News

Protecting our Members’ Jobs: IAM, NFFE-IAM Join Labor Coalition in New Lawsuit Over Illegal Gutting of Federal Workforce

The IAM Union and the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) joined a coalition of labor unions in filing a lawsuit against the Trump Administration’s orders to gut the federal workforce. The complaint challenges the firing of probationary employees, the deferred resignation ploy to pressure employees to voluntarily resign, and large-scale reductions-in-force (RIFs) that violate The post Protecting our Members’ Jobs: IAM, NFFE-IAM Join Labor Coalition in New Lawsuit Over Illegal Gutting of Federal Workforce appeared first on IAMAW.Continue reading

2-11-25 PVO Pilot MOU – Lansing MI

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE AND THE AMERICAN POSTAL WORKERS UNION, AFL-CIO Re: Pilot - Tractor Trailer Operator and Postal Vehicle Operator Position - Expansion - Lansing, Michigan The parties agree to expand piloting the establishment of the career bargaining unit position titled, Postal Vehicle Operator (PVO), Level 6. The parties have agreed to the job description and qualification standards for the PVO position that will be in effect during the pilot and any additional sites where this concept is determined to be feasible for expansion. The parties have also agreed to include Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO) Level 8 assignments into this Pilot. The PVO position is intended to assign the Motor Vehicle Service (MVS) Craft to perform the transportation of bulk quantities of mail without driving a vehicle that requires a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). All other work rules remain in effect, including the prohibitions of supervisors performing bargaining unit work consistent with Article 1.6.b. except where explicitly changed by this agreement. The following provisions will apply to the pilot: 1. The positions will be established in the Lansing, Michigan area, which is currently designated as a non-Postal Vehicle Service (PVS) site. 2. The Postal Service will establish and fill a minimum of 12 Tractor Trailor Operator (TTO) positions; and I PVO positions, consisting of 600/o Full Time Regular (FTR) and 40o/o Part Time Flexible (PTF) in the Lansing, Michigan area. For the FTR positions, the rounding up rule of .5 will apply After six (6) months, the parties will review the FTR/PTF ratio to ensure those ratios are proper for the work being performed. 3. The PVO positions will be posted internally According to Article 39 for non-CDL APWU career employees to bid. The senior internal bidders will be placed in a "pending qualification" status until the employees have been certified by the Driver Safety Instructor. These career PVO positions will also be posted externally, during which noncareer employees may apply. 4. Employees holding fulltime TTO and PVO positions will initially be considered unassigned regular employees and will be assigned schedules in accordance with Article 39. Full time unassigned regular employees assume, as their regular work schedule, the hours worked in the first week of the pay period in which the change to unassigned regular occurred. The posting of the TTO and PVO bid duty assignments will occur 90 days from implementation of PVS services. 5. The PTF to FTR ratios will be maintained throughout the Pilot, additional conversions to Full Time Flexible (FTF) will be according to the Maximization/Full Time Flexible MOU. 6. Full-time TTO and PVO duty assignments will be as follows: Normally eight (8) hours within nine (9) hours; and, A workday of eight (8) hours within ten (10) hours may be appropriate when eight-hour schedules contain report to a dispatcher time or idle time or where an additional trip is not possible due to time restraints in the middle or nearing the end of tour. 7. Employees holding a PTF TTO and PVO positions will be guaranteed a minimum work schedule of 24 hours per service week. 8. Within 30 days of the initiation the Pilot, the Postal Service will solicit volunteers, and will make available the required training to obtain a CDL for interested PVO employees who volunteer to be trained. A copy of the solicitation, and the PVO training records will be maintained for the Union to review. 9. Following successful completion of the CDL training and receipt of a CDL, employees holding PVO positions will be considered qualified to bid for available Motor Vehicle Operator (MVO) and/or Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO) positions. The assignments shall be posted and awarded in accordance with the provisions of Article 39 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. 10. During the pilot, there will be a one (1) year lock-in period for PVOs who were provided CDL training by the Postal Service, for placement in the MVO or TTO position, during which the following restrictions will apply: employee must remain in the MVS Craft; employee must remain in the Lansing, Michigan, installation, and; employee is restricted from bidding to a lower-level position. The Pilot expansion associated with this agreement will run for six months after the pilot is fully implemented, unless it is mutually agreed to extend. The national parties will meet monthly and exchange data and review results of the Pilot, to include the possibility of the percentages of PTF employees where it is economically and operationally feasible. The national parties agree to review the effectiveness of the training program including the retention of MVOs trained as TTOs and make adjustments, if necessary. Modifications made to work rules as stated in this MOU will not be citable in any future proceedings. An Alternative Dispute Resolution Process will be established at the National Level for the handling of any alleged violations of this Pilot MOU. Shannon Richardson                                                                    Michael Foster Director, Contract Administration (APWU)                                    Director, Motor Vehicle Service Division Labor Relations                                                                             American Postal Workers Union United States Postal Service                                                         AFL-CIO The parties agree to expand piloting the establishment of the career bargaining unit position titled, Postal Vehicle Operator (PVO), Level 6. The parties have agreed to the job description and qualification standards for the PVO position that will be in effect during the pilot and any additional sites where this concept is determined to be feasible for expansion. The parties have also agreed to include Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO) Level I assignments into this Pilot.Tuesday, February 11, 2025No Pilot MOU https://d1ocufyfjsc14h.cloudfront.net/sites/default/files/2-11-25_pvo_pilot_mou_-_lansing-_mi.pdf Craft:  Motor Vehicle Service Document Type:  Memorandum of Understanding0Continue reading

2-11-25 PVO Pilot MOU – Mid Florida FL

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE AND THE AMERICAN POSTAL WORKERS UNION, AFL-CIO Re: Pilot - Tractor Trailer Operator and Postal Vehicle Operator Position - Expansion - Santa Barbara, California The parties agree to expand piloting the establishment of the career bargaining unit position titled, Postal Vehicle Operator (PVO), Level 6. The parties have agreed to the job description and qualification standards for the PVO position that will be in effect during the pilot and any additional sites where this concept is determined to be feasible for expansion. The parties have also agreed to include Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO) Level 8 assignments into this Pilot. The PVO position is intended to assign the Motor Vehicle Service (MVS) Craft to perform the transportation of bulk quantities of mail without driving a vehicle that requires a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). All other work rules remain in effect, including the prohibitions of supervisors performing bargaining unit work consistent with Article 1.6.b. except where explicitly changed by this agreement. The following provisions will apply to the pilot: 1. The positions will be established in the Mid Florida, Florida area, which is currently designated as a non-Postal Vehicle Service (PVS) site. 2. The Postal Service will establish and fill a minimum of 25 Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO) positions; and 30 PVO positlons, consisting of 60% Full Time Regular (FTR) and 40% Part Time Flexible (PTF) in the Mid Florida, Florida area. For the FTR positions, the rounding up rule of .5 shall apply. After six (6) months, the parties will review the FTR/PTF ratio to ensure they accurately reflect the efficiency of the work being performed. 3. The PVO positions will be posted internally according to Article 39 for non-CDL APWU career employees to bid. The senior internal bidders will be placed in a "pending qualification" status until the employees have been certified by the Driver Safety lnstructor. These career PVO positions willalso be posted externally, during which noncareer employees may apply. 4. Employees holding fulltime TTO and PVO positions will initially be considered unassigned regular employees and will be assigned schedules in accordance with Article 39. Full time unassigned regular employees assume, as their regular work schedule, the hours worked in the first week of the pay period in which the change to unassigned regular occurred. The posting of the TTO and PVO bid duty assignments will occur 90 days from implementation of PVS services. 5. The PTF to FTR ratios will be maintained throughout the Pilot, additional conversions to Full Time Flexible (FTF) will be according to the Maximization/Full Time Flexible MOU. 6. Full-time TTO and PVO duty assignments will be as follows: Normally eight (8) hours within nine (9) hours; and, A workday of eight (8) hours within ten (10) hours may be appropriate when eight-hour schedules contain report to a dispatcher time or idle time or where an additional trip is not possible due to time restraints in the middle or nearing the end of tour. 7. Employees holding a PTF TTO and PVO positions will be guaranteed a minimum work schedule of 24 hours per service week. 8. Within 30 days of the initiation the Pilot, the Postal Service will solicit volunteers, and will make available the required training to obtain a CDL for interested PVO employees who volunteer to be trained. A copy of the solicitation, and the PVO training records will be maintained for the Union to review. 9. Following successful completion of the CDL training and receipt of a CDL, employees holding PVO positions will be considered qualified to bid for available Motor Vehicle Operator (MVO) and/or Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO) positions. The assignments shall be posted and awarded in accordance with the provisions of Article 39 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. 10. During the pilot, there will be a one (1) year lock-in period for PVOs who were provided CDL training by the Postal Service, for placement in the MVO or TTO position, during which the following restrictions will apply: employee must remain in the MVS Craft; employee must remain in the Santa Barbara, California, installation, and; employee is restricted from bidding to a lower-level position. The Pilot expansion associated with this agreement will run for six months after the pilot is fully implemented, unless it is mutually agreed to extend. The national parties will meet monthly and exchange data and review results of the Pilot, to include the possibility of the percentages of PTF employees where it is economically and operationally feasible. The national parties agree to review the effectiveness of the training program including the retention of MVOs trained as TTOs and make adjustments, if necessary. Modifications made to work rules as stated in this MOU will not be citable in any future proceedings. An Alternative Dispute Resolution Process will be established at the National Level for the handling of any alleged violations of this Pilot MOU. Shannon Richardson                                                                    Michael Foster Director, Contract Administration (APWU)                                    Director, Motor Vehicle Service Division Labor Relations                                                                             American Postal Workers Union United States Postal Service                                                         AFL-CIO The parties agree to expand piloting the establishment of the career bargaining unit position titled, Postal Vehicle Operator (PVO), Level 6. The parties have agreed to the job description and qualification standards for the PVO position that will be in effect during the pilot and any additional sites where this concept is determined to be feasible for expansion. The parties have also agreed to include Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO) Level 8 assignments into this Pilot.Tuesday, February 11, 2025No Pilot MOU https://d1ocufyfjsc14h.cloudfront.net/sites/default/files/2-11-25_pvo_pilot_mou_-_mid_florida-_fl.pdf Craft:  Motor Vehicle Service Document Type:  Memorandum of Understanding0Continue reading

2-11-25 PVO Pilot MOU – Santa Barbara CA

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE AND THE AMERICAN POSTAL WORKERS UNION, AFL-CIO Re: Pilot - Tractor Trailer Operator and Postal Vehicle Operator Position - Expansion - Santa Barbara, California The parties agree to expand piloting the establishment of the career bargaining unit position titled, Postal Vehicle Operator (PVO), Level 6. The parties have agreed to the job description and qualification standards for the PVO position that will be in effect during the pilot and any additional sites where this concept is determined to be feasible for expansion. The parties have also agreed to include Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO) Level 8 assignments into this Pilot. The PVO position is intended to assign the Motor Vehicle Service (MVS) Craft to perform the transportation of bulk quantities of mail without driving a vehicle that requires a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). All other work rules remain in effect, including the prohibitions of supervisors performing bargaining unit work consistent with Article 1.6.b. except where explicitly changed by this agreement. The following provisions will apply to the pilot: 1. The positions will be established in the Santa Barbara, California area, which is currently designated as a non-Postal Vehicle Service (PVS) site. 2. The Postal Service will establish and fill a minimum of 15 Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO) positions; and 10 PVO positions, consisting of 65% Full Time Regular (FTR) and 35% Part Time Flexible (PTF) in the Santa Barbara area. For the FTR positions, the rounding up rule of .5 shall apply. After six (6) months, the parties will review the FTR/PTF ratio to ensure they accurately reflect the efficiency of the work being performed. 3. The PVO positions will be posted internally According to Article 39 for non-CDL APWU career employees to bid. The senior internal bidders will be placed in a "pending qualification" status until the employees have been certified by the Driver Safety Instructor. These career PVO positions will also be posted externally, during which noncareer employees may apply. 4. Employees holding fulltime TTO and PVO positions will initially be considered unassigned regular employees and will be assigned schedules in accordance with Article 39. Full time unassigned regular employees assume, as their regular work schedule, the hours worked in the first week of the pay period in which the change to unassigned regular occurred. The posting of the TTO and PVO bid duty assignments will occur 90 days from implementation of PVS services. 5. The PTF to FTR ratios will be maintained throughout the Pilot, additional conversions to Full Time Flexible (FTF) will be according to the Maximization/Full Time Flexible MOU. 6. Full-time TTO and PVO duty assignments will be as follows: Normally eight (8) hours within nine (9) hours; and, A workday of eight (8) hours within ten (10) hours may be appropriate when eight-hour schedules contain report to a dispatcher time or idle time or where an additional trip is not possible due to time restraints in the middle or nearing the end of tour. 7. Employees holding a PTF TTO and PVO positions will be guaranteed a minimum work schedule of 24 hours per service week. 8. Within 30 days of the initiation the Pilot, the Postal Service will solicit volunteers, and will make available the required training to obtain a CDL for interested PVO employees who volunteer to be trained. A copy of the solicitation, and the PVO training records will be maintained for the Union to review. 9. Following successful completion of the CDL training and receipt of a CDL, employees holding PVO positions will be considered qualified to bid for available Motor Vehicle Operator (MVO) and/or Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO) positions. The assignments shall be posted and awarded in accordance with the provisions of Article 39 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. 10. During the pilot, there will be a one (1) year lock-in period for PVOs who were provided CDL training by the Postal Service, for placement in the MVO or TTO position, during which the following restrictions will apply: employee must remain in the MVS Craft; employee must remain in the Santa Barbara, California, installation, and; employee is restricted from bidding to a lower-level position. The Pilot expansion associated with this agreement will run for six months after the pilot is fully implemented, unless it is mutually agreed to extend. The national parties will meet monthly and exchange data and review results of the Pilot, to include the possibility of the percentages of PTF employees where it is economically and operationally feasible. The national parties agree to review the effectiveness of the training program including the retention of MVOs trained as TTOs and make adjustments, if necessary. Modifications made to work rules as stated in this MOU will not be citable in any future proceedings. An Alternative Dispute Resolution Process will be established at the National Level for the handling of any alleged violations of this Pilot MOU. Shannon Richardson                                                                    Michael Foster Director, Contract Administration (APWU)                                    Director, Motor Vehicle Service Division Labor Relations                                                                             American Postal Workers Union United States Postal Service                                                         AFL-CIO The parties agree to expand piloting the establishment of the career bargaining unit position titled, Postal Vehicle Operator (PVO), Level 6. The parties have agreed to the job description and qualification standards for the PVO position that will be in effect during the pilot and any additional sites where this concept is determined to be feasible for expansion. The parties have also agreed to include Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO) Level 8 assignments into this Pilot.Wednesday, February 12, 2025No Pilot MOU https://d1ocufyfjsc14h.cloudfront.net/sites/default/files/2-11-25_pvo_pilot_mou_-_santa_barbara-_ca.pdf Craft:  Motor Vehicle Service Document Type:  Memorandum of Understanding0Continue reading

United to Defend Our Rights Against Financial Abuse

February 13, 2025On Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, Donald Trump’s newly appointed head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and Project 2025 co-author Russell Vought announced that he had shuttered the agency’s headquarters in Washington, DC. He instructed employees by email to not come into the office Monday and to cease work, bringing their efforts to protect consumers from fraud, scams, and financial abuse in the banking industry to a standstill. The announcements follow a Feb. 7 post by Elon Musk on his social media platform X, which stated “CFPB RIP.” public servicesPostal Banking On Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, Donald Trump’s newly appointed head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and Project 2025 co-author Russell Vought announced that he had shuttered the agency’s headquarters in Washington, DC. He instructed employees by email to not come into the office Monday and to cease work, bringing their efforts to protect consumers from fraud, scams, and financial abuse in the banking industry to a standstill. The announcements follow a Feb. 7 post by Elon Musk on his social media platform X, which stated “CFPB RIP.” The CFPB was created by Congress in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, which the banking industry caused, and is the latest target of Elon Musk’s so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) that is working to eliminate oversight by federal agencies. The CFPB regulates mortgages, student loans, credit cards, payday lenders, and other financial instruments that are central to household finances. “Vought is giving big banks and giant corporations the green light to scam families,” said Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) in a social media post over the weekend. “The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has returned over $21 billion to families cheated by Wall Street." DOGE representatives have already accessed internal systems and data at the CFPB. The National Treasury Employees Union, which represents nearly 2,000 workers at the CFPB, filed several lawsuits on Sunday in response to Vought and Musk’s actions. The first lawsuit seeks to block the agency’s shutdown so that it can continue its work to protect consumers, while a second suit aims to stop DOGE from accessing its members’ employee records and information, alleging the administration is violating the Privacy Act. On Monday, Feb. 10, 2025, APWU representatives and staff attended a rally at CFPB headquarters to demonstrate against this hostile takeover of yet another government agency, and to keep the CFPB working for working people, not billionaires. Effects of Killing off the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Eliminating the CFPB is a key commitment in Project 2025. Since its creation, the big banks and lenders on Wall Street have bristled against increased regulation and oversight brought on by the CFPB. In 2024, opponents of the CFPB brought a lawsuit to the Supreme Court, hoping to overturn the funding mechanism for the Bureau. While their lawsuit failed, the new Trump Administration could present their best chance yet to kill the CFPB. Currently, the architects of Project 2025 are attempting to abolish the CFPB and in DOGE’s latest actions, hope to overturn many of the regulations that emerged after the 2008 financial crisis. Doing so would make everyone more vulnerable to predatory practices of banks, credit card companies, and other lenders. There are a number of lawsuits the CFPB brought against some of the country’s biggest financial institutions in 2024, such as Capital One, Walmart, JP Morgan, Bank of America, among others, that are now in doubt, as the new Administration has overhauled the Bureau’s leadership and halted its operations. Project 2025 also has proposals that would affect the way the Federal Reserve functions. While some of these would reduce compliance issues for banks – a gift to Wall Street – others would make it more difficult and expensive for banks to access funding. In turn, consumer borrowing could be more expensive, despite commitments from the authors to use the tools of government to drive down prices. In this moment, we must stay united in our fight to defend our rights to be protected from financial abuse and keep building the movement to bring public options like postal banking to the world of finance. United to Defend Our Rights Against Financial AbuseConsumer Financial Protection Bureau Latest Federal Agency Under Attack0Continue reading

New I.A.M. C.R.E.S.T. Associate Instructors Complete Train-the-Trainer Program

Fifteen new I.A.M. C.R.E.S.T. Associate Instructors from District 19, Local S6, District FD1, and other Norfolk Southern Railroad representatives recently completed the Train-the-Trainer program. This comprehensive training is specifically designed to equip workers with the skills needed to educate their peers on the hazards associated with the storage, shipment, loading, and unloading of dangerous goods The post New I.A.M. C.R.E.S.T. Associate Instructors Complete Train-the-Trainer Program appeared first on IAMAW.Continue reading

Black History Month Profiles: Chancelle Mulela

Black History Month Profiles: Chancelle Mulela For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Chancelle Mulela of the Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).Chancelle Mulela has been an IATSE Local 634 member for two years, working as a make-up artist. She has been a guest speaker with Reel Canada, a nonprofit organization based in Toronto dedicated to the presentation of Canadian films in Canadian schools, and encourages students to consider a career in film. She actively serves on Local 634’s DEI Committee and is currently working on establishing a young workers committee for the local.  Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 02/13/2025 - 10:18Continue reading

APWU, Unions Rally with AFGE to ‘Save Our Civil Service’

February 12, 2025In a massive show of solidarity, AFL-CIO affiliated unions, Congressional allies, and federal workers gathered on Feb. 11 at Upper Senate Park in a rally to “Save Our Civil Service,” hosted by American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) amid attacks by President Trump on federal workers through a series of Executive Orders. Labor Solidarity In a massive show of solidarity, a crowd of hundreds of federal workers, AFL-CIO affiliated union members, and Congressional allies gathered on Feb. 11 at Upper Senate Park to rally to “Save Our Civil Service.” Hosted by American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) amid attacks by President Trump on federal workers through a series of Executive Orders, the event highlighted the solidarity of working people for the great career  Upon taking office, President Trump established the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by billionaire Elon Musk, to modernize “Federal technology and software to maximize governmental efficiency and technology and productivity.” Since its creation, federal workers have seen their job security diminish. The reinstatement of Trump’s 2020 “Schedule F,” renamed Schedule Policy/Career, order allowed officials in his administration to reclassify many civil servants into at-will employees. President Trump could then install whomever he pleases based on favoritism and loyalty to his campaign. The president also signed an order ending remote work and telework for federal employees, forcing them to choose between resuming work in-person at the office, or signing a memo to voluntarily resign by the end of the 2025 fiscal year. These executive orders only hurt the American people who rely on federal services like social security and medicare, and allows Trump to replace dedicated civil servants with cronies based on political agendas and favoritism, not merit. Cronyism, or the appointment of friends and associates to positions of power without proper regard to their qualifications, is dangerous and undermines the nature of civil service. The civil service designation is to promote workers who expertly serve the communities they represent and keep services consistent despite the party in power. As attacks continue towards federal workers, billionaires like Trump and Musk want to restructure the government for capitalistic gains, instead of uplifting workers and our communities. We must stand strong with our AFGE siblings – their fight is our fight. Let's protect the integrity of the workforce, preserve the public’s trust and hold union strong to save America’s public services. In a massive show of solidarity, AFL-CIO affiliated unions, Congressional allies, and federal workers gathered on Feb. 11 at Upper Senate Park in a rally to “Save Our Civil Service,” hosted by American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) amid attacks by President Trump on federal workers through a series of Executive Orders.0Continue reading

IAM Reaches Historic Milestone for Veterans, Becomes First Labor Union Recognized as VSO

For the past two years, the IAM Veterans Services team has been traveling across the country, assisting and advocating on behalf of our veteran members. On Jan. 17, 2025, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) notified the IAM that the Veterans Services Program had reached their long and hard-fought goal. IAM is officially the The post IAM Reaches Historic Milestone for Veterans, Becomes First Labor Union Recognized as VSO appeared first on IAMAW.Continue reading

Worker Wins: “Standing Together for the Future of Our Profession”

Worker Wins: "Standing Together for the Future of Our Profession" Our latest roundup of worker wins includes numerous examples of working people organizing, bargaining and mobilizing for a better life. First Avenue Workers Ratify Collective Bargaining Agreement: UNITE HERE Local 17 members who work at Minneapolis’ legendary music venue First Avenue and its six Twin Cities sister clubs have unanimously ratified their first-ever contract. The 230-person bargaining unit covers service and event staff across the seven different locations—a majority of whom are non-tipped workers. UNITE HERE reported that the new contract includes major victories for staff like wage increases, longevity pay, improvements to scheduling practices, better safety policies, protections for LGBTQIA+ workers and more. “I’ve watched a lot of my best friends leave the club because the job wasn’t sustainable or they didn’t feel respected, but this contract makes a lot of steps to change that,” said First Avenue event staffer Kyle Tappe. “I’ve been pinching money at the end of the month for as long as I can remember, and the raises will make things significantly easier for me.”New York Magazine Walkout Averted as Union Secures Tentative Deal: Editorial staff at New York magazine—who are part of The NewsGuild of New York, CWA Local 31003—have successfully averted a strike after reaching a tentative agreement (TA) Friday with parent company Vox Media. Members of the New York Magazine Union, which include writers, editors, copy editors, fact-checkers, photo editors, designers and producers, will be voting on the TA later this month. The deal includes double-digit wage increases over the life of the contract, a ratification bonus, safeguards against the usage of artificial intelligence and more. “Guild members fought for new contract terms that reflect their commitment to building a newsroom that recognizes the value they bring to New York Magazine and Vox Media,” said Susan DeCarava, president of The NewsGuild of New York, in a press release. “Our New York Magazine Union members would not accept anything less than a fair contract that builds on the success of prior agreements and improves workplace terms and conditions. This contract more than achieves that goal.” PS Workers Win Recognition as Part of Vox Media Union: Editorial staff at PS (formerly Popsugar) have successfully won voluntary recognition from parent company Vox Media and are now members of the Vox Media Union, part of the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE). The 20-person newsroom stood together with the larger Vox Media Union bargaining unit on the first day of negotiations to demand that they too be covered under the contract. The union, which now includes PS workers, are fighting for fair wages that keep up with the rising cost of living, a commitment to diversity initiatives, artificial intelligence safeguards and enhanced protections in the event of layoffs. PS workers said in a press release: “This marks a significant step forward in our efforts. We are encouraged that the company has listened to our concerns and made the right decision by voluntarily recognizing PS as part of the Vox Media Union. We look forward to joining our colleagues across the organization and are optimistic about a productive bargaining season ahead.” UFCW Local 400 Secures Settlements Over Wage Theft and Discrimination: United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 400 has successfully won financial settlements from Union Kitchen and Mom's Organic Market on behalf of members who have been victims of wage theft and discrimination, respectively. At the ironically named Union Kitchen, Local 400 filed a lawsuit in March 2023 against the boutique convenience store chain and its owner for withholding tips left by customers in its Washington, D.C., stores that were intended for staff. The settlement included $133,333.34 for 79 impacted members and a requirement for Union Kitchen to pay the union’s attorneys’ fees. After staff at the Mom’s College Park, Maryland, location voted to join the UFCW, management sent an email announcing pay raises and other workplace improvements for all employees except those at the newly organized store. This was a violation of federal law, prompting Local 400 to file an unfair labor practice (ULP) charge, which resulted in a settlement of $17,302.67 to compensate 74 workers. “Our union is committed to protecting workers from unscrupulous bosses who are willing to violate their employees’ rights and break the law instead of properly compensating them for their hard work,” said Mark Federici, president of Local 400. “We’d like to thank the workers who took a stand and participated in this lawsuit for holding Union Kitchen accountable for its unlawful practices.” President Federici also said: “Given its reputation and purported values, we expected much better from MOM’s Organic Market, so we were especially disappointed that the company chose to violate the law and discriminate against its own employees. But no matter the employer, our union will always fight to protect our members’ rights and hold bosses accountable for breaking the law.”Nurses at 3 Portland Legacy Hospitals Win Union Election: Nearly 2,300 nurses across three Legacy Health facilities in Portland, Oregon, have voted to join the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). The decisive victories at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, Randall Children's Hospital and Good Samaritan Medical Center mean that workers are one step closer to being able to bargain over critical issues like patient care and safe staffing. This win comes as their fellow ONA members at Providence hospitals and medical centers across Oregon continue to fight for fair contracts that provide fair compensation and sustainable working conditions. “This victory is about nurses standing together for the future of our profession, our patients, and our hospitals,” said Sarah Zavala, an Emanuel nurse leader, in a press release. “We’re ready to build a strong contract that protects and empowers nurses so we can continue to provide the best care possible.”Denver Anti-Hunger Nonprofit Votes to Join Union: Workers at the nonprofit Metro Caring are celebrating their near-unanimous election to join the Denver Newspaper Guild, CWA Local 37074. Now organized under the name Metro Caring Workers United, a supermajority of the staff signed union authorization cards and requested voluntary recognition back in December 2024. The nonprofit was founded to help address food insecurity in the Denver-metro area and the staff who work there hope that by forming a union, they can better preserve the organization’s mission and sustain their critical work. “I’m incredibly proud to have been part of the Metro Caring Workers United team as we worked toward certification of our union with the NewsGuild-CWA,” said Lucor Jordan, a member of the MCWU Bargaining Committee and founding member of the union. “While I’ve never been part of a union before, throughout my working life I’ve received the benefit of the work that unions put in over past generations protecting workers and helping to provide a safe, dignified work environment. I’m now proud to be part of a new chapter in the non-profit sector.”UP Health System–Marquette Workers Ratify First Contract: After months of negotiations, United Steelworkers (USW) members who work for UP Health System–Marquette recently ratified their first union contract. The unit includes staff who work as licensed practical nurses (LPNs), care aides, lab assistants, payroll, IT, maintenance, office staff, and in other critical roles at the specialty care facility. Workers started organizing in 2023, with many expressing frustration with a decline in workplace satisfaction dating back to when the hospital was acquired by Duke LifePoint Healthcare in 2014. Contract wins include historic wage increases, higher on-call pay, capped annual health insurance premiums, improved safety protections and more. “UPHS Marquette is five blocks from my house,” said USW District 1 staff representative Bryan Fisher. “It’s the only Level 2 trauma center in the [Upper Peninsula] of Michigan. Our goal was always to attract and retain the best employees for Marquette residents. If I get taken to this hospital, these workers will care for me. I want a team of talented, fully-trained, well-compensated medical professionals administering care to our community.”UNITE HERE Fights to Pass Ordinance to Protect Job Security: UNITE HERE Local 1 members are celebrating a proposal that is advancing to the Evanston City Council that will give more job security to hospitality and food service contract workers at Northwestern University. The Worker Retention Ordinance would ensure that the essential workers who cook, clean and maintain the private research university will not be fired if their contractor is replaced. Just a few years ago, in 2018, hundreds of staff found their jobs in jeopardy when Northwestern replaced its food service operators with its current contractor, Compass Group. The city’s Human Services Committee unanimously approved moving the ordinance to council members on Wednesday after hearing testimony from several UNITE HERE members. “I’m proud to serve the Northwestern community. No matter who the contractor is, I deserve to continue working at the campus I have called home for so many years,” said Rosa Villaseñor, who has been a hospitality worker at Northwestern for 15 years.Lancaster Journalists Win Union Election: Journalists at LancasterOnline and the WITF public radio station voted to form a union this past Monday with The NewsGuild of Greater Philadelphia, Local 38010 of the Communications Workers of America (CWA). In 2023, the Steinman family, who owned LancasterOnline (LNP), gifted the news organization to the Harrisburg-based NPR affiliate, WITF. Workers planned to form a union after management laid off 10% of its staff one month after the new management took over. CEO Ron Hetrick had previously told news staff that the company wouldn’t reduce its workforce for five years. “When we approached the Guild in November, a lot of people were unhappy with recent changes in our leadership and in our newsroom,” said LNP investigative reporter Brett Sholtis. “But this quickly became about so much more than that. We want to make sure we’re able to keep serving the community. We all brought different things to the table, but we have been united in our belief that joining The NewsGuild is the very best way to ensure the future of news in Lancaster and central Pennsylvania for years to come.” Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/12/2025 - 13:01 Tags: OrganizingContinue reading

Hockey, Community, and Generosity: IAM Midwest Territory Raises Over $12,800 for GDA|TLC

IAM District 6, along with Local 388, Local 1010, and Local 1728, proudly sponsored a Quad City Storm minor-league hockey game in Moline, Ill., raising an impressive $12,800 for Guide Dogs of America/Tender Loving Canines (GDA|TLC). The sponsored game, held in November 2024, was an important occasion to honor military service members and veterans and show The post Hockey, Community, and Generosity: IAM Midwest Territory Raises Over $12,800 for GDA|TLC appeared first on IAMAW.Continue reading

The Time to Stand: What Working People Are Doing This Week

The Time to Stand: What Working People Are Doing This Week Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week. Actors' Equity:We are currently accepting nominations for the 2025 Paul Robeson Award! Know an individual or organization that best exemplifies and practices the principles and ideals of Paul Robeson, please submit nominations by Wednesday, February 26, 2025 - https://t.co/bYVtsxMzdE pic.twitter.com/jIZosDKRMh— Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) February 8, 2025AFGE:This is the time to STAND! Thank you for your continuous support @RevDrBarber. pic.twitter.com/xRb0K229J0— AFGE (@AFGENational) February 11, 2025AFSCME:HAPPENING NOW: We’re on Capitol Hill alongside@AFGENational, @NTEUnews, @TheNLRBU and union members to send a clear message to Elon Musk & DOGE — HANDS OFF public services! pic.twitter.com/reIhARICmt— AFSCME (@AFSCME) February 11, 2025Alliance for Retired Americans:Expanding Medicaid actually helps spur economic growth! https://t.co/8qd9WHhYRc— Alliance for Retired Americans (@ActiveRetirees) February 10, 2025Amalgamated Transit Union:Make your Valentine's Day Union-Made. #valentinesday #UnionMade pic.twitter.com/Q4sZhfnxMX— ATU, Transit Union (@ATUComm) February 11, 2025American Federation of Musicians:AFM Stands United -- Solidarity Across BordersThe American Federation of Musicians is proud to be a union that includes members in both Canada and the United States. Our strength is the solidarity between our two countries. We stand in opposition to any actions, whether from… pic.twitter.com/H4M84XoDfM— AFM (@The_AFM) February 5, 2025American Federation of Teachers:"We should not be fearful of the next generation. We should give them the support they need." Watch & share:@rweingarten joined @TheRevAl on @PoliticsNation to discuss Trump's attack on the Department of Education. https://t.co/8hSttwjgu4— AFT (@AFTunion) February 10, 2025American Postal Workers Union:In this latest podcast, President Dimondstein sat down with APWU leadership on a variety of topics: ▶️ Legislative/Political Director Judy Beard shares membership efforts that led to the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act; ▶️ Retirees Director Nancy Olumekor goes in… pic.twitter.com/UsbrysJGsA— The American Postal Workers Union - APWU (@APWUnational) February 10, 2025Association of Flight Attendants-CWA:Proud to stand with our @AFGENational Union siblings in keeping corporate greed and billionaires OUT of the federal workforce! #1u pic.twitter.com/8XE0tcTcYx— AFA-CWA (@afa_cwa) February 11, 2025Boilermakers:As we celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth, we examine the #Boilermakers history. Read the first in a series about the Boilermakers, race and auxiliary lodges https://t.co/TIpuGjbKXD pic.twitter.com/Ey3BI5B0Eh— Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) February 6, 2025Bricklayers:Trying to make college tuition cheaper? Apply for the US Bates Scholarship!The BAC annually awards three scholarships to students whose parents or step-parents are US BAC members. The stipends are $5,000 per year for up to four years.Full details here https://t.co/dEX5O569OY pic.twitter.com/wU2y21Gk0D— Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union (@IUBAC) February 11, 2025Communications Workers of America:Last month, CWA members and retirees across the country took time to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. For decades, CWAers have taken action to further the ideals of inclusivity and equity both within CWA and nationally. https://t.co/gqYUpcJcuK— CWA (@CWAUnion) February 9, 2025Department for Professional Employees:Watch Angela, an @OPEIU member at IRC discuss her experience talking to coworkers about forming a union pic.twitter.com/k6xqmHZTQx— Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) February 10, 2025Electrical Workers:For the 33rd time, #IBEW broadcast professionals will bring the #Superbowl to the nation. pic.twitter.com/dPov4hYeVc— IBEW (@IBEW) February 9, 2025Heat and Frost Insulators:A Lasting Legacy 🕊️Hear from members of Leadership, as we reflect on the life of Dr. Glenn Perušek's & his positive contributions to our Union.➡️Read now on pages 16-17 in the Winter Journal: https://t.co/dNNp9AID3m#InsulatorsUnion #Insulators #InsulatorPride pic.twitter.com/N4xJ84osSh— Insulators Union 🦎 (@InsulatorsUnion) February 7, 2025International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers:Matt Biggs, President of the IFPTE, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss pressing issues facing federal workers following the start of President Trump’s second term in office. https://t.co/UUv14tDn9e— IFPTE (@IFPTE) February 3, 2025Labor Council for Latin American Advancement:📣 This week, the LCLAA Twin Cities Chapter hosted a community event to informed our members, workers, and their families, about their rights and how to be prepared during this challenging times 💪 pic.twitter.com/sq4BtUbD1Q— LCLAA (@LCLAA) February 7, 2025Labor Heritage Foundation:LHT PodcastThe story of Carmelita Torres, the "Latina Rosa Parks,"https://t.co/n1iCoaillH pic.twitter.com/G4BJLA9N4i— Labor Heritage (@LaborHeritage1) February 9, 2025Laborers:#DYK? In 2023, #LIUNA members in Michigan took on #RightToWork and WON—bringing back prevailing wages for hardworking laborers!When we fight TOGETHER, we WIN. This is what we call union POWER in action! #FeelThePower #RTWisWRONG pic.twitter.com/1cW08YsMak— LIUNA (@LIUNA) February 11, 2025Machinists:Labor will always stand up and fight back when we, the people, are under attack. This is OUR government. We want it staffed and stable. We trust federal workers who dedicated their lives to civil service over a billionaire EVERY DAY. pic.twitter.com/XOWAhslrVK— Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) February 11, 2025Maritime Trades Department:Support for Domestic Maritime Evident in U.S. House Hearinghttps://t.co/gCTYeEj6HC— Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (@Maritime_Trades) February 7, 2025Metal Trades Department:Groton-based submarine maker Electric Boat announces plan to hire 3K in 2025. About 400 new employees would work at the company’s shipyard in Groton. https://t.co/Mcyxz02BIF— Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) February 4, 2025Musical Artists:AGMA Black Caucus announces February Meeting, honoring Black History Month. All Black AGMA Artists are invited to attend: https://t.co/kcflh0v9Ea pic.twitter.com/NIddZpXiBt— AGMA (@AGMusicalArtist) February 6, 2025National Air Traffic Controllers Association:For February, the 2025 NATCA wall calendar features a photo of Allegheny County Airport and ATCT (AGC) taken by local member Dan Fostel. To have your facility featured in the 2026 calendar, submit photos here. https://t.co/eLpzliAG6F pic.twitter.com/YzXEQj19Jl— NATCA (@NATCA) February 11, 2025National Association of Letter Carriers:The #StampOutHunger Food Drive is just 3 months away. 📅On Saturday, May 10, set out non-perishable food by your mailbox for your letter carrier to collect. Since 1993, the members of NALC have helped fill food pantries nationwide. We couldn't do it without your support! pic.twitter.com/DO073cJEEF— Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) February 10, 2025National Domestic Workers Alliance:Domestic workers in California won life-saving protections amid the wildfires. But there are still more health and safety protections needed for workers tasked with cleaning up hazardous waste. Read more in @MorePerfectUS's Substack: https://t.co/LvvH9fpeGh— Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) February 10, 2025National Federation of Federal Employees:Over the weekend, National President Randy Erwin joined CNN Newsroom Primetime to tell Americans why erratically downsizing the federal workforce would be a disaster for our members and the country.Watch now: https://t.co/Tdtcaay7e4 pic.twitter.com/QyatZiVC9g— NFFE (@NFFE_Union) February 10, 2025National Nurses United:Our first #MedicareForAll National Strategy Call of 2025 is rapidly approaching!Join us Wednesday to hear about how we can fight back against the many threats facing the public health care system under the new presidential administration.https://t.co/doWyaLKLYv pic.twitter.com/3BGON3Czh9— NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) February 10, 2025NWSL Players Association:We stand with the LCMC Nurses and all @NationalNurses https://t.co/4vXx7Ztlcw— NWSLPA (@nwsl_players) February 7, 2025NFL Players Association:Mental health is wealth 🧠Our first Be Well event brought together mental health professionals, equipping them with resources to best serve our player members through a panel, resource fair and breathing session. pic.twitter.com/ojhfIpTp8u— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 9, 2025North America's Building Trades Unions:Workers know the truth: unions are the path to better wages, benefits, and job security.https://t.co/EtM05KAgzb pic.twitter.com/WJNld5DSqm— The Building Trades (@NABTU) February 6, 2025Office and Professional Employees:Glenda Armstrong is a member of the General Association of Miramar Employees (GAME)/OPEIU Local 101. A former president of the local, Armstrong’s career has spanned nearly 30 years with the City of Miramar, Fla., and two decades with Local 101. #BlackHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/PAAZGKCUQ7— OPEIU | #UnionStrong (@OPEIU) February 7, 2025Painters and Allied Trades:DC14 held a 2-day Advanced Spray Class for journey workers and apprentices to practice and gain real-world experience with advanced painting technology. Our training centers are at the top of the industry by providing our members with skills and job readiness! pic.twitter.com/Q9PqQwdmK8— IUPAT (@GoIUPAT) February 11, 2025Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union:Enacting the Retail Worker Safety Act we pushed for is critical to protecting our members & workers across the industry. @GovKathyHochul came by our packed Local 1-S Macy’s workers membership meeting today to speak with us about how the bill is being implemented & answer q’s. pic.twitter.com/C6UdaYeNEk— RWDSU (@RWDSU) February 11, 2025Roofers and Waterproofers:If there are cellular antennas on your job, you may be exposed to radiofrequency (RF) radiation. One symptom of exposure to RF is dizziness, which can lead to a fall. Learn how to protect yourself: https://t.co/2Rv9mvICkO #roofersafety365 pic.twitter.com/4ZSNXpI1Xl— Roofers Union (@roofersunion) February 10, 2025SAG-AFTRA:SAG-AFTRA offers its condolences to friends & family on the passing of Tony Roberts, a former National & NY Local Board member. The Tony-nominee was an accomplished performer on stage & screen, & a distinguished union leader. #SagAftraMember since 1962 https://t.co/8TigJ0MZPZ— SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) February 10, 2025Service Employees International Union (SEIU):LA County members are gearing up, training, and getting strike-ready to take on unfair labor practices. When we fight together, we win! https://t.co/S2uweb0RTc— SEIU (@SEIU) February 10, 2025The NewsGuild-CWA:📚🔥 We Are the Union by @_ericblanc is out now—and it features The NewsGuild!This book dives into the worker-to-worker organizing model that wins! RSVP here to join us for the book talk with the author and Guild members:📅 Feb 25th @ 6PM ET📍 https://t.co/uTeRY5ycfo— The NewsGuild-CWA (@newsguild) February 7, 2025Theatrical Stage Employees:THE SUPER BOWL HALFTIME SHOW IS UNION MADE!Shout out to @kendricklamar, and all the performers and behind the scenes workers that made this go off without a hitch! pic.twitter.com/9Ialfeks1I— IATSE // #IASolidarity (@IATSE) February 10, 2025Transport Workers Union:Keeping Miami-Dade Transit rail cars rolling. @Twu291Rail Car Mechanics and Technicians at work at the Lehman Center maintenance facility in the ⁦@CityofMiami⁩ ⁦@IRideMDT⁩ TWU 💪⁦⁦@TwuSamuelsen⁩ pic.twitter.com/K4q9L3IVDm— TWU (@transportworker) February 6, 2025Transportation Trades Department:Labor history is black history.During #BlackHistoryMonth, we honor the sacrifices that black workers made for liberation, and the labor movement continues to fight for economic and racial justice. pic.twitter.com/H4LqsgB8Ug— TTD | America's Transportation Unions (@TTDAFLCIO) February 10, 2025UAW:Yesterday, UAW President Shawn Fain spent time on the shop floor at his home plant, Kokomo Casting, Local 1166. President Fain visited with Region 2B Director Dave Green and Stellantis Department Director, Kevin Gotinksy. pic.twitter.com/rnnGmRxOnL— UAW (@UAW) February 11, 2025UNITE HERE:Super Bowl LIX is here, and we'd like to shout out the stadium workers of @unitehere23 who'll be serving up all your game day needs. No matter who you’re cheering for, the bartenders, servers, utility, and concessions workers will make sure you have a great game day experience! pic.twitter.com/5a6tfDdaH5— UNITE HERE (@unitehere) February 9, 2025United Food and Commercial Workers:UFCW members make #SBLIX happen! 🏈From UFCW Local 1546 Horween Leather workers crafting the footballs to grocery workers stocking your game-day favorites, we’ve got you covered for #SuperBowlSunday! pic.twitter.com/s2d5uwUSE0— UFCW (@UFCW) February 9, 2025United Steelworkers:Our Black History Month spotlights continue with Jennifer Beard! A true union activist since 2001, she’s president of Local 13-1327, involved in health & safety, Women of Steel, Veterans of Steel & more. She teaches because knowledge is power & honors those who paved the way. pic.twitter.com/msrboAyYvm— United Steelworkers #EverybodysUnion (@steelworkers) February 11, 2025Utility Workers:✊🏽✊🏻✊🏿✊🏼✊🏾 Sending #solidarity to Michigan State Utility Workers Council members who are gearing up, quite literally, for contract negotiations! #UnionStrong #ItsBetterInAUnion pic.twitter.com/c8ptWUZgc0— UWUA National (@The_UWUA) February 11, 2025Writers Guild of America East:We are thrilled to welcome workers at PS into the @vox_union after they won voluntary recognition from management!We continue to demand @thedodounion be included as #oneuniononecontract. pic.twitter.com/dqqWNACn4S— Writers Guild of America East (@WGAEast) February 10, 2025 Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/12/2025 - 11:33Continue reading

Denver Regional Assembly

Room rate: $129,00 single/double per night. Reservation link: https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.51075.html?groupld=6X... Cut-off: May 1. Registration: $130 before May 1; $140 after, Click here for registration form. May 29, 2025 - 8:15AM to June 1, 2025 - 5:15PMBest Western Hotel123 W. E Street Casper, WY 82601 LocalNoYes2025-02-12 00:00:00Denver Regional AssemblyHotel  Best Western Hotel 123 W. E Street Casper, WY 82601 (307) 439-2074. Room rate: $129,00 single/double per night. Cut-off: May 1. Reservation link: https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.51075.html?groupld=6X... Registration $130 before May 1; $140 after  - includes hospitality and three meals. Click here for registration form. Send completed registration forms and fee (made payable to Casper Area Local #580) to: Casper Area Local APWU Post Office Box 51303 Casper, WY 82605   10Continue reading

Black History Month Profiles: Julian Ware

Black History Month Profiles: Julian Ware For Black History Month, we're taking a look at a group of leaders who are currently actively making Black history across the labor movement. Check back daily for a new profile and meet some of the people working to improve not only their community, but also to improve conditions for working people across the country. Today's profile is Julian Ware of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE).  Julian Ware is from IFPTE Local 21, representing public sector workers across the San Francisco Bay Area. Ware serves as the vice president for Local 21 Oakland on the executive board, where he has served for the past several years. In addition to his roles as a board member, he continues his work as a steward. He has been an employee of the city of Oakland's IT Department since 2002, performing spatial analysis to empower the community. Ware is a San Francisco native and continues to reside there with his wife and two children. Kenneth Quinnell Wed, 02/12/2025 - 09:50Continue reading

UAW Blasts Reckless National Institute of Health Cuts: A Direct Attack on Jobs, Innovation, and Life-Saving Research

The Trump administration’s decision to slash NIH funding is a gut punch to scientific progress, economic growth, and the fight against deadly diseases. The post UAW Blasts Reckless National Institute of Health Cuts: A Direct Attack on Jobs, Innovation, and Life-Saving Research appeared first on UAW | United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America.Continue reading