Bargaining Update – Day 9

     Firstly, we would like to apologize for not getting an update out to you last night. We ran the clock on our discussions with the company and ourselves to try and procure a contract worth fighting for. 

     Yesterday was a very busy day, and we have a feeling that today will be just as long. 

     Before we begin the updates, we wanted to give a small public service announcement for those that are worried about our grace period, or other proposals that have been posted: The new language for the contract will only take effect upon voting to ratify. That is something that you, the membership, have the power to control. Until you vote to ratify the agreement, you don't need to worry about anything taking effect. 

     With that out of the way, what were some things that happened at the table today? 

     We passed our entire economic proposal to the company yesterday morning. There were a lot of discussions on how to make this as best to present as possible. 

This package included not only our economic pass, but our Health and Safety proposal and some additional benefits to our job descriptions. 

     We received the Company's pass back with an overwhelming amount of rejected and modified language. We can't say it really surprised us that the Company countered with astronomically low numbers. 

     Unfortunately, we fought it time after time after time, but the company has put their foot down on flex time. We don't see any other way we can reword it, or reframe it, or replace it. We unfortunately have to let it go, so we can focus more on the things they are willing to negotiate on. 

     Veteran's Day is something we are passionate about. We care deeply about those who went into service. There are a lot of you who wanted Veteran's Day to be included in our list of holidays. Us as well. Which is why we pushed for it to be included on our initial pass. The company rejected our initial offer. We believe this sheds light on how the company truly feels about the war fighter. 

     We're staying strong and focused despite this week being as challenging as it is. It will be a hard fought battle, but one we're willing to fight to take back to you. We'll continue to aim high! The company hasn't broken our spirits yet. Not when we have the massive backing and support that you all give us daily. We greatly appreciate every one of you!

In solidarity,

Your Local 1821 Bargaining Team