Annual Enrollment
The union has researched premium changes to 2021 benefits. Article 16 B 4 F states that the “core and select medical plans cannot exceed 9.25 percent.” Article 16 B 5 defines the select regional plans. The company is under the 9.25 percentage. Be aware that the Aetna select plans are changing and co-pays are going up – $35.00 for your primary care physician and $70.00 for specialists. Co-insurance is changing from 100 percent to 80-20 percent and out of pocket maximums are all changing. Beware of changes to medications you are taking, as changes to this tier structure could happen.
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
The union has researched premium changes to 2021 benefits. Article 16 B 4 F states that the “core and select medical plans cannot exceed 9.25 percent.” Article 16 B 5 defines the select regional plans. The company is under the 9.25 percentage. Be aware that the Aetna select plans are changing and co-pays are going up – $35.00 for your primary care physician and $70.00 for specialists. Co-insurance is changing from 100 percent to 80-20 percent and out of pocket maximums are all changing. Beware of changes to medications you are taking, as changes to this tier structure could happen.
The Annual Enrollment (AE) for 2021 benefits is open for active employees from October 19 – 30; for retirees, COBRA, VSP and furloughed employees it is open from November 2-13. Enrolling in your 2021 benefits can be now done online – log on to YBR by navigating through Flying Together > Employee Services > Health & Insurance (YBR). You can also call the Benefits Service Center at 1 (800) 651-1007 from 7 A.M. to 7 P.M. Central Time, Monday – Friday. There is also a CHAT feature in YBR to assist with questions. You can also contact Accolade Health Assistant at 1(844) 252-6830 or united.myaccolade.com
Many of your 2020 elections will carry over for 2021, however, you’ll need to make elections during AE if you want to:
change plans and/or levels of coverage,
add or remove dependents from your coverage,
contribute to the healthcare and/or dependent care FSAs next year, or
enroll in one of the new medical plans.
You can change your HSA contributions at any time – the more money you put away tax‑free, the more you’ll have to spend on future eligible medical expenses, even in retirement. Take time to review your benefit elections to make sure they will meet your needs for the coming year.
United Airlines will be launching a new PPO plan next year. Similar in design to the Healthy Rewards PPO, the United Airlines PPO Plan uses the same wide PPO network, lower deductible, and coinsurance percentages.
The new United Airlines PPO plan does not have wellness incentives tied to it, meaning you do not get money from United Airlines for completing an annual physical. Instead, you have a lower deductible to hit before the plan begins paying coinsurance.
With the introduction of the new United Airlines PPO Plan, the company will be eliminating the Healthy Rewards PPO plan at the end of 2020 for all employees. Below are some of the details of the new United Airlines PPO Plan.
If you’re enrolled in the Healthy Rewards PPO plan today, you will be automatically enrolled in the new United Airlines PPO plan for coverage starting January 1, 2021. If you want to switch plans for 2021, be sure to make your new election during AE. If you have funds remaining in your HRA you can continue to use them for 5 years (as long as you remain enrolled in United Airlines’ medical coverage).
You can now use your Healthy Rewards HRA dollars for even more eligible expenses, including dental and vision. This means any money remaining in your HRA can be spent on eligible medical, prescription, dental AND vision expenses. If you enroll in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) over the next five years, you can use your HRA funds after you’ve exhausted your FSA funds. Do not confuse the HRA Healthy Rewards Account with your HRA VEBA Health Retirement Account.
Stay Safe,
Ken Meidinger
Airline Division International Representative
UAL Benefits Coordinator
Airline Division Asks United Airlines to Return Furloughed Members Back To Work
You may have seen a press release from Speaker Pelosi's office urging airlines not to lay off staff.
The Speaker's statement was that a deal for relief would soon be reached. Soon after the press release was issued, a request was made to undo the furlough for this membership by Director Bourne to the leadership of United. As soon as we hear back from the company, we will let you know.
October 2nd, 2020
RE; Airline Relief
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
You may have seen a press release from Speaker Pelosi's office urging airlines not to lay off staff.
The Speaker's statement was that a deal for relief would soon be reached. Soon after the press release was issued, a request was made to undo the furlough for this membership by Director Bourne to the leadership of United. As soon as we hear back from the company, we will let you know.
In Solidarity,
Vinny Graziano
October 2nd, 2020
Kate Gebo
Executive Vice President Human Resources and Labor Relations
United Airlines
Zachary Jones
Vice President, Labor Relations
United Airlines
Dear Kate and Zachary,
In light of the statement this afternoon from Speaker Pelosi's office, the Teamsters Airline Division urges United Airlines to return our members to work with all due haste. The longer it takes to unwind this furlough the more problems that will be created. Time is of the essence for the peace of mind of our members.
Regards,
Capt. David Bourne
Director, Teamsters Airline Division
Speaker Pelosi Commits to Passing Payroll Support Program
As we've previously reported, Local 856 Principal Officer Peter Finn and Local 986 Principal Officer Chris Griswold have been in consistent contact with Speaker Pelosi's office expressing the importance of saving aviation jobs at SFO. Please see Speaker Pelosi's statement below committing to extending the payroll support program for airline workers and asking airlines to delay furloughs.
As we've previously reported, Local 856 Principal Officer Peter Finn and Local 986 Principal Officer Chris Griswold have been in consistent contact with Speaker Pelosi's office expressing the importance of saving aviation jobs at SFO. Please see Speaker Pelosi's statement below committing to extending the payroll support program for airline workers and asking airlines to delay furloughs.
October 2, 2020
Contact: Speaker’s Press Office,
202-226-7616
Pelosi Statement on Imminent Relief for Airline Workers
Washington, D.C. – Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued this statement calling on airlines to hold off on furloughs and firings as an agreement for relief for airline workers is being reached:
“The massive furloughs and firings of America’s airline workers jeopardize the livelihoods of tens of thousands and threaten to accelerate the devastating economic crisis facing our nation. Today, I am calling upon the airlines to delay their devastating job cuts as relief for airline workers is being advanced in Congress.
“We will either enact Chairman DeFazio’s bipartisan stand-alone legislation or achieve this as part of a comprehensive negotiated relief bill, extending for another six months the Payroll Support Program. This initiative is focused solely on the workers, keeping them on the payroll so these workers maintain their critical training and certification requirements unique to their industry.
“As relief for airline workers is being advanced, the airline industry must delay these devastating job cuts.”
# # #
Technicians Special Update
I am very disappointed the extension was not passed yesterday. I know for many of you this leads to pain and confusion about the future. I understand what you're going through but please do not give up hope. There is broad bipartisan support for airline relief in Congress. Our lobbyists believe a package will pass shortly and I remain hopeful it will.
Technicians Special Update
October 1, 2020
Lack of CARES Act Extension
Brothers and Sisters,
I am very disappointed the extension was not passed yesterday. I know for many of you this leads to pain and confusion about the future. I understand what you're going through but please do not give up hope. There is broad bipartisan support for airline relief in Congress. Our lobbyists believe a package will pass shortly and I remain hopeful it will.
In the meantime, while we wait on Congress, remember if you need help your Locals have many resources to assist. In addition, the EAP program can also be very helpful in stressful times. If you'd like to help put pressure on Congress, I urge you to call your Senators and Representatives to implore them to pass relief quickly for our industry. The phone number for the Capitol switchboard is 202-224-3121. The operator will patch you through to your Senator or Representative.
With high regards,
Vinny Graziano
Airline Division
International Brotherhood of Teamsters
Mechanics' Dispatch -- Sept. 29, 2020
As you are aware, various Locals identified a number of issues with the current furlough process and numerous grievances were filed on behalf of the membership. In the last Dispatch it was reported that we were trying to work with management to resolve these issues and make sure that the agreement was followed as intended.
What wasn't reported was that we were preparing and working towards filing an injunction in Federal Court to halt the Reduction In Force process. Six attorneys from both the IBT Legal department, and the firm of Barkan Meizlish, were coordinating the construction of a major dispute case on our behalf. This step was necessary because if the furlough stood as it was many members would be negatively affected with little recourse to be made whole.
Technicians Update
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As you are aware, various Locals identified a number of issues with the current furlough process and numerous grievances were filed on behalf of the membership. In the last Dispatch it was reported that we were trying to work with management to resolve these issues and make sure that the agreement was followed as intended.
What wasn't reported was that we were preparing and working towards filing an injunction in Federal Court to halt the Reduction In Force process. Six attorneys from both the IBT Legal department, and the firm of Barkan Meizlish, were coordinating the construction of a major dispute case on our behalf. This step was necessary because if the furlough stood as it was many members would be negatively affected with little recourse to be made whole.
In a new development, I am happy to report that we've come to an agreement. At this point the lawsuit will not be necessary based on the Company rerunning the furlough using the same data set meaning there will not be a do over of choices. What will happen is the additional vacancies at cities like Tampa, Seattle and a few other impacted cities will be filled after the RIF is complete via the recall process or by article five, Filling of Vacancies if warranted.
While this will cause an extra step in the reshuffling it will honor seniority and will be conducted as per the Collective Bargaining Agreement. A number of other issues were resolved as well, including being displaced to lower paying positions, and bumping into lower rated crafts.
Two other previously filed grievances (FRD, Audit trail) will be heard as minor disputes using the expedited arbitration process tentatively scheduled for Nov 30, 2020. In addition to these two grievances moving forward any other grievances that have been filed by the locals will continue using the grievance machinery outlined in Article 19. I'm pleased we were able to resolve these problems to the benefit of the membership that had been disenfranchised as a result.
An update will be sent once these above mentioned cases are heard and adjudicated.
In Solidarity,
Vincent Graziano
International Representative
Airline Division
CARE ACT Lobbying Update
As you are no doubt aware, the CARES Act sunsets at the end of September. Not long after it was passed in March, it became clear that more relief would be needed. The IBT Airline Division has used all of our resources to push for an extension of the CARES Act; as of this writing our efforts continue. Negotiations on Capitol Hill are often difficult and last-minute deals typical; we expect that is how negotiations over this bill will play out. We are hopeful that an extension of the CAREs Act will pass and provide for a six month no-furlough extension, though. The President and Speaker of the House are both in favor of this outcome, but nothing is guaranteed at the moment.
Here are some thoughts from Teamster Lobbyist Jack Albertine, of Albertine and Associates, regarding these negotiations:
Joint letter from United CEO Scott Kirby, IBT Airline Division, and other aviation unions urging passage of PSP
Secretary Mnuchin, Speaker Pelosi, Leader McCarthy, Leader McConnell and Leader Schumer:
On behalf of the 87,000 aviation professionals of United Airlines, we are joining together to respectfully urge a restart of critical negotiations on Covid-19 legislation to include a clean 6-month extension of the very successful Payroll Support Program (PSP) for airline employees. Without additional funding for the PSP grants, up to 16,000 members of the United family are at risk of involuntary furloughs beginning October 1st. Continuation of this critical program would prevent the furloughs and provide
UAL Mechanics Dispatch-September 9, 2020
I would like to give you an update regarding an issue that has been raised after the selection process ended by several members and their representatives. As stated in past releases, and as you know, our Reduction In Force (RIF) procedures were made extremely challenging and expensive for the company to follow and implement.
These challenges were designed to be an added extra level of protection for the membership in hopes to mitigate furloughs during times such as the one we currently find ourselves in.
Technicians Update
September 9, 2020
Dear Brother and Sisters,
I would like to give you an update regarding an issue that has been raised after the selection process ended by several members and their representatives. As stated in past releases, and as you know, our Reduction In Force (RIF) procedures were made extremely challenging and expensive for the company to follow and implement.
These challenges were designed to be an added extra level of protection for the membership in hopes to mitigate furloughs during times such as the one we currently find ourselves in.
A consequence of instituting a difficult process is that there will always be mistakes in any type of application, especially one that has numerous complexities, such as the one outlined in our agreement.
One item that members have been very outspoken over is the increase of manpower in a few stations throughout the system such as Tampa.
After review, the union has determined that the company has used Article 6 as a vehicle to fill vacancies, when all vacancies are contractually frozen during the displacement process. The company has violated the agreement in several areas and has potentially placed technicians in stations out of seniority order by not giving those that are senior a chance to exercise their seniority.
At this point we are, and have been, working with the company to assure that all provisions as outlined in the agreement are followed. If we are unable to come to a resolution in an expeditious fashion then we will continue to process all grievances. These grievances have already been filed as ET-AL so that the entire system is covered.
As this process unfolds, we will continue to keep you updated.
In Solidarity,
Vinny Graziano
Airline Division Representative
International Brotherhood of Teamsters
RIF Final Staffing Numbers
As most of you probably already know, United released the final version of the post-RIF staffing numbers for the entire system last night. Just as we had anticipated, SFO was hit very hard. We have yet to receive the detailed breakdowns for each Local from the company, but simple math makes it apparent that SFO is losing approximately 1200 positions. On a call with the Company yesterday, the Union made it clear that we expect the Company to comply with Article 6.D and provide us with a complete and detailed accounting of the entire shakedown process in order to ensure that none of our member's rights were violated. The Company committed to providing that information.
As most of you probably already know, United released the final version of the post-RIF staffing numbers for the entire system last night. Just as we had anticipated, SFO was hit very hard. We have yet to receive the detailed breakdowns for each Local from the company, but simple math makes it apparent that SFO is losing approximately 1200 positions. On a call with the Company yesterday, the Union made it clear that we expect the Company to comply with Article 6.D and provide us with a complete and detailed accounting of the entire shakedown process in order to ensure that none of our member's rights were violated. The Company committed to providing that information.
The Company also stated their intent to start contacting impacted members sometime next week. If you are contacted and told that you have been impacted by the RIF in some way, and suspect that there is an error of any kind, please be sure to notify your management contact, ask to be directed to your RIF Coordinator and then immediately contact the Union.
Also of note, SVP Tom Doxey stated that the RIF process would be halted and all RIF notices rescinded if Congress designated more paycheck protection monies through a new version of the Cares Act. That would be followed by an updated analysis by the Company of this fluid situation we find ourselves in and then the initiation of a completely new RIF shakedown process afterwards. This would most likely result in a new RIF date of April 1st, 2021. We understand that this might create some very real problems for those folks that must give housing notices so let's hope Congress can get this done soon, before things get really complicated.
Earlier this week the Company confirmed to us their intent to keep the SFO base BAQ's (102, 104Base, 105Base, 110Base) intact going forward. However, based on these staffing numbers, we are obviously very unsatisfied as to the number of folks being kept in those BAQ's.
Additionally, a source of major concern for us is the Company's lack of an adequate answer to the question of what work will replace the heavy check work that is going out of Airframe, which the Company has now chosen to call Line+. Because of that, we have filed a scope grievance challenging that decision. We will keep you informed of any developments along that front.
In Solidarity,
Mark DesAngles Javier Lectora
Business Agent Business Agent
Local 986 Local 856
United Airlines Benefit Update
With potential layoffs coming you should review of your medical benefit options during open enrollment. If you are affected, or could be affected, by the reduction in force then you might want to look at a plan that has nationwide coverage. Plan eligibility is based on the zip code of your residence, but this is only a factor if someone enrolls in an HMO or HMO-like plan. All the EPO, PPO, and HSA plans have national networks. Reviewing your options could save you from using out of network benefits. The only time a plan election can change is when there is a qualified event (e.g. birth marriage), or during annual enrollment. Please keep your address up to date.
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
With potential layoffs coming you should review of your medical benefit options during open enrollment. If you are affected, or could be affected, by the reduction in force than you might want to look at a plan that has nationwide coverage. Plan eligibility is based on the zip code of your residence, but this is only a factor if someone enrolls in an HMO or HMO-like plan. All the EPO, PPO, and HSA plans have national networks. Reviewing your options could save you from using out of network benefits. The only time a plan election can change is when there is a qualified event (e.g. birth marriage), or during annual enrollment. Please keep your address up to date.
AFLAC
The Teamsters Airline Division has reached out to AFLAC for help for our membership. With possible furloughs coming and the loss of benefits, we are now able to provide the following options with no change in premiums:
if you have or will retire in 2020, we can help you port (keep) your coverage;
if you are furloughed, you can keep some or all of your coverage, or get hospital coverage if you are losing your UAL insurance;
if going on furlough, you can also choose to suspend your coverage (no premium or coverage) for up to 6 months and re-activate it when you are ready, and
if you do not have any AFLAC coverage, you can enroll now and go on direct pay without any payroll deduction.
The IBT relationship with AFLAC has helped our membership with affordable coverage that offers whole life, accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity coverage. This hospital coverage should be of great interest to many of you as it will provide $3,000-5,000 cash in the event of a hospitalization. Call, text or email one of our AFLAC representatives to answer your questions and assist you:
Bill Loweth – (713) 446-4800 BillLoweth@wbpinsure.com
Crystal Mulville – (832) 257-6201 CrystalMulville@wbpinsure.com
Vickie Beene – (713) 261-9935 VickieBeene@wbpinsure.com
Ed Marlette – (716) 316-1639 EdMarlette@wbpinsure.com
'Prescription Service
In a continued effort to help you make the most of your UAL benefits and to help you save money at a time when every dollar counts, we have a new benefit now available to you as part of your United-sponsored medical plan. *
This new benefit, Rx Savings Solutions, is free, confidential and designed to help you save money and better manage your prescription costs. It automatically alerts you with an email or text if you’re paying too much for one of your prescriptions and will help you find other ways to get the same treatment for less money.
With Rx Savings Solutions, you can:
locate better prices for your prescription drugs at pharmacies near you;
identify different medications with a lower out-of-pocket price that perform the same as your current or prescribed medication (which you can review with your own doctor);
search and compare prices and other options before being prescribed a new medication;
learn how to talk with your doctor or prescriber about making any changes to your prescriptions, or Rx Savings Solutions can do the work for you – providing access to certified pharmacy technicians for personal assistance, and
easily see all the ways you can save money on your personal prescriptions, according to your particular medical plan.
You can find out more and start saving today by activating your new benefit at myrxss.com. We are excited to introduce this option and hope you use it to find new ways to save on your prescriptions!
*Rx Savings Solutions is available to United Airlines employees and their covered spouse/qualified domestic partner and adult-aged family members enrolled in the following medical plans: $350 PPO, $750 PPO, $1,250 PPO, Traditional PPO, Bronze EPO, Silver EPO, Gold EPO, Platinum EPO, Core EPO, Core PPO, Core HDHP, Healthy Rewards PPO, and Healthy Advantage HSA.
Fraternally,
Ken Meidinger
International Representative & UAL Benefits Coordinator
Airline Division
Summer TAMC Newsletter
Check out the Summer 2020 Edition of the TAMC Newsletter. In this edition, we cover the state of the industry since the COVID-19 pandemic started, WARN notices, managing stress due to the coronavirus and more.
Check out the Summer 2020 Edition of the TAMC Newsletter. In this edition, we cover the state of the industry since the COVID-19 pandemic started, WARN notices, managing stress due to the coronavirus and more.
RIF Options Information 2
Below are answers to some of the questions that were asked during our various informational meetings throughout the Base in recent weeks. They are in no particular order.
We were asked if the effective date for those that decided to Retire in Lieu of Furlough would be October 1st. The answer is yes it would. And, yes, you would receive furlough pay.
We have also been asked many times if it is required that you check one of the three red asterisked choices at the bottom of Options 1 and 2 RIF Options pages. The short answer is 'NO'. Don't check any of those boxes unless you are looking for a specific outcome. Here are a couple of examples where it would make sense to make one of these choices.
Mark DesAngles - IBT Local 986
Javier Lectora - IBT Local 856
Teamsters Airline Division - SFO Point
August 5th, 2020
Re: RIF Options Information 2
All SFO IBT Members,
Below are answers to some of the questions that were asked during our various informational meetings throughout the Base in recent weeks. They are in no particular order.
We were asked if the effective date for those that decided to Retire in Lieu of Furlough would be October 1st. The answer is yes it would. And, yes, you would receive furlough pay.
We have also been asked many times if it is required that you check one of the three red asterisked choices at the bottom of Options 1 and 2 RIF Options pages. The short answer is 'NO'. Don't check any of those boxes unless you are looking for a specific outcome. Here are a couple of examples where it would make sense to make one of these choices.
Example 1: I want to check if I can stay in San Francisco but only in a couple of the BAQ's for which I am qualified. Otherwise, I will take the layoff. I would check only those particular BAQ's that I want to check and then LOAP at the end of Option 1. The system would check ONLY the BAQ's that I checked and, if none were available, I would be placed on LOAP. If you intend to try all the BAQ's for which you are qualified, you would not have to check LOAP at the end of Option 1. Also, if you have Option 2 preferences, you don't check anything at the bottom of Option 1.
Example 2: If I am retirement age and I would like to exercise my seniority to see if I can stay employed but I would rather retire than take a layoff, I would make all my selections for Option 1 and Option 2, then check Retire in Lieu of Furlough at the end of Option 2. The system would check if I have the seniority to hold in any of my preferences. If I could not, the System would allow me to retire instead of putting me on furlough. You would still receive severance.
These examples are specific types of uses for the red asterisk selections. If you intend to go completely through the process, you don't have to check any of those choices. If you cannot stay at SFO and you cannot bump to the system, you are going to be placed on LOAP at the end of the process anyway.
Regarding System options in your 'home' Bid Area (the Bid Area you are currently assigned):
If you have choices in your home Bid Area to the system, you have the option of selecting these home Bid Area system options as a part of Option 1 OR Option 2. This is important for two reasons:
First, if you have a different Furlough Recall Date (FRD) than your Craft Seniority, and it is your preference to try and stay at SFO, you would not select any system options in your home Bid Area as part of Option 1. You would only choose all the SFO BAQ's for which you are qualified. The program would exercise your Craft Seniority to check if you can displace in any of those BAQ's at SFO. If not, your FRD will be checked before bumping you out to Option 2 preferences. If you have a higher FRD, then the person with the lowest FRD in your classification at SFO will be bumped out before you, despite them having a higher Craft Seniority than you. FRD is what determines who bumps to the system or takes the layoff from the point (LOAP). In this scenario, you would then have the ability to prioritize your system options in your home Bid Area anywhere in Option 2 with the rest of your system options in other BAQ's.
Likewise, if it is your preference to try and exercise your FRD out to the system first, before trying SFO BAQ's, then you would select any of your system options in your home BAQ that you want as part of Option 1. You would then have the ability to sort those choices right at the top of Option 1, if you like. The program would then try and exercise your FRD out to the system in your home Bid Area in your preference order before checking any SFO BAQ options. However, if you had a high FRD, you might then bump out to the system before finding out if you could have stayed at SFO, like you did in the previous scenario.
Remember, that if you check any of your home Bid Area system options as part of Option 1, then they will not be available in Option 2. And vise verse.
Important information for our BAQ 302 Shop Inspectors:
As you know, the 302 BAQ exists only at SFO. As such, the RIF Options program does not list any 302 system options for the 302 Shop Inspectors. Consequently, a 302 must exhaust all Option 1 preferences before being able to exercise any Option 2 choices, as is stated in LOA 19. This includes any technician choices that were made as part of Option 1. Various other premium positions (Leads/Inspectors) have system options in their home Bid Area (the Bid Area currently working). They have the option of selecting home Bid Area system options as a part of Option 1 or Option 2, the same way other classifications such as technician can. This would allow a Lead/Inspector to prioritize bumping into the system using FRD in their home BAQ at the very top of Option 1, if they so desired. Likewise, if the priority was to stay at SFO, they could prioritize home Bid Area options to the system as part of Option 2. That would allow them to exercise all SFO Options, including any technician choices, as part of Option 1, before bumping into the system. Unfortunately, because of the unique nature of the 302 BAQ, that is simply not possible for this group. The bottom line is that a 302 will have to exhaust all Option 1 choices, including any voluntary technician choices, before being able to exercise bumping rights out into the system in Option 2. Of course, if you did not list any technician choices in Option 1, you would could go to Option 2 choices after the system checks all of your Option 1 premium selections. That is your choice. But, if you want to add technician choices to Option 1, you would have to exercise those choices before going to Option 2.
Someone asked about the fact that some of the HOU Hobby choices were removed from the preferences. Specifically, 102, 104, 105, and 110 were removed as options. According to Labor Relations, they were removed because the transition to IAH is already underway or largely completed for those BAQ's. All of the remaining HOU BAQ's are still available. Please be sure to read the note on the first page of the RIF Options. If you bump to any of those remaining HOU BAQ's, you will be subject to another RIF in the early part of next year. That RIF would be conducted per Article 6.B.4.
We have had several questions related to how a recall will be conducted. First, everyone on furlough will be placed on the SFO Point recall list in order of Furlough Recall Date (FRD). You can be recalled to any BAQ for which you are qualified. That is why it is important to make sure that all BAQ-related issues are taken care of before you are furloughed. Additionally, your recall right will not be affected by any selections that you make in the RIF Options process.
An important correction from previous information: If you 'retired' from furlough, you would not be ineligible for PBGC benefits. You would still receive those benefits upon turning 65 years of age. Please contact the PBGC for specifics. However, contractual Retiree Bridge benefits would not be available to individuals who did not retire from active service.
In Solidarity,
Mark DesAngles Javier Lectora
Business Agent Business Agent
Local 986 Local 856
Back Shop Chief Steward Election Results
Maurice McDonald has been elected Back Shops Chief Steward. His term will begin on Monday, September 28, 2020.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the vote and election process. Congratulations to Maurice and thank you to John Laurin for his service as a chief steward.
Maurice McDonald has been elected Back Shops Chief Steward. His term will begin on Monday, September 28, 2020.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the vote and election process. Congratulations to Maurice and thank you to John Laurin for his service as a chief steward.
SFO Maintenance Center plans
As you are aware from last week, the company planned to drastically overhaul the structure of the Base, which would have eliminated many jobs. We immediately reached out to our political allies, both local and federal, to express our concern that the actions of the company were violating the Collective Bargaining Agreement in a time of crisis. A meeting was held with Speaker Pelosi's office last week for this purpose.
July 29th, 2020
Re; SFO Maintenance Center plans
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As you are aware from last week, the company planned to drastically overhaul the structure of the Base, which would have eliminated many jobs. We immediately reached out to our political allies, both local and federal, to express our concern that the actions of the company were violating the Collective Bargaining Agreement in a time of crisis. A meeting was held with Speaker Pelosi's office last week for this purpose.
These actions resulted today in the company reaching out to us to let us know that the structure would remain the same in SFO. This is an important win in the battle to preserve your jobs but the struggle to continue protecting the Base will no doubt continue. Both of us are committed to utilizing our substantial resources to continue this fight if and when it rears its head again.
In Solidarity,
Chris Griswold Peter Finn
Principal Officer Principal Officer
Local 986 Local 856
UAL SPECIAL UPDATE- SFO Maintenance Base-July 24, 2020
The company reached out to us yesterday to inform us of their plan to fundamentally change the bid area structure of the SFO Maintenance Center. As soon as the plan was revealed to us, we engaged IBT Legal as well as outside counsel. While the legal review continues, Locals 986 and 856 under the leadership of Principal Officers Chris Griswold and Peter Finn respectively wasted no time in engaging politicians from the area, including attending a meeting with Speaker Pelosi's office this afternoon.
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
The company reached out to us yesterday to inform us of their plan to fundamentally change the bid area structure of the SFO Maintenance Center. As soon as the plan was revealed to us, we engaged IBT Legal as well as outside counsel. While the legal review continues, Locals 986 and 856 under the leadership of Principal Officers Chris Griswold and Peter Finn respectively wasted no time in engaging politicians from the area, including attending a meeting with Speaker Pelosi's office this afternoon.
The California Locals will continue to pursue all political avenues to protect the work and the Division will support them in any way we can.
As more information becomes available, we will share it with you as soon as possible.
In Solidarity,
Vinny Graziano
Airline Division Representative
International Brotherhood of Teamsters
CARES Act Letter from David Bourne, IBT Airline Division Director
Our industry remains in crisis. The damage being caused by the coronavirus has not abated, and in many parts of the country the pandemic has only worsened. Air service remains crippled, with a majority of flights grounded for the foreseeable future.
The IBT Airline Division has been working since the day Congress passed the CARES Act to make sure that the federal government will continue to provide strong and lasting relief to our members. The most important part of this effort is to ensure that the hard-fought wins and tens of billions of dollars which Congress extended to the industry and its workers this spring are not allowed to expire at the end of September without additional funds being made available to ensure our members are kept on payroll.
July 23, 2020
Dear Brothers and Sisters:
Our industry remains in crisis. The damage being caused by the coronavirus has not abated, and in many parts of the country the pandemic has only worsened. Air service remains crippled, with a majority of flights grounded for the foreseeable future.
The IBT Airline Division has been working since the day Congress passed the CARES Act to make sure that the federal government will continue to provide strong and lasting relief to our members. The most important part of this effort is to ensure that the hard-fought wins and tens of billions of dollars which Congress extended to the industry and its workers this spring are not allowed to expire at the end of September without additional funds being made available to ensure our members are kept on payroll.
We have joined arms with our brothers and sisters across aviation labor to call on Congress to pass a direct extension of this program. This program, known as the Payroll Support Program (PSP) granted billions of dollars in relief to airlines with the core requirement that the money be spent to retain its workforce, including paying all workers at current pay rates with full benefits.
We have been lobbying Members of Congress on Capitol Hill to reach out to their colleagues in order to help create the urgency needed to get an extension of this program across the finish line. We are urging that this payroll support program be extended until March 31, 2021. A new stimulus bill is expected to be taken up by Congress, and hopefully passed, before the Congressional recess in August. We have known for some time that this pandemic was here for the long run, elected leaders in Washington DC need to recognize the same and take swift action to protect our jobs.
The Division has also pushed for a number of other provisions which would increase safety on the job while also helping to stabilize the short-term finances of the industry. We have strongly supported the SEATS Act which would help make inflight social distancing a reality. This bill would allow the government to directly purchase empty seats on flights, allowing for greater separation between passengers and crew while also limiting industry losses until the economy stabilizes and normal travel resumes.
We have supported the national extension of hazard pay to airline employees as well as ten weeks paid family leave if your family member contracts coronavirus. We have pushed for comprehensive safety legislation for anyone still on the job, including mandates that facemasks be worn by passengers and crews during boarding and while in the air, and requirements that airlines regularly clean, disinfect, and sanitize all equipment and facilities in accordance with CDC guidance. We have supported efforts to ensure that airline workers receive priority COVID-19 testing, and that airlines be required to provided personal protective equipment (PPE) on the job.
Your union has even encouraged the use of the Defense Production Act, which would force certain manufacturers to start producing PPE instead of their normal goods so that no airline can claim that this PPE is not available.
While these fights are far from over, your union will continue to support you throughout these trying times. If you have any questions about the Division’s efforts or how to help, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to continuing to stand side by side with you and fighting to protect your work.
Sincerely,
David P. Bourne, Director
Teamsters Airline Division
UAL Force Majeure Statement
Many members have asked me and other IBT representatives whether the IBT-United Collective Bargaining Agreement (Agreement) continues to apply during the pandemic. The simple answer is: IT DOES. Many have said they heard that United will invoke “force majeure” provisions in the Agreement and have asked what that allows the Company to do in an emergency. I have discussed this with our legal team and have some answers to your questions.
July 23, 2020
Many members have asked me and other IBT representatives whether the IBT-United Collective Bargaining Agreement (Agreement) continues to apply during the pandemic. The simple answer is: IT DOES. Many have said they heard that United will invoke “force majeure” provisions in the Agreement and have asked what that allows the Company to do in an emergency. I have discussed this with our legal team and have some answers to your questions.
First -- “Force majeure” is a legal term that comes from the French words for “superior force.” It refers to clauses in contracts (including collective bargaining agreements) that allow one party or another to escape from some commitments if they are unable to perform them due to circumstances beyond their control. These are often referred to as “Act of God” or “Act of nature” provisions, and might provide that one party to a contract (or both) does not have to do something they promised to do in a contract if they were unable to due to an Act of God or nature occurs. For example, a contract to buy a house might have a “force majeure” clause that applies if the house is destroyed by a tornado or earthquake.
The words “force majeure” do not appear in our Agreement with United, but there are several “act of nature” or “act of God” provisions, including: Article 1.B.10.a (protecting San Francisco base); Article 1.B.10.b (providing for no forced relocation from SFO or Houston facilities); Article 2.M (emergency operations); Article 6.E (notice during RIFs); Article 17.H.6.d (mandatory overtime) and Letter of Agreement #18 (the no-furlough agreement). In every instance, the “force majeure” provisions are different, with different conditions about when they are triggered. Those differences are very important, because the exact language the parties used will determine whether there is a “force majeure” in any given situation. It is important to note that the Collective Bargaining Agreement as a whole IS NOT subject to force majeure exceptions and must be complied with even if acts of God or nature make it difficult or inconvenient for United to do so.
Letter of Agreement #18 (pages 260-61 of the CBA) is the no-furlough article, and as noted above it contains a “force majeure” clause. LOA #18 says that no employee on the Technicians’ or Flight Simulator Technicians’ seniority lists as of December 5, 2016 will be subject to furlough for the duration of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. The LOA contains an exception from the no layoff pledge “in the event that circumstances over which the Company does not have control is the continuing cause of such non-compliance. Circumstances beyond the Company’s control shall be: an act of nature; an ongoing labor dispute; grounding or repossession of a substantial number of the Company’s aircraft by a government agency or court order; loss or destruction of the Company’s aircraft; involuntary reduction in flying operations due either to governmental action(s)/requirement(s) or to a decrease in available fuel supply or other critical materials for the Company’s operation; revocation of the Company’s operating certificate(s); war emergency; a terrorist act, or a substantial delay in the delivery of aircraft scheduled for delivery, provided that one of these listed occurrences has a material and substantial impact on the Company.”
Article 1.B.10.b provides that employees at San Francisco and Houston maintenance facilities as of December 5, 2016 won’t be forced to relocate. It also provides, however, that these protections don’t apply “under the following circumstances: (a) an act of nature; (b) a strike or labor dispute; (c) a reduction in the Company’s operations because of a decrease in the available fuel supply or other critical materials due either to governmental action or commercial supplied being unable to meet the Company’s demands; (d) a revocation of the Company’s operating certificate(s), the grounding of a substantial number of the Company’s aircraft by governmental action, or a significant reduction of the size of the Company’s fleet or schedule beyond current levels; (e) a declared or undeclared war or national emergency; (f) compulsion by government agency or legislative or court action.”
United has announced that it plans to invoke the force majeure language in LOA 18 to lay off mechanics beginning October 1, 2020. It will announce when and where these layoffs will occur in September. United also has announced that it plans to invoke the different “force majeure” provisions contained in 1.B.10.b to force relocation from SFO and Houston starting in October. The IBT-Airline Division, in consultation with our legal team, is reviewing the Company’s plan and determining what it will do in response. We will make more information about that available after the Company announces its specific plans.
It is crucial for our members to understand that except for the few places where “Act of God” or “Act of nature” language appears, there is no “force majeure” allowing the Company to evade its contractual obligations under the Agreement generally. Our collective bargaining agreement remains enforceable, and the IBT will fight to enforce it.
Please let me know if you have any questions and I will do my best to get you answers, and thank you as always for your solidarity in these difficult times.
In Solidarity,
Vinny Graziano
Support Aviation Workers and Extend the Payroll Support Program
On behalf of the undersigned labor organizations representing aviation employees, we urge you to include a clean extension of the airline Payroll Support Program (PSP) in the next phase of COVID-19 relief legislation.
The PSP is the principal component of the airline worker relief provisions in the CARES Act. This extremely successful program, which provides aid exclusively for employee payroll, has ensured that nearly one million airline employees remain employed with their health insurance during this crisis while also preserving collective bargaining rights and prohibiting furloughs.
July 22, 2020
Support Aviation Workers and Extend the Payroll Support Program
Dear Senator:
On behalf of the undersigned labor organizations representing aviation employees, we urge you to include a clean extension of the airline Payroll Support Program (PSP) in the next phase of COVID-19 relief legislation.
The PSP is the principal component of the airline worker relief provisions in the CARES Act. This extremely successful program, which provides aid exclusively for employee payroll, has ensured that nearly one million airline employees remain employed with their health insurance during this crisis while also preserving collective bargaining rights and prohibiting furloughs.
Unfortunately, demand for air travel remains at a fraction of last year’s levels and will remain depressed well into next year. The current resurgence of COVID-19 nationwide is occurring just as the PSP program is winding down. Without Congressional intervention, hundreds of thousands of airline workers will lose their jobs on October 1, 2020. Major airlines—including American, Delta, and United—have already announced planned reductions in their workforce totaling at least 60,000 jobs and this is only the beginning. Additionally, the jobs lost require advanced training, background checks, and recurrent certifications that, once lost, will not be immediately recoverable. Losing so many of these jobs from a sector that accounts for five percent of our GDP will have massive, lasting, irrevocable spillover effects on our nation’s economic recovery.
We respectfully ask Congress to pass a clean extension of the PSP through March 31, 2021, including an additional $32 billion in aid, allowing the program to continue as intended under the current statute without requiring additional applications or agreements between Treasury and the recipients. This is the simplest and fastest way to maintain Congress’ historic commitment to keep aviation workers on payroll—many of whom are on the front lines of this deadly virus. Waiting is not an option. Absent immediate Congressional action mass layoffs will begin on October 1, 2020.
Only through an extension of PSP grants can Congress ensure that airline workers will be ready to lift our economy up once the threat of this virus has passed. We urge you stand up for airline and airline contractor workers by passing a clean extension of the PSP in the pending COVID-19 relief legislation.
Sincerely,
David Bourne, Director, International Brotherhood of Teamsters – Airline Division
Joe DePete, President, Air Line Pilots Association
Eric Ferguson, President, Allied Pilots Association
Julie Hedrick, National President, Association of Professional Flight Attendants
Pedro Leroux, President, NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots
Sara Nelson, International President, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA
Sito Pantoja, General Vice President for Transportation, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
Mike Perrone, National President, Professional Aviation Safety Specialists
Paul Rinaldi, President, National Air Traffic Controllers Association
John Samuelsen, International President, Transport Workers Union
Christopher M. Shelton, President, Communications Workers of America
Richard Trumka, President, American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations
Jonathan L. Weaks, President, Southwest Airlines Pilots Association
Larry I. Willis, President, Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO
Mandatory Mask Policy
The company informed us they are instituting a mandatory mask policy. While following the recommendations of the CDC is wise and we are not opposed to a mask policy in theory, the disciplinary aspect of the company's policy is beyond draconian.
Mandatory Mask Policy
Re; Mandatory Mask Policy
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
The company informed us they are instituting a mandatory mask policy. While following the recommendations of the CDC is wise and we are not opposed to a mask policy in theory, the disciplinary aspect of the company's policy is beyond draconian. The punishment prescribed in this policy are that two infractions lead to termination. To estimate the number of terminations that will follow if this policy is instituted is unknowable. What will be true however is the number will be great. In the normal course of performing our duties there will be numerous instances of masks falling down or getting in the way while doing something critical. The way the policy is written members may even be in violation while cleaning up or using the restroom facilities. That is to say nothing of the subjective observance of someone in the breakroom eating or drinking with their masks lowered. At this point we will engage members of Congress for help as well as exploring appropriate legal action to oppose this policy. Please wear your masks to the best of your ability while this process unfolds. Also know that we will defend your just cause rights to the fullest extent possible.
In Solidarity,
Vinny Graziano
Airline Division Representative
International Brotherhood of Teamsters
RIF Options Information
The following information is based on some of the questions and feedback we have been getting from you all as we visited various work areas throughout the Base. Although we anticipate more questions to arise as we get to more areas, we thought it prudent to get out as much information as we can as quickly as possible, based on the time sensitive nature of the RIF Options process.
We were asked today why someone making their selections was not able to prioritize a selection to exercise FRD seniority to go to a non-home Bid Area (a BID Area you are currently not working) in the System over a selection to exercise FRD seniority to go to a home Bid Area (current Bid Area) in the System.
Mark DesAngles - IBT Local 986
Javier Lectora - IBT Local 856
Teamsters Airline Division - SFO Point
July 21st, 2020
Re: RIF Options Information
All SFO IBT Members,
The following information is based on some of the questions and feedback we have been getting from you all as we visited various work areas throughout the Base. Although we anticipate more questions to arise as we get to more areas, we thought it prudent to get out as much information as we can as quickly as possible, based on the time sensitive nature of the RIF Options process.
We were asked today why someone making their selections was not able to prioritize a selection to exercise FRD seniority to go to a non-home Bid Area (a BID Area you are currently not working) in the System over a selection to exercise FRD seniority to go to a home Bid Area (current Bid Area) in the System.
The answer is that exercising FRD to go to a home Bid Area in the system is part of Option 1 and all Option 1 selections, per the CBA, must be exercised before you can go to Option 2, which is exercising your FRD to any non-home Bid Area in the system. You are not required to select all the places in the system where your home Bid Area exists when you make your selections. But if you do select one or more, the program is required to try and exercise your seniority to go to one of those selections before moving on to Option 2 in the shakedown process. Please refer to LOA 19 (Exercise of RIF Options) in the CBA.
Also, you should keep in mind that all technicians are required to exercise Craft Seniority to stay at their point before being able to proceed to Option 2 to bump into the system. It is better to click on all of your BAQ preferences so that you can prioritize those options accordingly because, even if you did not make a particular BAQ choice, the system would auto-assign you to a Bid Area you are qualified in at SFO (if that option is the only one available) before allowing you to go to Option 2 to bump the system.
We also received a question as to whether or not an IBT member can retire from Furlough. Our understanding is that, technically, the answer is yes. You would have access to your CARP funds and to Company pass travel based on your age and years of service. However, you have to be an active employee upon retirement to have access to the bridge medical. Also, for those that were around during the 2005 bankruptcy, the PBGC will not pay you benefits unless you retire from active status. Therefore, for most of us, the practical answer to this question is no. Please do not make that type of decision without talking to your TMAP Member Assistance Coordinator first.
One of the other questions we were asked was whether a technician furloughed from SFO could potentially be recalled to another station. The answer is no. You will only be recalled to a station where you have recall rights, meaning one from which you were furloughed. However, while you are on furlough, it is a possibility that certain stations may exhaust their recall lists faster than others. Once a station exhausts its recall list, it can start posting vacancies to the system. A member on furlough can then bid those vacancies, which are awarded in Craft Seniority order. Also, if you did end up getting a bid to another station, you would still have your recall rights to SFO. Therefore, it is imperative that you stay connected while you are out on furlough so that you can be aware of any opportunities that arise. You will have access to a modified flying together portal while you are furlough.
That is all for now. Please don't hesitate to reach out to your Shop Steward or Chief Steward if you have any questions or concerns so that we can get you squared away.
In Solidarity,
Mark DesAngles Javier Lectora
Business Agent Business Agent
Local 986 Local 856