forward to continuing to grow our power for airline and railroad workers from coast to coast.”

  The IAM’s strength in the airline and railroad industries has been evidenced by continued industry-leading contracts and unprecedented relief for working families during the pandemic.

  “The IAM is the most powerful voice in the world for airline and railroad workers,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “The IAM Transportation Department and the IAM Legal Department are to be commended for fighting and winning against these anti-union forces.”

  

  VIRGINIA STATE COUNCIL OF MACHINISTS CONVENE FOR FALL MEETING: Delegates from across Virginia gathered in Roanoke recently for the Virginia State Council of Machinists fall meeting. Discussions at the biannual meeting focused on the importance of the upcoming elections and the Machinists Union’s vital role in getting the vote out.

  “The council did a great job addressing a variety of labor issues, including presentations outlining how high member participation in the upcoming elections could shape the future of the labor movement in the state,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Rickey Wallace. “This election will have a lasting effect on working people in Virginia, and we must support Gubernatorial Candidate Terry McAuliffe, who champions the same principles the IAM fights for every day.”

  The Virginia State Council of Machinists also endorsed Hala Ayala (D) for Lieutenant Governor and Mark Herring (D) for state Attorney General. 

  WATCH: Gubernatorial Candidate Terry McAuliffe speaking to the Virginia State Council of Machinists

  Members attending the Virginia State Council meeting heard how the Machinists Non-Partisan Political League(MNPL) helps strengthen our union and state councils. The voluntary donations to the MNPL help us get pro-union candidates up and down the ballot elected in hopes of implementing a pro-worker, pro-democracy agenda in the state. Increasing contributions to the MNPL will be a big push for the Virginia State Council now and in the upcoming future.

  “This year’s Virginia State Council meeting allowed us to educate members about some of the pressing issues we have in our state,” said Virginia State Council of Machinists President Larry Battle. “During the council meeting, we spent a good majority of time explaining “Campaign in a Box,” our get out the vote program to mobilize our members for the 2021 November elections. We stressed the importance of working to elect candidates who will fight on behalf of working Virginians. The Virginia State Council of Machinists is working to implement a pro-worker platform that focuses on workers’ rights issues, increasing jobs training opportunities, and fighting to eliminate so-called right-to-work laws in our state.”

  Vice-President Charles Mann will be the incoming president for the upcoming year. Other members of the Virginia State Executive Council include:

  Daniel Mason, recording secretary

  Linda Henderson, secretary-treasurer

  Charlie Long, eastern regional director

  Bob Key, central regional director

  Bill Pierce, northern regional director

  Phyllis Butterworth, western regional director

  The Virginia Machinist Council, founded in 1942, is the political and education arm of the IAMAW in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Council works on behalf of all working families through involvement in our members’ political process and education.

  

  U.S. LABOR SECRETARY MEETS WITH REP. GOLDEN, MAINE SENATE PRESIDENT JACKSON, AND NEW ENGLAND LOGGERS COOPERATIVE: The IAM recently participated in a meeting at the Maine State House to address the challenges facing loggers and wood-haulers in northern Maine. The discussion with Maine Senate President Troy Jackson, Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02), New England Loggers Cooperative, and U.S. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh centered around the misuse of foreign labor by employers in the northern Maine woods and finding ways to help improve the lives of those who make their living from harvesting the forest products of northern Maine.

  “It feels good to get some attention on some of the issues we face in the Maine logging industry,” said New England Loggers Cooperative member Dana Gardner. I look forward to hearing solutions for the problems facing loggers and wood-haulers in northern Maine. It will take a lot of work to make the necessary changes to ensure the people doing most of the work get their fair share.

  “I appreciate the Secretary of Labor meeting with me, Senate President Jackson, and Maine loggers and truck drivers today to discuss ways the federal government can address unfair labor and trade practices from Canada,” said Rep. Golden. “We look forward to partnering with Secretary Walsh to address these issues and help protect American logging and trucking jobs.”

  President Jackson has introduced several pieces of legislation to protect Maine trucking jobs and penalize offending companies for breaking the law, including a new state law that takes effect October 18. In addition, he has written to the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Homeland Security, the Secretary of State, and the Department of Labor. Last summer, he filed a complaint against the Department of Labor for failing to enforce federal cabotage laws.

   “For years, Maine loggers and wood-haulers have raised the alarm about the misuse of foreign labor by large landowners and trucking companies. It seems clear that this practice violates federal law by adversely affecting the wages, working conditions, and job opportunities for folks trying to make a decent living in the Maine woods,” said President Jackson. “The fact that Labor Secretary Walsh took the time to meet with us today and talk directly with those harmed by this injustice really means a lot. I’m hopeful that it will lead to further action by the federal government.”

  “The IAM appreciates the opportunity to discuss the issues in the logging industry with individuals who stand with labor,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President Brian Bryant. “Our team in the Eastern Territory is dedicated to working to help achieve justice for the loggers and make real changes to the industry. Our collective efforts will create increased power for the workers in Maine.”

  

  IAM TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT OFFERS SOLUTIONS TO HELP THWART PASSENGER VIOLENCE AGAINST AIRLINE GROUND CREWS: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is tapping the IAM and other labor unions for guidance on new measures to help combat the recent rise in passenger violence, an issue with growing public attention due in-part to a string of viral videos documenting the incidents. 

  The FAA recently held a roundtable discussion with the IAM and several other unions representing airline workers. The IAM, the largest airline union in North America, has been a staunch advocate for increased safety measures for the workforce. The IAM was successful with including language in the FAA reauthorization bill to address assaults on customer service agents, which now awaits FAA full implementation.

  The union has been part of other recent federal agency roundtable discussions about airline worker safety, as well as the IAM supporting U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Peter DeFazio (D-OR) for urging the agency to take swift actions like civil enforcement and steep fines to help thwart the growing number of assaults on airline employees.

  DeFazio’s correspondence to the FAA also referenced the agency’s own data showing steep increases in air rage incidents subject to enforcement this year. There have been 628 such incidents in 2021 as of August 6, nearly twice the previous peak of 310 in 2004.

  The FAA’s recent roundtable included IAM Transportation Coordinator Edison Fraser, who urged the agency to also focus on ground crews like customer service agents, often overlooked in comparison to flight crew members like pilots and flight attendants.

  “These are workers like ticket agents who are the first contact for people who enter the airport,” Fraser said. “There’s been a lot of focus on the flight crew, but the safety of the ground crew is equally important. These are hard-working men and women who deserve the same protections.”

  Enforcement and Education

  Enforcing facemask mandates has spurred some violent incidents. The task of ensuring passengers comply with the mandate should not solely fall on the shoulders of customer service agents, but also be enforced by TSA agents “which would be no different than when they enforced unattended bags,” Fraser said.

  Fraser also urged the federal agency to remedy loopholes in jurisdictions between federal and local law enforcement, an issue that comes into play when pursuing and prosecuting a person after they leave the airport grounds following a violent incident.

  Fraser also urged the FAA to do more to educate the public that assaulting airline workers is a federal crime.

  “There was a lot of education after the 9/11 attacks, such as public address announcements and even billboards alerting people to be aware of and report suspicious bags or activity,” Fraser said. “We can do the same public awareness, which explains that assaulting an airline worker is a federal crime.”

  The FAA roundtable marked just the latest outreach effort by IAM’s Transportation division in recent months.

  In July, Chief of Staff to the International President Richard Johnsen took part in an Aviation Labor Recovery Roundtable call with FAA Administrator Steve Dickson and U.S. Transportation Department Deputy Secretary Polly Trottenberg.

  Johnsen then urged participants on the call to share the union’s urgency to address low staffing to increase safety and protection of workers.

  Workers Demand Safety

  Johnsen and Fraser have also been fielding questions and concerns about safety from members in recent months as they’ve been holding a series of site visits across the U.S.

  The visits, part of a new IAM Transportation Department program, has been the key to gaining the first-hand concerns of members from coast-to-coast.

  “These are hard-working men and women who have been on the frontlines since the COVID-19 pandemic started. They work tirelessly to help ensure passengers get to their destination safely,” Johnsen said. “These workers deserve the upmost safety while doing their job. Our top priority is to keep fighting to make sure every member is safe on the job.”

  “Our members deserve the right to work in an environment where they can focus on great customer service, not fear of being attacked by passengers,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez, Jr. “We are proud to be shaping policies that will ultimately help ensure our hard-working members are protected on the job.”

  

  AEROSPACE WORKERS SHOULD PILOT FUTURE OF A GREAT AMERICAN INDUSTRY: IAM District 751 President Jon Holden wrote an op-ed in the Seattle Times on the future of the Aerospace industry. This op-ed originally appeared in the Seattle Times:  

  September marked the 86th anniversary of the beginning of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 751. The district came together to fight for dignity and fairness, resulting in the first labor agreement with Boeing one year later, in 1936.

  The fight wasn’t just about Boeing. It was a battle to ensure that our union and Washington state would grow the aerospace industry, significantly impacting generations of working families through good-paying jobs and benefits. Today, IAM District 751 represents more than 26,000 workers in the aerospace industry.

  Our industry is facing many challenges ahead. Challenges that existed before the onset of a pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in the aerospace industry. Last year at this time, thousands of workers in our state were unclear about their future, and some suffered the worst fate from the pandemic. More than 100,000 aerospace jobs were lost last year, many of them in our state. The aerospace industry is vitally important to our national security, our domestic supply chain, and our state’s economy.

  The leadership of the IAM, along with U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell and the rest of the Washington congressional delegation, spearheaded efforts to pass legislation to provide much-needed relief and help prevent even worse layoffs to workers in the aerospace manufacturing and maintenance, overhaul and repair industries.

  The Aviation Manufacturing Jobs Protection Act, part of the American Rescue Plan relief legislation passed by Congress, provided $3 billion in payroll support funding to aviation manufacturers, allowing them to keep tens of thousands of aerospace manufacturing workers on their payrolls.

  The Seattle Times recently reported that the Biden administration has issued $482 million from this relief legislation available to aviation industry manufacturers, to help them avert job or pay cuts in the pandemic. That includes $41 million to aerospace companies in our state. According to The Times, the largest recipient of the funds is Spirit AeroSystems, an IAM-represented company and a major Boeing supplier based in Kansas, which stands to receive $75.5 million that the government says will help protect 3,214 jobs.

  As a result of this legislation and other actions, the Washington economy is rebounding. But we have to ask ourselves, where do we go from here?

  The Washington congressional delegation and the IAM continue working on solutions to secure the aerospace workforce for the future and protect one of our last great manufacturing industries.

  The Washington state aerospace industry has been essential for the renewed growth of the Washington economy. It is a $70 billion industry with more than 130,000 workers and supporting more than 250,000 jobs, according to the Washington Commerce Department.

  We need to reassess the future of the last great American industry and ask ourselves whether we are doing enough to sustain our aerospace industry. We have heard from the Biden-Harris administration about their commitment to building back better. We know our congressional delegation has diligently worked to push through legislation to improve the aerospace industry. 

  They kept their promise by delivering a “Build Back Better” plan to Congress that will impact generations of America’s working families by creating good union jobs that offer solid wages and benefits. Buy American rules included in that package will strengthen our U.S. aerospace industry and increase good-paying union jobs.

  But we remain concerned that companies continue to transfer U.S. technology overseas and to move American jobs offshore. In a recent roundtable discussion with U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and other area labor leaders, I called for immediate Chinese recertification of the IAM-built Boeing 737 MAX. I also outlined concerns over China’s growing aerospace footprint.

  We stressed the importance of focusing efforts on worker-centered trade policy and sounding the alarm on transferring U.S. technology and jobs to China if we want to continue holding on to our No. 1 ranking in aerospace sales, exports, profits and employment. Chinese government subsidies to its aerospace industry create an unfair playing field.

  We pledge to do our part to stay No. 1 in the world by investing in our state’s workforce and figuring out what role Washington aerospace workers will play in emerging technologies to reduce emissions in the aviation sector through improvements in aircraft technology and fuels and operational improvements.

  We need to make sure that all efforts in this area are designed, engineered and built in the United States. These improvements should center on the U.S. aerospace industry and include good, middle-class jobs in all our communities. We also can ensure that research and development, test and evaluation of sustainable aviation technology remain here in the U.S. We should not see our technology given away to other countries for aircraft sales, creating competent competitors.

  IAM District 751 has repeatedly called for an increase in registered apprenticeship programs. We were excited to receive a $10 million grant dedicated to training the next generation of aerospace workers while allowing greater access to women, people of color, military veterans and younger workers. These programs have the infrastructure to make sure that the skills learned are well-rounded and transferrable to many industries so that a worker can use them anywhere in the country.

  Moving these solutions forward is how to build a better future that makes our state’s economy soar while protecting Washington state aerospace workers’ rights to organize, be safe at work and achieve economic justice.

  Jon Holden joined the Machinists Union (IAM) after being hired as a materials management specialist at Boeing’s Everett plant more than 24 years ago. He was elected president of IAM District 751 in 2014, representing more than 26,000 workers at Boeing and workers at aerospace suppliers, health care facilities and other industries.

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IAM Supports FAA’s 10-Hour Rest Rule- Big Win for Maine Lobstering Union- Efforts Underway to Bolster F-35 Program

Oct 27, 2021 | Machinists On The Hill

IAM FULLY SUPPORTS FAA’s 10-HOUR REST RULE FOR FLIGHT ATTENDANTS: The IAM, North America’s largest airline union, stands in full support of the swift implementation of the 10-hour rest rule for Flight Attendants. The rule to give Flight Attendants an extra hour of rest was mandated in the 2018 FAA Reauthorization Act, and was required to go into effect that year, but has been delayed by the previous administration.

On Thursday, after years of advocacy from the IAM and other airline unions, the FAA moved forward with a rule that would increase minimum Flight Attendant rest time from nine hours to 10.

“Our union is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all workers and this rule change will undoubtedly help provide much-needed relief for Flight Attendants,” said Richard Johnsen, Chief of Staff to the International President. “Flight Attendants are on aviation’s frontlines and must be given the proper rest in order to perform their jobs safely. It is of the utmost importance that the 10-hour rule is implemented as soon as possible.”

“The IAM has been championing this rule change since its initial proposal and has aggressively been lobbying on Capitol Hill for over a decade,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “Our Legislative team has been instrumental in leading this charge by meeting countless times with lawmakers from both parties and holding rallies in support. Flight Attendant fatigue is a serious issue that can affect their health and safety and also that of the traveling public. The extra hour of rest is vital and long-overdue.”

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Task Force on Worker Organizing-End Outsourcing Act-Help Pass the PRO Act

Oct 18, 2021 | Machinists On The Hill

THINGS WORKERS NEED TO KNOW AFTER PRESIDENT BIDEN”S ADDRESS: President Biden rolled out his pro-union plan to rebuild the nation’s roads, bridges, water pipes, and expand broadband access during his first address to a joint session of Congress.

President Biden also mentioned jobs more than 40 times during his address, touting not only the addition of 1.3 million jobs during his administration but the need to pass The American Jobs Plan. Biden called the jobs plan a blue-collar blueprint to build America. The plan calls for significant investments in traditional and infrastructure and green energy.

The President called on Congress to pass the Protect the Right to Organize Act(PRO Act).

The PRO Act, which passed the House in March, has gained momentum in the Senate after IAM Members and working families across the U.S. flooded Senate offices recently, with calls to support this country’s hardworking men and women supporting the PRO Act.

Read: Key takeaways from Biden’s 1st address to a joint session of Congress ABC News

MACHINISTS APPLAUD BIDEN-HARRIS TASK FORCE ON WORKER ORGANIZING:  “Joe Biden is a man of his word,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “He said he would fight every day for unions and working people, and that is exactly what the Biden-Harris administration is delivering. Joe Biden knows that unions built the middle class and that only unions can rebuild the middle class.

“That’s why the Machinists Union will do everything we can to support the Biden-Harris Task Force on Worker Organizing and Empowerment. From passing the PRO Act to bringing our jobs home, the IAM is mobilized to build the future right here in America with union workers. Let’s build back better by growing unions and bringing justice on the job to millions of American workers.”

U.S. SENATOR KIRSTEN GILLIBRAND (D-NY) INTRODUCES THE END OUTSOURCING ACT: This important legislation, introduced in the Senate by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) would utilize the tax code, as well as the federal grant, loan, and contracting process to stop the rampant outsourcing of U.S. jobs to foreign nations and help bring these jobs back on to U.S. soil. The End Outsourcing Act, was introduced in the House by Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI).

IAM President Robert Martinez Jr. applauded this legislation.

“For far too long, U.S. businesses have been free to outsource U.S. jobs to low-cost, low-wage nations in search of ever-increasing cost reductions and short-term profits,” said Martinez. “This problem is particularly acute in the manufacturing and aerospace industries where tens of thousands of our IAM members’ jobs have been relocated abroad. In addition to the negative impact of this job loss on America’s working families and communities, the transfer of this work to other nations jeopardizes the strength of the U.S. economy, the integrity of our domestic industrial base, and our status as a world leader in technology and innovation. The End Outsourcing Act is precisely the kind of legislation our country needs to stop the rampant outsourcing of U.S. jobs, revitalize our domestic manufacturing industry, and bring quality jobs back onto U.S. soil.”

BIDEN’S AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN PROVIDES FREE COBRA COVERAGE: 

President Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act provides 100 percent health COBRA coverage to employees and their family members. IAM members would qualify for COBRA coverage if they lost health insurance (including medical, dental, and vision plans) due to a reduction in hours being cut back, switch from full time to part-time, a temporary leave of absence, participation in a strike, or involuntary termination of employment, as long as they are not otherwise eligible for group health coverage. Coverage runs from April 1, 2021 through September 30, 2021.

“COBRA subsidies included in the American Rescue package is just another validation on why the Biden-Harris administration cares for working families,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “Our members who have suffered from layoffs, reduced hours, or are on a picket line for better wages and benefits, have a lifeline to keep them and their families safe and healthy during the pandemic. I want to thank every IAM member from around the country who made calls urging their representatives to pass this vital legislation.”   

READ: FAQS ABOUT COBRA PREMIUM ASSISTANCE UNDER THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN

IAM APPLAUDS APPOINTMENT OF CELESTE DRAKE TO HEAD PRESIDENT BIDEN’S MADE IN AMERICA OFFICE:  “The IAM could not be more pleased with President Biden’s appointment of Celeste Drake as head of the Buy American/Made in America Office,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “Simply stated, Celeste is the best candidate for the job. She is a tireless worker for America’s middle class. With Celeste at the head of this very important office, America’s workers can rest assured that the administration will be doing everything it possibly can to bring supply chains home and to make it in America. The IAM looks forward to working with Celeste to make sure that we build back better.”

HELP PASS THE PRO ACT: The Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act or H.B. 842 that passed the House in early March, has gained momentum in the Senate after IAM Members along with working families across the U.S. flooded Senate offices with calls to support the hardworking men and women of this country by supporting the PRO Act.

The PRO Act puts workers first and strengthens the rights of workers to join and participate in a labor union.   

The PRO Act will:

• Create pathways for workers to form unions without fear of retribution
• Repeal anti-worker “right-to-work” laws across the country
• Hold corporations accountable by strengthening the National Labor Relations Board
• Empower workers to exercise the freedom to organize and bargain
• Ensure that workers can reach a first contract quickly after recognition

The Machinists Union has compiled a list of ways you can help pass the PRO Act: 

• Call your Senators at 866-832-1560. Please send a message using our action alert.
• Share the IAM’s PRO Act posts on Facebook and Twitter.
• Join a socially distanced event in your community to support the PRO Act.

The PRO Act is the most comprehensive piece of labor legislation introduced since the Great Depression. At its core, it protects the rights of people who want to be part of a labor union and repeals laws that hurt workers.

IAM STRONGLY SUPPORTS SUBMARINE PROGRAMS: The IAM sent a letter of support urging members of Congress to sign on to a bipartisan congressional letter calling for support of the Virginia-class submarine and the Columbia-class sea-based deterrence submarine. 

“Our nation’s attack submarine fleet remains one of our most important strategic defense assets; however, the U.S. submarine fleet is projected to face the deepest shortfall below requirement of any ship type over the next 30 years,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “Continued, unwavering support of the Virginia-class submarine program is essential to our national security and to ensuring the United States maintains its dominance at sea.”  

The letter led by Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT), Rob Wittman (R-VA) and James Langevin (D-RI), asks the Chair and Ranking Member of the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee to support full funding for the sustained two-per-year build rate for the Virginia-class submarine, full funding for the Columbia-class submarine program, and funding to continue supplier development efforts in order to bolster our domestic submarine industrial base as they develop the Fiscal Year 2021 Defense appropriations bill. 

96 lawmakers signed on to the letter.

FORMER IAM LEGAL FELLOW DEIRDRE HAMILTON NOMINATED TO NATIONAL MEDIATION BORAD:  President Biden has appointed longtime labor lawyer and former IAM Legal Fellow Deirdre Hamilton to the National Mediation Board (NMB). The NMB helps smooth out disputes in the rail and airline industries.

“We are very happy to see Ms. Hamilton appointed to the NMB,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “It’s refreshing to have worker friendly members appointed to these very important positions in the U.S. Government. Ms. Hamilton will serve rail and airline workers well, and protect the interests of all those in the sector to protect and grow these great middle-class jobs.”

In January, the IAM joined 18 unions representing rail and aviation workers in sending a letter the Biden administration asking for some immediate attention to the National Mediation Board, which included the nomination of Hamilton.

NFFE-IAM SECURES GAO STUDY OF FEDERAL WILDLAND FIREFIGHTER PAY AND TITLES: NFFE-IAM successfully lobbied for a review of federal wildland firefighter pay and position descriptions within the agencies that provide firefighting services to federal lands.  Mostly from the Departments of Agriculture and Interiors, wildland firefighting has gotten more demanding as fire conditions worsen and lengthen every year across the country.  NFFE-IAM worked with Senators Feinstein, Sinema, and Merkley to request the GAO study into pay and position descriptions to assist agencies with recruitment, retention, career ladders, and proper compensation for working extremely long hours in dangerous conditions.   

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Labor Standards Petition Filed Against Mexico – CNO and Maine Senators visit Bath Iron Works Local S6 Members– House Leaders Request Study on the Impacts of PSR

Oct 18, 2021 | Machinists On The Hill

Friday, May 14, 2021

IAM Officers, Staff and Members — This email newsletter is an effort to better communicate with our membership on how the IAM is fully engaged on important legislative matters that affect our day-to-day lives. Our goal is to get this information out to our membership on the shop floors. Please make it a top priority to consistently share this important new initiative with our membership.

In solidarity,
Robert Martinez Jr.
International President

HELLO AND WELCOME TO MACHINISTS ON THE HILL, a twice-monthly roundup of legislative advocacy on behalf of IAM members.

Produced by: IAM Legislative and Communications Departments

MACHINISTS UNION SUPPORTS LABOR STANDARDS PETITION FILED AGAINST MEXICO:  “The IAM, an affiliate of the AFL-CIO, strongly supports the first petition filed under the USMCA charging Mexico with violating the labor standards provisions of the trade agreement,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr.  “Workers at the auto parts plant Tridonex in Matamoros are entitled under the agreement to freely select the union they want. These rights were violated. Throughout the world, workers are entitled to the right to form a union. The company’s conduct not only violated these fundamental human rights, but Mexico, which agreed to honor these rights under USMCA, must act quickly to enforce its laws and provide adequate and effective remedies to the workers.

“The IAM will work hard in the coming days to make sure that the labor standards in USMCA are enforced in all industrial sectors in Mexico, including aerospace.”

MACHINISTS UNION ADVOCACY GROWS BIPARTISAN SUPPORT FOR F-35 PROGRAM: The IAM’s advocacy on Capitol Hill is paying dividends with growing bipartisan support for the F-35 program, which is proudly built by Machinists Union members. As Congress begins consideration of their Fiscal Year 2022 defense authorization and spending bills, the Machinists Union is working to ensure that Congress continues their investment in this vitally important defense program.

A bipartisan group of 132 House Representatives and 20 U.S. Senators recently penned their support of the F-35 program to House and Senate heads of the Appropriations and Armed Services committees.

IAM members work up and down the supply chain to build the F-35, which strengthens national security, enhances global partnerships and powers economic growth.

WATCH: Lawmakers applaud IAM members who build F-35

The IAM and allies in Congress are emphasizing the critical need to maintain course towards the F-35’s full rate of production and an increased investment in modernization and sustainment in order to improve readiness and repair capacity as the program continues to grow.

“Machinists Union members take great pride in building the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter for three U.S. military services,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “The F-35 program creates a powerful economic impact for our nation and it produces a game-changing aircraft that keeps our fighter pilots safe. Now is the time to invest in the best air-to-air fighter by ramping up the production line to reduce unit costs and continue to handle the world’s current and emerging threats.”

READ: Our national security depends on a strong F-35 program built by American workers The Hill

The F-35 industrial base consists of more than 1,800 suppliers and more than 254,000 direct and indirect jobs across the country.

MACHINISTS ANNOUNCE SUPPORT FOR KIRAN AHUJA, PRESIDENT BIDEN’S CHOICE FOR DIRECTOR OF THE U.S. OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (OPM): “The IAM is proud to announce our support for President Biden’s appointment of Kiran Ahuja, as director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM),” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “No one is better equipped to protect our federal career workforce from patronage, discrimination, corruption and political overreach. Kiran will fight for all federal workers, regardless of their political affiliation or connections. The OPM provides critical support for government employees in all branches of the federal government, including many of our National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) members. The IAM looks forward to working with Kiran in uplifting our nation’s career public workforce.”

MACHINISTS UNION APPLAUDS USTR CALL FOR INVESTIGATION OF ALLEGED VIOLATIONS AT GENERAL MOTORS PLANT IN MEXICO: “The IAM applauds U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai for seeking review under USMCA for what appears to be egregious violations of labor standards at a General Motors plant in Mexico,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “The action by USTR signifies that the United States will not sit idly by while basic labor standards are violated in Mexico. We look forward to many more self-initiated actions by the U.S. under the USMCA.”

READ: U.S. asks Mexico to review alleged labor violations at GM plant The Detroit News  

CNO AND MAINE SENATORS VISIT BATH IRON WORKS LOCAL S6 MEMBERS: Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday, traveled to Bath, Maine, May 10 to visit Bath Iron Works with Sen. Susan Collins and Sen. Angus King.

“One of the most important reasons I am in Maine today is to ensure every person here knows their work is critically important to our Navy,” said Gilday. “DDGs are the workhorse of our Fleet, and simply put, you can’t get to the fight if you don’t have ships to sail there. To the entire workforce here at Bath Iron Works who are responsible for helping us generate warfighting readiness, you have my profound thanks.”

During the trip, Gilday and the Senators saw Bath Iron Works’ shipyard facilities, toured and met with Sailors aboard USS Daniel Inouye (DDG 118).

“It was a pleasure to host Admiral Gilday in Maine to tour Bath Iron Works,” said Senator Collins.  “I am proud of the highly skilled employees at BIW who build the best ships in the world.  Today’s visit provided Adm. Gilday with the opportunity to see firsthand the impressive work that they do to provide our sailors with high quality and technologically advanced destroyers.  As a senior member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, I will continue to be a strong advocate for the shipyard, and I look forward to working with the Navy to increase the size and capabilities of our fleet.”

During the tour they also visited the Bath Iron Works Training Academy, which teaches new workers to become pipefitters, welders, tinsmiths, and other tradespeople.

“I’ve long believed that ‘one day of seeing is better than one hundred days of reading.’ Today, the CNO lived by that mantra by coming to get a firsthand look at the important work being done at Bath Iron Works,” said King. “The ships being built at BIW are the workhorses of the Navy, playing an outsized role in our national defense – and they’re all the product of the skill and dedication of Maine’s shipbuilders. I’m grateful to the CNO for taking the time to visit BIW, which is an essential part of our national defense infrastructure and a major economic engine for the State of Maine. In the months ahead, I will continue collaborating with Navy leaders and my colleagues on the Senate Armed Services Committee to ensure that this shipyard has the tools it need to continue bolstering our national defense and supporting thousands of good-paying jobs for families throughout Maine.”

 The visit marked CNO’s first trip to Bath Iron Works.

READ: US Navy’s top officer applauds workforce at Bath Iron Works Navy Times

MACHINISTS UNION URGES CONGRESS TO SUPPORT THE 911 SAVES ACT: The IAM is urging members of Congress to cosponsor H.R.2351, the 911 SAVES Act sponsored by Rep. Norma Torres (D-CA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA).

The bill directs the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to update their classification for Public Safety Telecommunicators, as a protective service within the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) catalog that is used for statistical purposes.

The Machinists Union represents Public Safety (9-1-1) Dispatchers in the City of Long Beach, CA.

“They work hard and bear the unbelievable stress of emergencies every minute of their day, said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. Having them properly reclassified and giving them the recognition they deserve for the work they do, is the right thing to do. They not only save the lives of the public but also the lives of first responders and they should be valued.

Read the full letter here  

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Labor, Political Allies and District 65 Call for Contract at Cascades – Standing Up for Wildland Firefighters – District 54 Joins Biden in Cleveland

Oct 18, 2021 | Machinists On The Hill

IAM DISTRICT 65, CASCADES CONTAINERBOARD WORKERS RALLY FOR FIRST CONTRACT TWO YEARS AFTER JOINING IAM: New Machinists Union members employed by Cascades Containerboard in Niagara Falls, NY, recently rallied to call for a first contract. The 115 workers voted to join the IAM more than two years ago, and the National Labor Relations Board certified that election in June 2019.

Workers were joined at the rally by IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President Jimmy Conigliaro Sr. and IAM Headquarters General Vice President Brian Bryant. Nearly a dozen other unions showed their support. U.S. Rep. Brian Higgins (D-NY), Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino, Western New York Area Labor Federation, AFL-CIO President Peter DeJesus Jr. and other labor officials spoke and pledged support to the workers.

Higgins wrote a letter to Cascades Containerboard President and Chief Operating Officer Charles Malo, strongly encouraging the company to engage with the IAM at the bargaining table.

WATCH: Cascades Containerboard Workers Demand Contract

Working conditions at the facility were key issues for the employees. Cascades hired notorious union-busters Jackson-Lewis to thwart the campaign, only to hire another firm, the so-called Labor Relations Institute to stall negotiations.

“These negotiations are stagnant, and it’s time for Cascades to seriously address them by returning to the table to negotiate,” said District 65 Directing Business Representative Ron Warner. “These workers deserve a fair contract now.”

WATCH: Niagara Falls union workers fighting for first contract Spectrum News Buffalo

Workers at Cascades have been standing together in their fight for a first contract, despite draconian efforts to divide the group. Workers have withstood a very aggressive anti-union campaign put on by the company that included permanent sub-contracting of their work, resulting in layoffs and drastically reducing the annual bonus by 20 percent.

“I understand they fired Jackson-Lewis,” said Eastern Territory General Vice President Jimmy Conigliaro Sr. “I thought they were the worst SOBs around, this company found somebody even worse! We’re not going to stand for it, this Executive Council is committed to fight side by side with our Brothers and Sisters at Cascades.”

READ: Cascades workers call for contract, two years after union vote The Buffalo News

“This failure to get a first contract is why we need national legislation, the Protecting the Right to Organize Act, also known as the PRO Act,” said IAM Headquarters General Vice President Brian Bryant. “The House of Representatives passed the PRO Act to give millions of American workers additional protections to organize and negotiate for better pay and benefits and a voice on the job.”

TAKE ACTION: Tell your U.S. Senators to Support the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act

“I knew it would be close, but I knew we could get the numbers, because there was a changing of the guard,” said Chief Steward Shawn Reed. “There were a lot of new guys, my son works here, and I knew they were ready for a change.”

NFFE-IAM PROTECTS WILDLAND FIREFIGHTER BOOT STIPEND: U.S. Forest Service employees who work in the field and fight fires have enjoyed a stipend to cover a portion of the cost of their safety boots; the culmination of a years-long fight led by NFFE-IAM’s Forest Service Council and its persistent leaders.

The benefit, articulated in Master Agreement, originally provided $300 every three years to subsidize the cost of the very expensive boots. In October 2020, the benefit increased to $500 and the three-year period for reimbursement was reset. 

“This is a real benefit for our members and one that wouldn’t exist without the efforts of our union and NFFE’s Forest Service Council,” said NFFE-IAM National President Randy Erwin. “The union fought hard to establish this important benefit, and we’ll fight just as hard to protect it.”

IAM DISTRICT 54 JOINS PRESIDENT BIDEN IN CLEVELAND TO PUSH FOR INFRASTRUCTURE, WORKER TRAINING INVESTMENTS: The IAM was on hand in Cleveland as President Biden brought his push for much-needed investments in worker training and infrastructure to Ohio. IAM District 54 President and Directing Business Representative T. Dean Wright Jr. and IAM District 54 Business Representative and Organizer Regina Wright joined the president for his speech at Cuyahoga Community College.

U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan (D-OH) and Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley also joined the president and the IAM in Cleveland.

President Biden delivered remarks on the country’s economic situation and urged support for both the American Jobs Plan and American Families Plan. The IAM staunchly supports both plans, which would move toward ending corporate tax incentives that move work offshore, help brings jobs back home and reinvest in building good, middle-class, union jobs.

“It’s beyond time that our country and leadership focuses on training the workforce,” said T. Dean Wright Jr. “President Biden has developed a plan to train, retool and bring our blue collar workforce into the 21st century. We look forward to the day when trade schools in Cleveland and Ohio are just as funded and valued as other public education institutions.”

Biden said it was time to stop giving breaks to large corporations and start supporting the U.S. workforce.

“A lot of companies have done extremely well in this crisis, and good for them,” said Biden. “The simple fact is, though, corporate profits are the highest they’ve been in decades. And workers’ pay is the lowest level it’s been in 70 years.”

 WATCH: Biden delivers remarks on the economy in Cleveland

IAM DISTRICT 837 URGES MISSOURI CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION SUPPORT FOR F/A-18E/F SUPER HORNET PROGRAM FUNDING: IAM District 837, which represents members at Boeing’s Integrated Defense Systems unit in Saint Louis who build the F-18 Super Hornet and the F-15EX, is calling on the Missouri Congressional Delegation to support funding for 12 F/A-18E/F Super Hornet aircraft in the upcoming Fiscal Year 2022 budget

“Missouri is a proud contributor to the F/A-18 Super Hornet program and to our national defense,” said IAM District 837 President/Directing Business Representative Tom Boelling. “At a time of uncertainty, the Super Hornet Program has helped keep our businesses alive, our workers employed, and our citizens safe. Funding for this critical program will help bring stability to our economies and build confidence in our continued safety.”

“IAM District 837 members continue to go the extra mile to provide our nation with some of the finest defense products,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Steve Galloway. “I am proud of this effort calling for increased funding of the Super Hornet for the Navy’s aviation fleet. This funding will support good union jobs to keep the production line moving to help keep our country safe. The Missouri economy benefits considerably from the products made by some of the best workers in the country.”

Read the letter here.

TELL CONGRESS TO PROTECT AIRLINE WORKERS AND CO-SPONSOR THE ‘FAIR AND OPEN SKIES ACT: The Machinist Union is urging Congress to co-sponsor legislation that would protect air travelers and workers in the airline industry from foreign carriers undercutting wages and safety standards.

IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr sent a letter to all members of the House of Representatives urging them to co-sponsor the bi-partisan “Fair and Open Skies Act” recently introduced by the Chair of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Peter DeFazio (D-OR) and Chair of the Subcommittee on Aviation Rick Larsen (D-WA).

TAKE ACTION: Tell Your Representative to Co-Sponsor the ‘Fair and Open Skies Act’

“We cannot let foreign carriers exploit the rules in place and undermine American workers and passengers,” said Martinez. “This pro-worker legislation would give DOT the authority it so desperately needs to protect fair wages and working conditions for American aviation workers while enhancing safety for the flying public.”

The “Fair and Open Skies Act” would prohibit the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) from issuing a new foreign air carrier permit for U.S. operations to any airline that exploits “flags of convenience” to avoid important employment, tax and safety regulations of its home country, or otherwise undermine labor standards.

Flag of convenience carriers are foreign air carriers established in a country other than the home country of its majority owner. This is done in order to avoid regulations of the home country, which undermines labor standards in the industry, and in the countries where the flag of convenience carrier operates.

“As travel begins to pick back up following the COVID-19 pandemic, this bipartisan bill will make sure that any foreign airlines looking to serve the United States play by the rules,” said Chair DeFazio. “In the past, we have seen foreign airlines set up under a flag of convenience business model to exploit weaker labor laws outside their home countries in order to save money, undercut competition, and skirt important labor standards to get a leg up. By preventing such an airline from serving the U.S., this bipartisan bill protects American jobs from predatory and unfair competition.”

TCU/IAM DEMANDS THAT UNION PACIFIC DO RIGHT BY ITS EMPLOYEES IN PALESTINE, TEXAS:  In a letter sent on behalf of its members in Palestine Texas, TCU/IAM urged U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and John Cornyn (R-TX), and U.S. Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) to pressure Union Pacific to honor wage protections and to safeguard employees soon eligible for retirement.

Click here to read the letter.

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Machinists Create Law to Organize Library Employees — Machinists Help Pro-Worker U.S. House Candidate Win — Unions Endorse INVEST in America Act

Oct 18, 2021 | Machinists On The Hill

MACHINISTS SUCCESSFULLY CREATE LAW TO ORGANIZE LIBRARY EMPLOYEES: Baltimore County Public Library (BCPL) employees achieved a significant victory this month as legislation passed authorizing nearly 600 employees to collectively bargain and join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). 

For almost two years, Baltimore County library staff has been trying to organize with the IAM. But since libraries are created by Maryland state law, state legislation had to be drafted and passed for this group of both full and part-time workers to be able to form a union. The IAM has worked side by side with Baltimore County Public Library employees and Maryland elected officials to help that become a reality.

State Sen. Shelly Hettleman and Del. Cathi Forbes sponsored the state legislation. The legislation goes into effect on July 1, 2021.

Employees cite healthcare benefits, transparency and communication from management as their top issues for unionizing.

“An IAM contract will give library staff a voice at work and the ability to negotiate fair wages and working conditions,” said Bridget Fitzgerald, IAM Grand Lodge Representative and lead organizer on the campaign. “A union contract will protect the best aspects of their jobs and provide a process to have input in improvements.”

Since the organizing effort began, an environment of supposed neutrality, and even claims of support by the Library system for the employee’s right to collectively bargain for a contract, gave way to the library Board of Trustees voting in February to hire lobbyists to advocate language that would have undermined the organizing process.

“The IAM is proud to be an instrumental part in helping these dedicated employees gain the right to organize and collectively bargain a union contract,” said IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes. “Through an IAM contract, hardworking Baltimore County Public Library employees will gain critical workplace protections.”

The next step in the campaign will be to hold a union representation election in September 2021 once the majority of workers sign cards to show support for the IAM.

CONGRESSMAN HIGGINS, IAM FIGHT FOR FIRST CONTRACT AT CASCADES: One day after a successful rally for workers outside Cascades Containerboard Packaging in Niagara Falls, N.Y., U.S. Rep. Brian Higgins (D-NY) wrote to the President of the company, urging him to “negotiate in good faith to reach an agreement expeditiously.”

In April 2019, more than 100 employees voted to join the Machinists Union. The National Labor Relations Board certified the results the next month. Yet, more than two years later, Cascades Containerboard has failed to negotiate more than a few minutes each day, violating the intent of the National Labor Relations Act.

It is highly unusual for companies to delay bargaining this long after NLRA-governed organizing campaigns.

“In the time between then and now, the COVID-19 pandemic brought the importance of workplace safety and worker empowerment into sharp focus,” Higgins wrote. He noted how Cascades Containerboard employees continued working throughout the pandemic, producing packaging materials that many depended upon through quarantine, physical distancing, and other restrictions.

“Through the most challenging of circumstances, they have demonstrated they are hardworking, dedicated, and deserving of a fair contract,” the letter continued.

“The IAM Executive Council is monitoring this situation closely and providing the necessary resources to achieve a first contract,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President Jimmy Conigliaro Sr. “We will stand by these workers’ side every day, every night, for as long as it takes to get a contract. Our union will join together and fight as we did for the last two years. The only way we’re going to get through this is together.”

“Cascades employees deserve a contract,” said District 65 Directing Business Representative Ron Warner. “Rep. Higgins has been a champion for workers, and lending support to our efforts is a huge boost for workers at Cascades. It’s been two years now. The members are not intimidated by these antics. They stood up to a very aggressive anti-union campaign put on by the company and won their election. The workers continue to stand strong and stay committed to obtaining a first contract.”

The workers are trying to gain respect and dignity on the job after years of internal non-negotiation, mismanagement, and outright disrespect.

MACHINISTS, COALITON OF UNIONS AND MANUFACTURERS URGE CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS TO PROTECT ROLLING STOCK PRODUCTION: The IAM was a signatory to a June 2, 2021 letter from a coalition of unions and manufacturers to key Senate and House leaders citing our continued support for the Transportation Infrastructure Vehicle Security Act (TIVSA). TIVSA was enacted into law in 2019 as a direct response to alarming national security and economic concerns with China’s state-owned and state-supported rolling stock manufacturers, and to oppose any attempts to undermine the TIVSA law.

“TIVSA prohibits federal dollars from being used to purchase rolling stock, such as rail cars and buses, from Chinese government-owned or controlled companies,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “We should not be using American tax dollars to buy trains made in China. We proudly represent workers at Alstom in Hornell, NY, who produce the best rolling stock in America and are ready and willing to meet our transit and passenger service needs. Congress must ensure that these products, which are critical to our infrastructure, are not compromised in any way. They must be manufactured by entities that make the interests of this nation and its skilled workforce a priority.”

“I encourage the continued support for the TIVSA,” said Richard Johnsen, Chief of Staff to the International President. “Our members produce high-quality U.S. rail cars and buses. American taxpayer dollars should be invested to create good unions jobs here while also increasing the American manufacturing footprint.” 

“We urge that you reject any attempts to weaken the TIVSA law,” wrote the coalition. “Instead, Congress should focus on closing TIVSA loopholes, including: 1) eliminating any further delay in TIVSA’s effective date; 2) correcting FTA’s flawed implementation that gives four U.S. cities a permanent exemption; 3) cracking down on circumvention; and 4) validating Buy America compliance…”

The complete letter can be read here.

Other signatories to the letter included the Transport Workers Union of America (TWU); United Steelworkers (USW); Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM); American Foundry Society (AFS); American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI); Rail Security Alliance (RSA); Railway Supply Institute (RSI); Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE); and the Steel Manufacturers Association (SMA).

NFFE-IAM APPLAUDS BIDEN-HARRIS BUDGET FOR FEDS: The Biden-Harris FY 2022 budget proposal included a 2.7% increase for federal employees and a mandate to raise the Wage Grade minimum wage to $15 an hour.  While NFFE-IAM supports the FAIR Act which proposes a 3.2% salary increase to help close the pay gap now at 28%, NFFE-IAM looks forward to continuing discussions in the coming months on pay and other priorities.  The budget proposal signified heavy support for collective bargaining, preserving integrity within the apolitical functions of government, and regenerating the good name of public service as a viable career option.  “This budget proposal demonstrates genuine support for the federal workforce,” stated NFFE-IAM National President Randy Erwin.  “It is a relief to have the backing of the White House especially after a long period of uncertainty caused by overcharged politics and a national pandemic.”

MACHINISTS HELP PRO-WORKER U.S. HOUSE CANDIDATE MELANIE STANSBURY WIN IN NEW MEXICO: Machinists Union members in New Mexico played a major role in bringing home a landslide victory for U.S. Rep.-elect Melanie Stansbury, who won by nearly 25 points in a special election to fill the former seat of U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland.

“While the labor movement will never have the big money so often used to sway political elections, we have something even stronger and that’s solidarity. The Machinists Union will always answer the call to support candidates who put the needs of America’s working families first,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Gary R. Allen. “I am so proud of the work that was done by IAM members Ernest Dow, Ashley Long, John Dyrz and others in New Mexico who helped to bring home a win for U.S. Rep.-elect Melanie Stansbury. Their dedication to making sure the leaders of New Mexico are good for the hardworking men and women of this state is what sets our union apart and paves the way for the future.”

The New Mexico State Council of Machinists, led by IAM’s Ernest “Red” Dow, a 41-year member of the Machinist Union, who played a big part in getting the word out on Stansbury’s record. Running on a platform of creating an economy that works for New Mexico’s working families, the IAM lent support by knocking on doors and phone banking on behalf of Stansbury.

“Union members will listen to other union members,” said Dow. “They may not agree or have the same political affiliation, but they will listen. We use that opportunity to educate them on candidates, like Stansbury, who are in tune with the values of working people and their families.”

“When Machinists don’t show up to door knock or make calls or pound the pavement for the candidates who stand with labor, the labor movement loses a lot,” said Machinists Union member Ashley Long who is the secretary-treasurer of the New Mexico State Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO. “We have to support worker-friendly candidates like Stansbury who will always vote to help working families. Our livelihoods depend on it.”

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) congratulated Stansbury on her strong win, saying this election was a top priority.

“Melanie Stansbury’s resounding victory tonight is a testament to her strong ties to her community and Democrats’ momentum to continue taking bold actions For The People,” said Pelosi. “A proud daughter of New Mexico, the Congresswoman-elect ran a disciplined campaign focused on improving the health care, education, and economic well-being of families across the state.”

IAM, LABOR UNION COALITION, RAIL UNIONS VOICE SUPPORT FOR INVEST IN AMERICA ACT: The IAM and a coalition of labor unions sent a letter voicing their support for the INVEST in America Act (H.R. 3684).

Rail labor organizations, including the IAM also wrote a letter to members of the U.S. House of Representatives expressing strong support for the INVEST in America Act.

U.S. Reps. Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) Donald Payne Jr. (D-NJ) introduced the five-year surface transportation bill that directs federal investments in roads, bridges, transit, and rail. This legislation will improve safety, create thousands of good-paying jobs, and secure a future with a vibrant freight and passenger rail industry.

The letter echoed support for the expansion of Buy America to include construction materials for highway projects and a strong commitment to American manufacturing and American workers.  

“American workers, both union and non-union, want to provide the necessary domestic materials for infrastructure and construction while allowing reasonable waiver flexibility to ensure that we maximize domestic supply chains and build back better,” wrote the union coalition. “Sectors such as steel, concrete, asphalt, aggregates, and others throughout the transportation supply chain are highly unionized and support highly unionized and support high road, family-sustaining jobs. We urge you to continue your support for Buy America.”

“This legislation will bolster our infrastructure and provide needed investment in our passenger and freight rail,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “Thanks to the leadership of Chairs DeFazio, Norton, and Payne for moving this vital legislation out of committee. This bill will allow our nation’s transit, freight, and passenger rail sectors to expand to meet the increasing demand. We look forward to working to gain the support of other members of Congress to make this legislation a reality.”  

“The Committee’s passing of this Act is a great step towards protecting and securing the livelihoods of our rail members,” said Richard Johnsen, Chief of Staff to the International President. “We must keep pressuring Congress to pass this much-needed legislation which will help ensure the future viability of the rail industry.” 

“The benefits of transformative investments in our infrastructure are far-ranging: we can create and sustain good-paying jobs, many of which don’t require a college degree, restore our global competitiveness, tackle climate change head-on, and improve the lives of all Americans through modern infrastructure that emphasizes mobility and access, and spurs our country’s long-term economic growth,” said Chair DeFazio. 

“As chair of the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, I believe the country today requires a new and more comprehensive approach well beyond our prior bills,” said Chair Norton. 

“The INVEST in America Act will bring America’s aging rail infrastructure into the 21st century,” said Chairman Payne. 

The bill includes investments of $109 billion in transit and $95 billion in passenger and freight rail, including historic funding levels for Amtrak and its operational and capital needs. It supports the growth of new rail operations, including high-speed rail.

Read both letters of support: letter and letter.

U.S. SECRETARIES WALSH AND RAIMONONDO VISIT IAM MEMBERS AT GENERAL DYNAMICS ELECTRIC BOAT: U.S. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh and U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo recently visited Machinists Union members at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, CT. The cabinet officials witnessed firsthand how federal registered apprenticeship programs have strengthened eastern Connecticut’s manufacturing workforce.

The U.S. Secretaries, who were part of a group led by U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT), went on a tour of the busy shipyard and discussed how Electric Boat has utilized federal registered apprenticeship programs like the Eastern Connecticut Manufacturing Pipeline Initiative (MPI) to help train and grow their workforce.

“I want to thank Congressman Courtney for facilitating the visit of U.S. Secretaries Walsh and Raimondo to meet our members at Electric Boat,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President Jimmy Conigliaro Sr. “The IAM is grateful for their continued support of legislation like the MPI that will help provide jobs for future generations of Machinists.”

“We are very fortunate to have a congressional delegation here in Connecticut and also the Secretaries of Labor and Commerce that see the value in supporting programs like apprenticeships,” said IAM District 26 Directing Business Representative Mike Stone. “These programs further our members’ education and, in turn, make for a smarter, stronger workforce to perform the work our companies do such as the growing submarine construction programs at Electric Boat, currently and into the future.”

The National Apprenticeship Act of 2021 would expand access to Registered Apprenticeships, youth apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeship programs. It would also yield a projected $10.6 billion in net benefits to U.S. taxpayers in the form of increased tax revenue and decreased spending on public-assistance programs and unemployment insurance.

TCU/IAM AND OTHER RAIL UNIONS ENDORSE THE INVEST IN AMERICA ACT: TCU/IAM joined with other Rail Labor Unions to express strong support for H.R. 3684, the INVEST in America Act. This legislation would have a transformative impact across the rail industry and the nation, benefiting rail workers, consumers, travelers, and the broader economy.

Click here to view the letter.

MACHINISTS APPLAUD TEXAS LAWMAKERS PUSHING BACK ON HARMFUL VOTER SUPPRESSION LEGISLATION: Texas state lawmakers staged a mass walkout over Memorial Day weekend to protest voter suppression legislation introduced by radical-right lawmakers. The legislation, designed to strip individuals of their voting rights, has been labeled as one of the most restrictive anti-voter bills in the nation.

More than 60 progressive politicians poured out of the state capitol building on Sunday evening, a move that delayed the passage of what many call “Jim Crow 2.0-styled” voter suppression.

“This attempt to pass draconian voter-suppression legislation is a slap in the face to democracy,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “The right to vote is sacred, and any attempt to derail that is un-American.”

Senate Bill 7, voter suppression legislation, would make it easier for judges to overturn elections and end drive-thru and 24-hour voting. It would also add stringent ID requirements and end Sunday morning voting, a timeslot often used by African-American churches who encourage members to vote during that time of day.

By walking out, lawmakers opposing the legislation defeated the bill. Their absence left the House without a quorum, which requires two-thirds of the 150 House members to be present, needed to take a vote. The fight is not over as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has signaled that he intends to call for a special session to allow lawmakers to approve the legislation.

“We applaud the Texas lawmakers for defeating this harmful legislation, but we know that the radical elected officials will not stop until they pass voter suppression legislation in the state of Texas,” said Martinez.

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