The Week That Was

Not a lot of EFCA stories this week as Congress heads into the healthcare debate with full steam ahead. But, speaking of the healthcare bills: unions are making their voice heard that they want a bill with the public option and do not find the Baucus bill acceptable. I have received an average of three e-mails a day from the AFL-CIO talking about healthcare reform- but can’t remember the last time they sent out something related specifically to unions.

If You Like EFCA, You’ll Love…

That doesn’t mean the AFL-CIO hasn’t been busy trying to change labor laws. No, I am not talking about EFCA but a part of the Railway Labor Act they don’t think too highly of. Under the 75 year old law, a majority of the workers must vote in support of the union. The AFL-CIO wants a “minority rule” which requires only a majority of those voting (similar to rules under FLSA). Of course, the timing is great for the AFL-CIO as Delta heads into two union elections as a result of their merger with Northwest. Remember, Delta flight attendants lost a union election last year- I imagine the union doesn’t want to see that again and is calling on Obama to bail them out.

What About Decertification?

In response to this request, the Air Transport Association is asking that they make rules to decertify a union easier should they make certification easier. Will the National Mediation Board support the union’s cause but not approve the decert proposal?

Boeing Headed South?

The state of Washington is nervously watching what Boeing will do after there South Carolina plant voted to oust the Machinist union that is still in full force at the Everett location. Boeing wants a no-strike guarantee from the IAM but hasn’t received it, and the governor has avoided the issue.

When You Strike…

Ottawa (IL) High School teachers are currently on strike, but they may be out of a job longer then they bargained for. The school district has the authority under the law to fire the striking teachers and hire permanent replacements. The school board president has said they have not thought about this yet, but will do so should the strike continue to drag on.

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