Check out the IATSE National FAQ Website on Organizing
Many workers in non-union workplaces have contacted us looking for a Union
to help them and their families have better lives. Many ask the same basic
questions -- we will try to answer them below
Some Frequently asked questions:
How organizing works.
1. Sign representation cards.
2. We need 30% interest to proceed.
3. Send letter to Employer informing them we represent their employees.
4. If Employer refuses the Nation Labor Relations Board will send them
notification of elections.
5. Once elections are held 50% +1 in favor of the Union binds Employer to negotiate a contract.
If I choose the Union will I loose my job?
ANSWER: Absolutely not, you cannot be fired, harassed or demoted for choosing
the Union to represent you. If an employer improperly discharges,
suspends or demotes an employee for union activity, the employee
can obtain reinstatement without loss of seniority and with back
pay plus 6%.
Will my Employer know I signed a card?
ANSWER: Absolutely not. Your decision is confidential between the Union
and the National Labor Relations Board unless you choose to tell
the Employer of your decision.
Are there any fees for job referrals with the Union?
ANSWER: Yes, everyone pays a 4% hiring hall fee.
Your 4% hiring hall fee pays for contract negotiations, educational
programs, legal fees, job dispatch and day to day business expenses.
Will current members take my job if we go union?
ANSWER: Absolutely not! There is a venue based job referral list for each venue.
How does a venue based referral list keep a current member from taking my job?
ANSWER: The referral list is based on how much a person has worked at each venue not on union membership. Your job stays your job.
How would being Union get me paid on time?
ANSWER: All IATSE Local 122 contracts have a payroll time period built into
them. This is typically 2 weeks.
Will I still get 1099s and have to deal with paying the taxes? What
about workers comp?
ANSWER: This is also covered by the contracts. Every employer must take
payroll deductions and carry workers comp on every job. All job
relate injuries will be covered by the employer - as is required
by law. Employers are required to pay into state and federal unemployment
and disability insurance. This will entitle you to the state benefits
that related to these payments, including Unemployement Insurance,
Disability Insurance, and Family Medical Leave. Also, employers
are required to pay taxes on your behalf, helping you keep your
annual tax payments at a minimum.
Who will run my Union if we organize?
ANSWER: You and your fellow workers run
the Union. Since you elect your own Local officers, you run your
own Local Union affairs, you make the decisions on your Union contract,
you elect your International Union officers and you decide by majority
vote the policies of your Local Union. See How a Union Works for
more details.
Will the workers have help with grievances?
ANSWER: YES. Besides the support that IATSE Local 122 has available,
the IATSE National typically has experienced service officers
available who will help Local 122 with grievance issues. Not only
are you part of a large group of employees in San Diego, but your
voice is represented on a nationwide basis.
Is an employer with a Union more likely to go out of business
than an employer without a Union?
The answer is NO -- Unionized
companies are more profitable and get better results
because of a Union.
What are the advantages of being in a Union?
ANSWER: There are many
advantages. Here are just a few -- Union members enjoy much higher
wages than non-unionized employees, Union members have excellent healthcare
benefits (most of which are fully paid the employer), and Union members
have excellent retirement plans.
Will my family benefit from my being in the Union?
ANSWER: Yes, not only
will Union members and their families enjoy higher wages, benefits
and job security, but the Union itself usually offers scholarships
to children of members, the Union offers better mortgage rates
for home loans and a Mastercard with lower rates. The Union also
provides its members with insurance plans to benefit the whole
family.
Sounds interesting. How can I get more information without jeopardizing my current job?
ANSWER: All calls concerning organizing are kept in the strictest confidence. We would do nothing to jeopardize your current job.
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