IAM Union Encourages Future Investment in Union Workers as U.S. High Speed Rail Expands
WASHINGTON, May 1, 2024 — While the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) had hoped for Brightline West to award its trainset production to IAM Local 2741 (District 19) members at Alstom in Hornell, N.Y., the union is hopeful that IAM and union members across the U.S. will continue to play a formative role in the expansion of the U.S. high speed rail industry.
IAM Rail Division members at the Hornell facility possess the skills and expertise necessary to deliver top-quality transportation solutions, as evidenced by their production of high-speed trains for Amtrak’s Acela service.
With record investments from the Biden-Harris Administration, and the White House’s focus on expanding good-paying union jobs, the IAM remains committed to advocating for the interests of American workers and ensuring that future high-speed rail projects prioritize domestic production and employment.
APRIL 2024 VETERAN OF THE MONTH
Our April TCU Veteran of the Month is Brother Nicholas Contreras. Brother Contreras was drafted and served in the United States Army from March 1954 to March 1956. During his service, he completed 16 weeks of Basic and Advanced Infantry Training in Fort Bliss, Texas, and was stationed in Pittsburg, PA.
Brother Contreras has been a TCU member for 65 years. He started with Southern Pacific (now Union Pacific) in 1951 and joined Local Lodge 6783. He then served as Secretary and Vice Local Chairman from 1968 to 1974 and as Local Chairman from 1974 to 1978. In 1978, Brother Contreras was elected General Chairman of Joint Protective Board 450, the post he held until being voted a Carmen Division General Vice President (GVP) at the 1991 Convention. He served as GVP from 1991 to 1999 and retired in March 2000.
Brother Contreras was the first and only Hispanic male to become a Carmen Division GVP.
He now lives in Waller, TX, with his wife and children. He will be celebrating his 90th birthday on April 12th!
Thank you, Brother Contreras, for your service and for being part of our great union! Your TCU family wishes you a blessed & happy 90th birthday!
Join the IAM at the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists Annual Convention in May
The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) will hold its 53rd Annual International Convention from May 21 to 26, 2024 at the Marriott Marquis Houston (1777 Walker St., Houston, TX 77010).
The theme for this year is “Never Back, Always Forward: Hate Cannot Erase Us.”
This year’s convention will feature topics and speakers addressing the victories of 2023 and discuss the organizing we need to do in 2024. CBTU Convention guests will include national and international leaders of this great labor movement.
CBTU consists of many IAM members, including IAM National Political and Legislative Director Hasan Solomon, who serves on the CBTU Executive Council.
“CBTU continues to be a beacon of solidarity and progress in the labor movement,” said IAM Human Rights Director Nicole L. Fears. “The IAM’s presence at this year’s convention signifies our commitment to advancing equality and justice for all workers.”
Visit the CBTU conference website to register and review all convention-related material.
400+ Illinois Auto Accessory Workers File to Join IAM Union with Backing from Congressman Chuy Garcia
WAUKEGAN, Ill., March 18, 2024 – Approximately 440 workers at Thermoflex in Waukeegan, Ill., who produce high-quality automobile floor and cargo mats, exterior trims and other accessories for major auto manufacturers, have filed to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). The IAM filed a National Labor Relations Board petition today, Monday, March 18 to represent the workers.
U.S. Rep. Chuy Garcia (D-Ill.) is throwing his support behind the campaign, which aims to create fair wage standards and working conditions for Thermoflex workers. Company management has been accused of unjustly disciplining and firing union supporters and workers have cited allegations of wage theft and sexual harassment.
“I understand that Thermoflex employees are organizing to form a union, and I write in support of the free exercise of your legal rights to unionize,” writes Rep. Garcia in an English and Spanish letter to Thermoflex workers. “I urge you to not allow intimidation tactics to dispel your efforts to unionize and negotiate fair wages and working conditions.”
Thermoflex workers, a majority of whom are Spanish-speaking immigrants, are seeking IAM representation because many make less than $20 an hour, have no company-provided health insurance, and no retirement benefits or paid time off.
“Thermoflex workers came to the IAM because they are in dire need of a union that will enable them to bargain collectively and restore dignity in the workplace,” said IAM Grand Lodge Representative Billy Anderson, lead organizer on the campaign. “These brave workers are standing up to the company’s intense anti-union campaign that is severely infringing on their federally protected right to organize. With the collective effort of the workers and the IAM, as well as the support of the community, they will get the justice they demand and deserve at Thermoflex.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America and represents nearly 600,000 active and retired members in the manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, transportation, automotive, railroad, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.
Más de 400 trabajadores de accesorios automotrices de Illinois solicitan unirse al sindicato de la IAM con el respaldo del congresista Chuy García
WAUKEGAN, Illinois., 18 de marzo de 2024 – Aproximadamente 440 trabajadores de Thermoflex en Waukeegan, Illinois, quienes laboran produciendo tapetes para pisos y carga de automóviles de alta calidad, adornos exteriores y otros accesorios para los principales fabricantes de automóviles, han solicitado unirse a la Asociación Internacional de Maquinistas y Trabajadores de la Industria Aeroespacial (IAM). La IAM presentó hoy lunes 18 de marzo una petición a la Junta Nacional de Relaciones Laborales para representar a los trabajadores.
El congresista Chuy García (Demócrata-Illinois) está brindando su apoyo a la campaña, cuyo objetivo es crear estándares salariales y condiciones laborales justas para los trabajadores de Thermoflex. La gerencia de la empresa ha sido acusada de disciplinar y despedir injustamente a simpatizantes del sindicato, y a la vez los trabajadores han citado denuncias de robo de salarios y acoso sexual.
“Entiendo que los empleados de Thermoflex se están organizando para formar un sindicato, y escribo en apoyo del libre ejercicio de sus derechos legales a sindicalizarse”, escribe el congresista García en una carta en inglés y español a los trabajadores de Thermoflex. “Les insto a que no permitan que las tácticas de intimidación malgasten sus esfuerzos por sindicalizarse y negociar salarios y condiciones de trabajo justos”.
Los trabajadores de Thermoflex, la mayoría de los cuales son inmigrantes de habla hispana, buscan representación de la IAM porque muchos ganan menos de $20 por hora, no tienen seguro médico proporcionado por la empresa, ni beneficios de jubilación ni tiempo libre remunerado.
“Los trabajadores de Thermoflex acudieron a la IAM porque necesitan urgentemente un sindicato que les permita negociar colectivamente y restaurar la dignidad en el lugar de trabajo”, dijo el representante de la Gran Logia de la IAM y principal organizador de la campaña Billy Anderson. “Estos valientes trabajadores están haciendo frente a una intensa campaña antisindical por parte de la empresa que infringe gravemente su derecho a organizarse el cual es protegido por el gobierno federal. Con el esfuerzo colectivo de los trabajadores y de la IAM, así como el apoyo de la comunidad, obtendrán la justicia que exigen y merecen en Thermoflex”.
La Asociación Internacional de Maquinistas y Trabajadores de la Industria Aeroespacial (IAM) se encuentra entre los sindicatos industriales más grandes de América del Norte y representa a cerca de 600,000 miembros activos y jubilados en los sectores manufacturero, aeroespacial, defensa, aerolíneas, transporte, automoción, ferrocarriles, construcción naval, carpintería y atención médica y otras industrias.
“THIS IS WHY WE FIGHT.” NP MARATEA APPLAUDS SENATE COMMITTEE ADVANCING REEF ACT.
On Wednesday, March 6th, the Senate Budget Committee passed the Railroad Employee Equity and Fairness (REEF) Act out of committee.
The bill, which passed the committee with unanimous bipartisan support, would remove railroad retirement benefits from budget sequestration. In the Budget Control Act of 2011, a 5.7% cut was mandated for railroad retirement unemployment and sickness benefits through fiscal year 2030. Railroaders are the only people to have their unemployment and sickness benefits subject to sequestration, even though railroad retirement benefits are fully funded and paid for by railroaders and railroads.
“I appreciate the Senate Budget Committee for unanimously supporting railroaders today and thank Chair Whitehouse for bringing up this important piece of legislation for railroad workers,” said NP Maratea. He continued, “railroaders play a critical role in keeping our country’s supply chain moving and the traveling public safe and deserve better than to be subject to cuts of a program that they have fully paid into. Especially in the midst of mass layoffs and furloughs at several class I railroads, every bit of these benefits that railroaders have rightfully earned is vital for feeding their families and keeping them afloat.”
PRESIDENT MARATEA CONTINUES TO HIT THE ROAD MEETING WITH CLERKS AND CARMEN ON AMTRAK, BNSF, TTX, INDIANA HARBOR BELT AND SOUTH SHORE FREIGHT MEMBERS.
TCU National President Maratea, National Secretary-Treasurer Stan Boyd, National Vice-President and Special assistant to the President Matt Hollis, BRC General President Don Grissom, BRC General Vice-President Darren Treiber and TCU National Vice-President Greg Kocialski visited members working on the job at locations in the Seattle Washington and Chicago areas.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic TCU members across the country have been working on the front lines, keeping the traveling public safe and making sure the country’s economy keeps moving. President Maratea praised them for their dedication. “I want to thank each member that worked so hard through the pandemic, I know the work was grueling but you all worked hard to get us through that and I am so proud of everyone.”
The recent Amtrak contract was discussed with the members and questions were answered on many topics.
The Carmen National Agreement and the recent addition of additional paid sick days were discussed. Local issues were discussed along with ideas and feedback for the improved representation of the members. The Chicago area showed a need for information on Railroad Retirement and an upcoming seminar will be held in November too provide members with access to the most current updates related to Railroad Retirement.
President Maratea said: “I enjoy meeting our members on the job, I am so proud of the work they do every day. It is critical for me to see for myself what our members do and what they deal with on the property.”
President Maratea continues to meet with members across the country.
Click here to see the pictures on the TCU Instagram feed.
UNION PLUS PROGRAMS
Since 1986, the Transportation Communications Union/IAM has endorsed the union member-only programs sponsored by Union Plus. Over the years, Union Plus has expanded its programs from their beginnings with the TCU/IAM MasterCard* program to now a wide range of money savings programs, all for union members only.
TCU fully supports the programs available to active and retired TCU members and their families. With the money savings programs available, the benefits can offset paid union dues in some situations.
With the REAL ESTATE REWARDS program, members buying or selling a home can earn $500 for every $100,000 in home value after closing by using a SIRVA pre-screened real estate agent (cashback available in certain states); through the UNION PLUS MORTGAGE, members can receive up to a $500 gift card after closing for purchasing or $300 for refinancing plus an additional gift card for first-time home buyers, while getting a mortgage at a competitive rate. Plus with the mortgage program, members receive special hardship assistance in case of disability, layoff, lockout or strike.
The UNION PLUS CREDIT CARD PROGRAM from Capital One is built for union members with benefits negotiated just for you and your family, like competitive rates, 24/7 US based-customer service, and access to hardship grants only available to cardholders. Learn more and find out if you’re pre-approved with no risk to your credit score at theunioncard.com or call 1-800-522-4000.
Need a UNION PLUS SCHOLARSHIP, members and their eligible dependents can apply to win a scholarship ranging from $500-$4,000.
Union Plus offers programs from saving money to financial assistance for those with a current Union Plus Mortgage; Credit Card or Loan. Also, through SAVE MY HOME HOTLINE, members having issues paying the mortgage and/or facing foreclosures can receive 24/7 free, confidential counseling from a fully-trained, HUD-certified counselor for advice and guidance that is personalized to their situation. Or those struggling to get control of debt, through UNION PLUS CREDIT COUNSELING, members can receive a free credit counseling session to help get them back on track financially.
Grants and benefits available for those who have been laid off or furloughed are available to members who currently hold a Union Plus personal loan; credit card or mortgage. Eligible and qualified members with a Union Plus Loan or Credit Cardholders can receive up to a $500 grant. Eligible and qualified members with a Union Plus Mortgage can receive an interest-free loan to cover mortgage payments for up to six (6) months plus a one-time $1,000 grant.
Need a new phone or wireless service, look to the AT&T WIRELESS PROGRAM. The only nationwide unionized wireless carrier. Discounts include percentages off on qualified plans; accessories; waived activation fees.
Everyday Discounts are available through UNION PLUS ABENITY, from fashion to beauty, dining, movie tickets and electronics to everyday household items from national and local retailers.
Looking for Vision, Dental, Prescription & Hearing Savings, look at the UNION PLUS HEALTH SAVINGS PROGRAM. For a low monthly premium, members only pay $50 for eye exams and receive 35% off frames and more; discounts of 20-50% for dental services; up to 65% off prescriptions; and discounts on hearing services.
Union Plus offers many other programs to save members money while knowing these discounts are only for union members, including car rental discounts; entertainment discounts, vacation and travel services; moving discounts and more.
Need more information on a particular program? Members can go to Union Plus at https://www.unionplus.org/tcu-iam.
*Disclaimer: Mastercard and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.
TCU RELEASES 2024 FRINGE BENEFIT INFORMATION
Cost of Wages and Fringe Benefits as of January 2024:
Celebrating Black History: IAM Spotlights Harvey Williams
The IAM Human Rights Department has taken on its own identity within the IAM, with the sole purpose of advancing equality and justice.
This February, the IAM Human Rights Department is featuring accomplished IAM members of the Black community in celebration of Black History Month.
IAM members being honored for Black History Month are among the many trailblazers in our union.
Harvey Williams
Nominated by: IAM Midwest Territory
IAM Associate Organizer Harvey Williams became an IAM member in May 2015, when he was hired on at Whirlpool as a team lead in Amana, Iowa. Harvey joined the Midwest Territory staff as an Associate Organizer in January 2023.
He works throughout the Midwest Territory on internal and external organizing campaigns. Williams has a distinct grassroots style of engagement. He connects to new and potential members with an innovative approach.
In speaking with Williams, he immediately tunes into you as a person. Williams’ unique perspective can only provide a brighter future for growing the membership of the IAM. Williams is married to Breanna, has six children, and resides in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
New LCLAA Report Examines How Latino Workers, Labor Movement Can Further Unite
The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) released its annual report “Latino Workers and Unions: A Strategic Partnership for America’s Success,” which examines the unique partnership the labor movement and the Latino community can achieve together.
The report explores how unions are actively seeking new members and how Latinos are looking for secure employment and fair wages, which union jobs can provide. This collaboration can be beneficial for both parties by enhancing the working conditions of employees and preserving a movement that has played a vital role in transforming the American workforce.
The report covers several main areas of interest, providing a detailed examination of the impact of organized labor, the demographics, and the modern challenges faced by Latino workers in their personal and professional lives. It highlights the positive impact of unions on this community, along with the particular difficulties faced by Latinas in the labor market. Additionally, it explains how an increase in civic participation among Latinos can benefit both their communities and the broader labor movement.
“This report highlights important issues and obstacles that Latinos still face and the significance of unions,” said IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes. “The IAM has always been a supporter of the advancement and rights of all workers, and the report’s discoveries and proposed solutions only reinforce our commitment to groups like LCLAA.”
The IAM proudly has four members on the LCLAA Executive Board, including General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes, Western Territory General Vice President Gary R. Allen, Midwest Territory Grand Lodge Representative Geny Ulloa, and Southern Territory Special Representative John Vigueras. Through the efforts of strong IAM representation within LCLAA, the organization has expanded its influence and currently represents more than 2 million unionized Latino workers.
Union Plus Programs for TCU Members
TCU fully supports the programs available for active and retired TCU members and their families. With the money savings programs available, in some situations, the benefits can offset paid union dues.
JANUARY 2024 UNION PLUS PROGRAMS
Don’t miss out on Union Plus Scholarships for Union families, with awards ranging from $500 to $4,000. Apply by 12 pm EST, January 31, 2024. Apply here: UnionPlusEducation
Vacation more in 2024 with Union Plus! Get up to 50% off worldwide on hotels, luxury resorts, and more with TCU/IAM union member-exclusive online bookings from Priceline. Post-holiday getaway, three-day weekend, or just a last-minute trip – there’s a deal for YOU! To book your next stay click here: UnionPlusTravel
TCU/IAM union members – you deserve big savings from the biggest car rental companies. Enjoy up to 35%* off from Avis, Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, Payless, National, Alamo, Dollar and Thrifty! Terms apply. Click here: UnionPlusRentalCar
Home and auto insurance savings are available to TCU/IAM union members like you! The start of a new year is the perfect time to get multiple insurance quotes from top insurance companies and choose the policies that may be right for you through Farmers Insurance Choice®*. UnionPlusAutoInsurance
*Disclaimer: Message produced and initiated by Union Privilege, 1100 First Street, NE, Suite 850, Washington, DC 20002. CA license #0E89960; NY license #1058096. Farmers Insurance Choice is used by agents, like Farmers General Insurance Agency, Inc. (CA License #0D25399) to provide a choice of providers, not just Farmers GroupSelect® companies. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Property and Casualty Insurance or certain of its affiliates: Economy Fire & Casualty Company, Economy Preferred Insurance Company, Farmers Casualty Insurance Company, Farmers Direct Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Farmers Group Property and Casualty Insurance Company, or Farmers Lloyds Insurance Company of Texas, all with administrative home offices in Warwick, RI. List of licenses at www.farmers.com. Coverage, rates, discounts, and policy features vary by state and product and are available in most states to those who qualify. © 2023 Union Privilege, Inc., provider of Union Plus benefits
2023 Grievance Handling Update
Since June of 2022, TCU/IAM members received over 1.7 million dollars as a direct result of grievance settlements on the property and/or arbitration awards.
“Filing grievances to protect our members and our work is the primary responsibility of every TCU/IAM Representative. This is absolutely necessary to protect our contracts and ensure our future. 1.7 million dollars directly into the pockets of our members in the last year, that is fantastic! Nothing will stop our union from fighting for our members”- Artie Maratea
One of nation’s key labor leaders, North Texan Robert Martinez, is retiring:
In Fort Worth lies a lineage of union men. A grandfather, father and son. Each generation introduced the next to the principles of the working class — how to stand in solidarity with other workers and how a union could provide stability for families. For now, this story ends with Robert Martinez Jr., the international president of one of the largest labor unions in the U.S.
TRANSPORTATION COMMUNICATIONS UNION
LOCAL LODGE 1043
The TCU SBA Benefit Trust Medical Copay Program is going digital
TCU Health and Welfare Fund is excited to share that we’ve partnered with TempoPay to enhance our
Medical Copay Reimbursement Program. Making it faster and simpler to access and use your copay
funds for medical care.
What’s changing:
- Access funds faster: No more manual claims or waiting for checks in the mail.
- Digital app and payment: Use a mobile app to register your account and access funds.
o A $200 allowance is loaded to a virtual payment card in the app. Physical cards can be
requested through the app. - Many ways to pay: Tap, swipe, or provide your TempoPay card number at the doctor’s office to
pay medical copays for you and your family.
o TempoPay cards will only work at the doctor’s office, otherwise the payment will be
declined.
What’s staying the same: - TempoPay funds can only be used to pay for medical copays at the doctor.
- You will still manually submit claims for reimbursement on prescription-related copays up to $100
o Email your prescription receipt and claim form to tcucopayreimbursements@tcunion.org
or by mail to TCU Offices at 260 W 35th Street, 10th Floor, New York, NY 10001
What you need to do:
- Keep an eye out for emails coming from TempoPay starting June 30.
- Starting June 30, download the TempoPay app on your smart phone and register.
- Once registered, your virtual card is funded and can be used right away. Request a physical card
if you need one. - Help us spread the word to other TCU Health & Welfare members so everyone can access
their reimbursement funds and stay healthy!
CHECK OUT BRC GENERAL PRESIDENT DON GRISSOM IN THE FAULT LINES DOCUMENTARY “INVESTIGATING US RAILROAD SAFETY”
Q&A: UNEMPLOYMENT AND SICKNESS BENEFITS FOR RAILROAD EMPLOYEES
The Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) administers the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act (RUIA), which provides two kinds of benefits for qualified railroaders: unemployment benefits for those who become unemployed but are ready, willing, and able to work; and sickness benefits for those who are unable to work because of sickness or injury. Sickness benefits are also payable to female rail workers for periods of time when they are unable to work because of health conditions related to pregnancy, miscarriage, or childbirth. A new benefit year begins each July 1.
Click here to read the questions and answers that describe these benefits, their eligibility requirements, and how to apply for and claim them. It also explains how the recent resumption of a Federal sequestration order reduces benefit rates.
