AFA Flightlog 49, NO 1, Legislative Issue VOL Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO

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FAA Volume 49, No. 1, Legislative Issue

Flight Attendants Gain Inclusion Flightlog in Known Crewmember Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO n July 23, 2012, after numerous face-to-face meetings between AFA and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), as well as AFA testimonies before Congress, the TSA announced that Flight Attendants OFFICERS O International President – Veda M. Shook will be included in Known Crewmember (KCM), an alternate screening pro- International Vice President – Sara Nelson gram that utilizes real-time security clearance for aviation’s most trusted travel- International Secretary-Treasurer – Kevin P. Creighan ers – crewmembers. This was possible because MASTER EXECUTIVE COUNCIL PRESIDENTS the Obama Administration values AirTran (ATR) – Alison Head Air Wisconsin (ARW) – Brenda J. Barrall workers’ rights. As an agency Alaska (ALA) – Jeffrey Peterson of the Department of Homeland KNOWN America West (AMW) – Deborah Volpe Security (DHS), TSA priorities are CREWMEMBER American Eagle (AMR) – Robert Barrow guided by DHS Secretary Janet Security Screening for All Crewmembers Compass (CPZ) – Catriona M. Bagley Napolitano, who is appointed Continental (CAL) – Marcus Valentino For more information, visit: Continental Micronesia (CMI) – Suzanne Hendricks by the president. On March 21, www.afacwa.org and click on Frontier (FA9) – Kathryn Weiss AFA International President Veda “Known Crewmember” on the left. Hawaiian (HAL) – Sharon Soper Shook met directly with Secretary Horizon (HRZ) – Kathleen Bruni Napolitano to discuss aviation Mesa (MSA) – Chantil Huskey Miami (MIA) – Natasha Glasper security issues, including KCM. By gaining access to KCM, we are reap- Omni International (OAI) – Michelle Oden ing the benefits of having elected a Flight Attendant-friendly president to the Piedmont (PED) – Anita Jwanouskos White House. Pinnacle (PCL) – Terry J. French As first responders, Flight Attendants hold a primary stake in aviation PSA Airlines (PSA) – L. C. Acor security and AFA continues to support 100 percent screening of all individuals Ryan International (RYN) – Mary Lou Riley Spirit (SPR) – Todd St. Pierre who have access to our airplanes. We are the last line of defense in aviation United (UAL) – Gregory E. Davidowitch security and we approach our role within the safety network with the utmost US Airways (USA) – Roger Holmin seriousness. The leading advocate for Flight Attendant inclusion since the program was AFA-CWA DEPARTMENTS first conceived, AFA left no stone unturned. We worked in partnership with (800) 424-2401 (toll-free) (202) 434-1300 the TSA and we commend their commitment to risk-based security screen- Accounting ing. After delivering multiple testimonies to congressional committees and Air Safety, Health & Security participating in many meetings with high level government officials, AFA suc- Collective Bargaining ceeded in making the case that Flight Attendants should be included in KCM, Communications & Research as the testing phase was completed. In their unwavering support for Flight Employee Assistance Program Government Affairs Attendants, Congressional Representatives Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), and Legal Bennie Thompson (D-MS) and Senator Mary Landrieu (D-LA) were champi- Membership Services ons of this issue. We will not forget their support at the polls in November. Organizing Our partnership with the TSA continues as we work together to ensure Flightlog the success of this program. We are also working with our airlines to press for Production Director – Darlene Dobbs inclusion of Flight Attendants into KCM databases by year’s end, when the Senior Writer/Editor – Susanne Lowen program is expected to be introduced at more than 30 airports. Designer – Liani Setyawan Our shared goal with our allies in industry and government is to take a risk-based approach to security in our nation’s aviation system. This success was a product of working closely with ALPA, our counterpart union in the cockpit at many of our carriers, and with the Flight Attendant Coalition. KCM recognizes our role as first responders and allows us to report to work with greater ease. Many of us are working longer hours and thousands of us commute to work by plane. Our lives will be improved by the time saved each time we pass through a KCM airport. KCM will not only help to end the FLIGHTLOG (ISSN 0164-8689) need to cut to the front of the security line to reach our planes on time, it will Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, Communi­cations allow the TSA to provide better service and will benefit our passengers. Department, 501 Third Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001- 2797. (202) 434-1300. Postmaster: Send address changes AFA is fully committed to providing each and every Flight Attendant with to Flightlog, 501 Third Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001- the tools and information necessary to ensure the success of this program and 2797. Annual subscriptions to AFA members included in the integrity of our nation’s aviation security network. membership dues. All other subscriptions $14.00 per year. Postage paid at Washington, DC 20001-2797, non-profit permit. Advertising in this magazine does not represent an endorsement by AFA or its members. Copyright ©2012 Association of Flight Attendants-CWA. Affiliated with the AFL-CIO. From Your International Officers Veda M. Shook AFA-CWA International President Sara Nelson AFA-CWA International Vice President Kevin P. Creighan AFA-CWA International Secretary-Treasurer

L to R: AFA International Officers Kevin Creighan, Veda Shook and Sara Nelson.

his issue of Flightlog is dedicated to the upcoming These contrasting approaches amplify the impor- November 2012 elections and its impact on issues tance of a fundamental role of the President of the Tthat directly affect our Flight Attendant profes- United States: appointing the cabinet officials who will sion. The issue also contains updates on bargaining and lead government agencies and departments. The Federal other initiatives in our union as this election will affect Aviation Administration, the Transportation Security everything we do to defend and advance our careers. Administration, the National Mediation Board, and the The AFA Legislative Policy Committee reports on Departments of Labor, Transportation and Homeland key House and Senate races and spells out the positions Security decide many aspects of our profession that of the two presidential candidates insofar as they affect define our daily work lives. For example, the inclusion our lives as Flight Attendants. We also address the voter of Flight Attendants in Known Crewmember (KCM) suppression tactics that threaten voting rights in states is the direct result of our work with these officials, and throughout the country, along with instructions on how with key Members of Congress (see article on page 2). to make sure that you are able to exercise your right to These and many factors were taken into careful vote in these all-important elections. consideration when the 2012 AFA Board of Directors In a climate where airlines have become global endorsed Barack Obama for a second term as President commodities; where outsourcing is the new economic of the United States. It was a decision based exclusively norm for airline service work; and where consolidation on the future of our profession—a future that must rec- has reshaped our industry, our unions and our right to ognize our work as first responders and safety profes- vote are all that stand between returning our profession sionals in a strong and vibrant aviation system. AFA is to the days of age and weight limits. committed to a political agenda that transcends party To remain competitive in the global economy, our lines, always seeking to support candidates who support country needs leaders willing to invest in our infrastruc- the Flight Attendant profession, aviation security and ture and to protect American jobs from outsourcing. labor. Conversely, we cannot elect leaders willing to let corpo- We respect your right to discuss and form inde- rations dismantle contracts through bankruptcy to con- pendent opinions on the candidates: it is what keeps the centrate profits for the 1% and strip employee benefits, democratic process alive. Through that process we iden- at a time when worker productivity is skyrocketing. The tify our differences as well as our common ground. In choice is clear for working families. the interest of our collective future as Flight Attendants, This November, American voters will again choose our common ground is where our power lies. We must between two disparate approaches to policy-making: a elect an administration that supports our profession, our progressive, pro-worker agenda that strengthens the mid- industry and the middle class. dle class and rejuvenates our industry and profession, or Above all else, we urge you to make sure you are the aggressive, ideology designed to line the pockets of registered to vote, especially those of you in states where the 1%, furthering the all-out assault on the middle class, the rules have changed. The future of our jobs, our attacking workers’ rights to organize, join unions and industry and the American middle class depends on your collectively bargain. vote this November.

www.afacwa.org Flightlog [3] ELECTION 2012 Strong Unions Make a Strong Middle Class

he American middle class is under attack. Anti-labor politi- Tcians are pushing legislation to curb, or entirely eliminate, collective bargaining rights for working women and men. This attack on workers ignores one simple fact: Unions are a major force in building and sustaining the American middle class. After the Great Depression, as union membership grew, real family incomes doubled. As workers’ pro- ductivity increased, wages increased proportionately. However, union membership began to decline in the late 1970s. In 1981, when President Ronald Reagan fired the air traffic controllers who were striking for bet- ter wages and working conditions, Corporate America was handed a carte blanche to union bust. This resulting shift in government policies snowballed into the all-out attack on workers’ rights and erosion of the middle class that we are up against today. Organized labor has an essential role in our economy: to provide the checks and balances that maintain fairness, equality, social justice, dignity and respect for the rights of workers, including the right to freely choose union representation. By mak- ing our voices heard, we can chal- lenge the corporate agenda of the 1% union busting and restricts a worker’s must remain vigilant and engaged in and begin to benefit from the prosper- right to organize and bargain for a always defending our rights. ity that we create with our work. better life. As union membership has The NMB has also helped to The shift in bargaining power declined, so has income equality for protect our contracts. AFA challenged away from workers and towards man- middle class families. management and convinced the NMB agement executives is the direct result Over the past four years, while that the Pinnacle/Mesaba/Colgan of a corporate agenda that promotes working people and our unions have merger resulted in a single carrier been under attack, the Obama admin- for purposes of Flight Attendant istration has taken some progressive representation. This resulted in a steps in defense of workers’ rights. union representation election and, on For example, in an effort to pro- July 16, 2012, the merged Pinnacle, “Voting is not vide fairness for workers, President Mesaba and Colgan Flight Attendants only a privilege, Obama appointed Linda Puchala elected AFA as their union. but essential for to the National Mediation Board Management was not able to define (NMB). This more worker-friendly away our representation rights. maintaining our NMB changed its election manual On November 6, make sure the democracy.” to correct an undemocratic election candidate you choose will support rule. What followed was a vicious your right to have a voice at work and response by industry-backed legisla- bargain for a strong future. This is Denise Belanger, tors that made it more difficult for the way to support a strong American Alaska-SEA an election to even take place. We middle class.

[4] Flightlog Legislative Issue ELECTION 2012 EDITORIAL What’s At Stake? Connecting the Dots. By US Airways Flight Attendant Alin Boswell, AFA Legislative Policy Committee Chair

very election cycle there seems given state secures those electoral votes. expect anything better than what we to be a common mantra such Second place gets nothing. Not voting, have because of lax bankruptcy rules Eas, “This is the most important to me, has never been an option. and weakened labor laws. Without the election of our lifetime!” Don’t get me In the past decade, we have been support of members of Congress, these wrong, every election is important and affected by many decisions of previous rules will be slow to change and could there is more at stake in a presidential administrations and Congress that have worsen. It is time to elect representa- election than deciding who will reside turned the clock back by years on our tives who are committed to putting at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue for the collective bargaining. These include working families first and to rebuilding next four years. Much like tossing a changes to the bankruptcy code that the middle class. rock in a pond, the ripple effect of your favor employers and lack of OSHA Lasting change can be slow in decision in this election will reverberate protections. They also include a three- coming. With an economy moving across Washington and the nation for and-a-half year uphill battle for Family in the right direction and an industry years to come. and Medical Leave coverage that this that has stabilized but is still on shaky When you drive around president signed into law. We all know ground, the trajectory of our careers Washington, DC you quickly realize that nothing comes easily when deal- may well be decided on November 6th. that hundreds of staffing decisions ing with Washington. AFA’s legislative The ripple effect of this election will be are made by the president in numer- goals can only continue to be achieved felt across Washington and reverberate ous agencies that have direct conse- when we have members of Congress in the boardrooms of every US indus- quences in our every day life. From the and a president who share our common try, including aviation. From the White White House, it is a stone’s throw to vision of building a stronger middle House to Congress, from your airline to the Department of Labor (DOL), the class and putting working families first, your home, your choices this November Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), not corporations. are important and have consequences. the Department of Transportation My other favorite statement is “But You have a decision to make: Will you (DOT) and the National Mediation I am a Republican!” Do you vote for toss that proverbial rock in the pond Board (NMB), which all have a direct a candidate even when their policies this election? impact on our careers in the airline are in conflict with your best economic As always, your vote is a personal industry. Without the oversight of the interest? I am neither a Republican nor choice with many factors to consider. NMB, we have no bargaining rights; a Democrat: I vote for the candidates Remember that every vote counts in an the DOL governs how employers treat who will best represent my interests, my election and party lines may not always employees; and the work of the FAA views and my priorities in Washington. be in our best interest. If you are not and DOT directly affect our working Just because AFA is a labor union does already registered to vote, take the time conditions so we return safely to our not mean we are limited to supporting now to register and be sure to cast your families. The work of these agencies members of a single party. AFA works vote either in person or by absentee bal- reflects the appointments made by the across party lines to achieve many of lot. Whatever the requirements for your president. We must never forget that the our critical legislative goals. state, county or city, make sure you are decisions we and our families make at For the last couple of years, our registered and your vote is counted. the ballot box in November affect our industry has been improving economi- workplace, including our compensation. cally but many of us still have yet to So why is it that I sometimes hear fully benefit from that success. Our from my flying partners on the jump- companies continue a “race to the bot- “We can make seat, “My vote doesn’t count”? Thanks tom” philosophy when it comes to to the Electoral College, AFA has many wages, benefits and work rules. How a difference by members in key battleground states many times have we all heard our pay getting out to who will ultimately decide this election. rates must be in line with the “industry vote. Even one In the winner-take-all approach to the standard”? Is there an industry standard Electoral College, second place garners for CEO pay? vote can make you nothing. Each state has a predeter- In simple terms, what our CEOs changes! Express mined number of electoral votes and the and some leaders in Congress are say- yourself!” magic number to win is 270. Whichever ing is that our work is not worthy of Janet Berka, United-JFK candidate secures the most votes in any better compensation and we shouldn’t

www.afacwa.org Flightlog [5] ELECTION 2012 AFA Endorses Candidates Who Support Flight Attendants

hese candidates for the Following surgery, Tammy bravely she was a strong advocate for Flight House of Representatives, recuperated at Walter Reed Army Attendants. Tthree challengers and one Medical Center and subsequently Representative Titus stood with former Representative, have been returned home to suburban Chicago. us to achieve equal access to FMLA endorsed by the AFA Political/ With the encouragement of Senator and she voted against taxation of Legislative Policy Committee based Dick Durbin (D-IL) and many others, union-negotiat- upon their record and answers to she came back to run for Congress – ed health care our AFA Congressional Candidate to stand up against an agenda that she benefits. She Questionnaire. If you live in one of knew firsthand was taking our coun- took a strong the districts they seek to represent, we try in the wrong direction. AFA stood stand when hope that you will give your full sup- with Tammy during that race and we she signed on port to these Flight Attendant-friendly continue to support her because of to a letter to candidates. her longstanding support of Flight the National Attendants. Mediation Tammy Duckworth (D) Tammy lost that race by fewer Board (NMB) Candidate for Illinois 8th than 5,000 votes, but never stopped to revise the Congressional District fighting. She continued to serve in biased voting procedures that govern www.tammyduckworth.com the National Guard, became Illinois’ representation elections in the airline In 2005, Director of Veterans’ Affairs and, in industry. She also supports legislative Tammy was 2009, President Obama appointed her efforts to prevent the outsourcing of piloting an Assistant Secretary of the Department our jobs. Army Black of Veterans’ Affairs. She never let Representative Titus advo- Hawk helicop- her injuries hold her back – she’s cated for swift passage of the TSA ter that was completed three marathons and even Authorization Act and the need for shot down regained her pilot’s license last year. increased Flight Attendant security by insurgents Like so many of us, Tammy was training saying, “Flight Attendants in Iraq. She dismayed by the unacceptable behav- are the only working group in the ended up ior of Tea Party leader Joe Walsh, cabin aboard every commercial flight. losing both of her legs, partial use her opponent in the general election. They are literally on the front lines. of her arm and is lucky to be alive. Walsh has not supported a single They are an integral part of air secu- Flight Attendant issue, having specifi- rity.” She called security training “an cally diminished the role of Flight important step in ensuring our skies Attendants in congressional testi- are as secure as they can be.” mony. We need members of Congress Dina Titus is looking to regain who understand the importance of her position as a member of the 113th “Today, the Flight Attendants and our critical role Congress where she will continue to survival of the in protecting the safety and health of fight for worker and Flight Attendant Middle Class millions of passengers every year. issues. and all of labor’s Dina Titus (D) Denny Heck (D) victories over Candidate for Nevada 3rd Candidate for Washington District #10 the past 200-plus Congressional District www.dennyheckforcongress.com www.dinatitus.com Denny Heck is uniquely Linda M. Ulanski, years depend As a first term member of the qualified to be the first member of United-DCA on exercising 111th Congress in Nevada’s 3rd Congress from Washington’s 10th our right to vote. District, Rep. Dina Titus wasted congressional district. He is one of Ours is a government of the no time in proving that she is a the few candidates for Congress with Flight Attendant ally. In her role experience in the public, private and people, by the people and for as a member of the Transportation non-profit sectors. the people; not of, by and for and Infrastructure Committee, the Denny served in the Washington the corporation.” Education and Labor Committee, and the Homeland Security Committee, Continued on page 7

[6] Flightlog Legislative Issue ELECTION 2012 Candidate Checklist

s November 6 approaches, your candidate has to say about workers are protected or do Americans are increas- these issues. they think this should be left Aingly inundated with cam- up to corporations and the paign ads on TV, radio, Internet, Workers’ Rights protections in regulations email, snail mail, etc. We can all • What are their views on the eliminated? thank the Supreme Court for their right to join a union? • y Do the believe OSHA is 2010 decision, Citizens United vs. • y Do the believe workers essential for worker safety or Federal Election Commission (558 should have a voice and the does OSHA interfere with an U.S. 50), which allows corpora- rights on the job that union employer’s profit? tions to spend unlimited resources membership affords them? to persuade the voting public in • y Would the vote for the Employment support of a candidate or issues. Employee Free Choice Act • What is their stance on out- To filter out the noise and and similar legislation that sourcing and offshoring? find out if a candidate supports encourages democratic voting • y Do the believe we should the issues important to our Flight for union representation? protect U.S. aviation by Attendant profession, we’ve pre- excluding foreign carriers pared a checklist of additional Safety and Health of Workers from competing for routes issues you may want to consider • y Do the believe safety and in the U.S. and restricting when deciding upon a candidate. health should be regulated by foreign ownership of U.S. air- Take a few minutes to see what the proper agency to ensure lines?

AFA Endorses from page 6 from California’s District 41, Mark the changing threats of our skies,” will draw upon his experiences as a said Takano. State House of Representatives for teacher and local leader to bring eco- Born and raised in Riverside, nearly a decade and was chosen to nomic growth, CA, Mark graduated from La Sierra serve as Majority Leader before retir- new jobs, High School as the school’s vale- ing in 1986. After his time in the cleaner air and dictorian. He then attended Harvard legislature, Denny served as Chief better educa- College, received his bachelor’s of Staff to tional oppor- degree in government, and returned Governor tunities home home to obtain his secondary teach- Booth Gardner to Riverside ing credential at the University of during his County. California at Riverside. Today, he second term. A mem- works to improve the lives of young A strong ber of the people as a teacher at Rialto High advocate of California School. open govern- Teachers Association since 1987, ment he co- Mark was first elected to the founded TVW, Riverside Community College Washington District Board of Trustees with the State’s version of C-Span in order to endorsement of the Central Labor “It is important to increase government accountability Council of Riverside and San vote because the and transparency. Denny Heck has Bernardino Counties, AFL-CIO, in spent the last decade in the real world 1990. During his tenure on the board, people we elect growing businesses and creating jobs. he has been a strong advocate for stand up for our frontline union members. rights to better Mark Takano (D) “As we continue to improve our Candidate for California 41st air system, we must seek to improve pay, benefits, Congressional District the working conditions for our Flight labor protections Maximo Collazo, www.marktakano.com Attendants. We can help our Flight and work envi- American Eagle-JFK Mark Takano is running to rep- Attendants respond to security threats resent Riverside County in the U.S. by providing them appropriate tools, ronment.” Congress. As the next Congressman information, and skills to respond to

www.afacwa.org Flightlog [7] ELECTION 2012 Electing a Congress that Supports Flight Attendants

t their June meeting, members of the AFA Colorado Political/Legislative Policy Committee looked District 6: Challenger Joe Miklosi (D) Aat key races in districts with significant Flight Attendant populations — races where we can make a dif- Florida ference. Listed here are recommendations to help you District 25: Incumbent Congressman when you go to the polls on November 6, as we work to Mario Diaz-Balart (R) maintain a worker-friendly majority in the Senate and District 27: Incumbent Congresswoman to restore balance to the House. Let’s make sure Flight Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R) Attendant-friendly candidates win their races! Illinois United States House of Representatives District 8: Challenger Tammy Duckworth (D) Every two years, the entire House of Representatives District 11: “open seat” former Congressman is up for re-election. In addition to the 435 full members Bill Foster (D) of the House, elections are also held for the delegates from the District of Columbia and the five major U.S. territories Maryland – American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, District 6: Challenger John Delaney (D) Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This year, almost 60 House seats are “open” which means that the sitting Massachusetts member has either announced a retirement, lost a primary, District 4: “open seat” Joe Kennedy (D) resigned or is seeking another elected position. District 6: Incumbent Congressman John Tierney (D) The AFA Political/Legislative Policy Committee looked at districts near Flight Attendant crew bases and Nevada identified districts where Flight Attendant support can District 1: “open seat” Dina Titus (D) make a difference. We recommend support for the candi- dates listed in bold below. New Jersey: Arizona District 2: Incumbent Congressman Frank LoBiondo (R) District 7: Incumbent Congressman Raúl Grijalva (D) District 8: Incumbent Congressman Ron Barber (D) New York California District 1: Incumbent Congressman Tim Bishop (D) District 4: Incumbent Congresswoman District 24: Incumbent Congresswoman Lois Capps (D) Carolyn McCarthy (D) District 32: Incumbent Congresswoman District 18: Challenger Sean Maloney (D) Grace Napolitano (D) District 34: Incumbent Congresswoman Ohio Lucille Roybal-Allard (D) District 9: Incumbent Marcy Kaptur (D) District 41: “open seat” Mark Takana (D) District 16: Incumbent Congresswoman Betty Sutton (D)* Minnesota District 8: Challenger Rick Nolan (D) Tennessee District 9: Incumbent Congressman Steven Cohen (D) “My vote gives me a voice in the Virginia issues that are District 11: Incumbent Congressman Gerald Connolly (D) important to me Washington and my family.” District 10: “open seat” Denny Heck (D)

Judi J. Shipler, Alaska-SEA * Betty Sutton’s congressional district was eliminated as a result of redistricting so she is running in the 16th district.

[8] Flightlog Legislative Issue ELECTION 2012 Electing a Congress that Supports Flight Attendants

United States Senate Nevada There are 100 members of the Senate, two from each The election of Congresswoman Shelley Berkley (D) state, who are elected to six-year terms. Currently the in this Nevada race will be crucial for control of the Senate. Democrats hold a slim majority in the Senate; however Incumbent Dean Heller (R) was appointed to the Senate by 10 of the 33 seats will be “open” races due to retirements the Nevada Governor after John Ensign resigned. which could shift the balance of power. The battle for the Senate could be decided by the races Ohio in these 12 swing states. Long-time AFA hero Senator Sherrod Brown (D) faces competition from the Ohio state treasurer whose Arizona administration tried to obliterate the collective bargaining Congressman Jeff Flake, one of only nine members to rights of public workers. vote against FMLA protections, is the Republican candi- date. As of press time, the Democratic challenger had not Virginia been determined but, given Flake’s zero support for Flight In a partisan race, former Governor Tim Kaine (D) Attendant issues, we urge you to vote for the Democratic faces former Senator George Allen (R). Allen voted against candidate. Flight Attendant certification in a close vote before the Commerce Committee. And, when Northwest Airlines Florida tried to offshore international flying, he refused to support Re-electing incumbent Senator Bill Nelson (D) who efforts to stop their attempts. is facing competition from Republican challengers is cru- cial to avoiding a Senate that would work against us. Wisconsin AFA supporter Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin (D) Hawaii faces an uphill battle against challenger Tommy AFA hero Congresswoman Mazie Hirono (D) will Thompson (R). have a tough threat from former Republican governor Linda Lingle (R). Indiana Incumbent Richard Lugar (R) lost his primary creat- ing an opportunity for AFA supporter Congressman Joe Donnelly (D). Massachusetts Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren (D) faces a “As a member strong challenge from incumbent Senator Scott Brown (R). of the Army Montana Reserves, I have Incumbent Senator Jon Tester (D) who has been a been to places in champion of bankruptcy reform hopes to hold onto his the world where seat. people die every Michigan day for the right Tracie M. Ward, Incumbent Senator Debbie Stabenow (D) who to have a say United-DCA opposed efforts to outsource Flight Attendant jobs to for- in shaping their eign nationals faces a tight race in Michigan. future and the future of their Missouri families… As a citizen of this Incumbent Senator Claire McCaskill (D) who led nation and as a member of the charge to protect our seniority integration rights in a our union, I have the ability to merger faces tough competition in this solidly Republican- leaning state. shape the future of my profes- sion. My voice will be heard!”

www.afacwa.org Flightlog [9] ELECTION 2012 Who’s on Your Side? A Candidate Comparison

Union Representation Supports fair democratic elections that level the playing field Does not support workers’ rights. He opposes the Employee for union workers and collective bargaining including the Free Choice Act, would make it harder for unions to orga- Employee Free Choice Act. nize workers and would repeal the National Mediation Board (NMB) election manual rule change (see: mittromney.com/ issues/labor). Romney said, “If a ‘Right to Work’ piece of legislation reached my desk at the federal level, I would sign it.” This would effectively rescind your collective bargaining rights and union contracts. Outsourcing Supports legislation aimed at fighting corporate outsourcing Supports policies that make it easier for corporations to out- of jobs overseas (U.S. Call Center and Consumer Protection source jobs. At a presidential debate, he welcomed foreign Act. Sponsor: Rep. Tim Bishop, (D-NY)). investment in U.S. companies which, according to a 2012 report, would reward foreign outsourcing, putting American jobs in jeopardy. Health Care Signed into law the Affordable Care Act which allows young Will work to repeal the Affordable Care Act as quickly as pos- adults to stay on their parents’ health insurance plans until sible, pursuing policies that allow each state to craft its own their 26th birthday; ensures persons with pre-existing condi- health care reform plan for its citizens. He proposed letting tions are not denied medical coverage; provides women with states regulate insurance markets and care for the poor, unin- access to a wide range of preventive health services—mam- sured, and chronically ill. (Under this plan, airlines could shop mograms, cervical cancer screenings, and soon, birth con- around for the cheapest policy then decide to do business in trol—without a co-pay or deductible. that state.) Leadership Demonstrated commitment to workers by appointing per- Would “appoint a very different lineup than the president sons to high level positions such as Secretary of Labor Hilda assembled” (CBS evening news July 9, 2012). His cabinet Solis, who supports OSHA protections for Flight Attendants; would be selected from the private sector (industry). Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, who supports Known Crewmember for Flight Attendants; and Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, who supports a strong domestic aviation industry. President Obama appointed Linda Puchala and re-appointed Harry Hoglander to the NMB, making way for a more level playing field for workers under the Railway Labor Act, which governs aviation workers. Supreme Court Appointed Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan to Would nominate judges in the conservative mold of Justices replace retiring justices David Souter and John Paul Stevens, Scalia, Thomas, and Alito, who have granted freedom of respectively. Obama is committed to appointing justices who speech to corporations, as if they were persons. value individual citizen’s rights.

[10] Flightlog Legislative Issue ELECTION 2012

Check to see if you are registered Your Vote Is Your Voice: to vote TODAY Make It Heard!

If you need to update your voter absentee ballot. Deadlines for request- registration so that you can vote on ing and submitting absentee ballots Election Day, October 6 may be too vary from state to state. Contact your late. Some voter registration dead- state or local election office as soon as lines are as early as October 5, 2012. possible to confirm your eligibility to cast an absentee ballot and to ensure oting is at the core of our you do not miss the deadline for democratic way of life, but requesting a ballot, which can be as Vyour ability to exercise this early as one month before the election. fundamental right is not automatic: In After you have requested and www.longdistancevoter.org most states, you must register to vote received your absentee ballot, read before you can cast a vote at the polls. the instructions carefully to avoid any Voter registration deadlines vary, errors that could result in your ballot but can be as early as 30 days prior to not being counted. Also, be sure to Voting on Election Day an election. sign your name where required. If you Elections are governed and run Flight Attendants are not always return your absentee ballot by mail, by state governments, each of which able to predict our flight schedules be certain to affix a sufficient amount has its own rules for carrying out and may have no guarantee of being of postage to the return envelope to the mechanics of voting. Voters are able to go to the polls on Election prevent any delays in the delivery of assigned to a polling place based on Day. Most states allow anyone who is your ballot. the home address listed on their voter “absent on business” or “temporarily registration record. Registered voters out of the jurisdiction for any reason” Early Voting are required to go to their assigned to request an absentee ballot or to vote Some states allow voters to cast polling place, where they must show in person, at a designated site, prior to a ballot before Election Day, although proper identification before casting a Election Day. You may be eligible for several states have recently made early ballot. absentee or early voting. voting more difficult. Too often lost in the shuffle of Broadly defined, early voting is partisan politics and ten second sound Absentee Voting when a voter completes a ballot in per- bites is the reminder that each one To vote absentee in the General son at a jurisdiction’s election office or of us has a say in influencing our Election, you need to apply for an other designated polling place before future. As Election Day, November Election Day. 6, approaches, AFA and your Local Early voting dates and times vary Government Affairs Committees will by state. You can visit the League continue to provide you with informa- VOTER CHECKLIST of Women Voters’ web site, www. tion on how to register to vote and vote411.org, and go to the “Voting how to vote early or by absentee ballot • Confirm you are registered to vote in Your State” tab which has links to as well as providing you with informa- • Know how and when to apply for an state election offices. tion on the issues and the candidates. absentee ballot Your vote is your voice. Be sure • Know your options for early voting Overseas Voters to use it! • Know the voter identification require- All U.S. citizens living overseas, ments in your state including dual nationals and citizens • Know which polling place you are who have never lived or voted in the assigned to and what time the polls United States, should register to vote “If you don’t open and close and request their absentee ballot. U.S. vote, your voice • Become acquainted with the candi- Flight Attendants who reside overseas register to vote and request absen- will not be heard. dates and issues on the ballot tee ballots by filling out the Federal It’s our chance to • If you are living overseas, request your Post Card Application. This form is vote for working Federal Post Card Application to reg- available through the Overseas Vote ister and/or to request your absentee Foundation or from the Federal Voting families.” ballot. Assistance Program at www.fvap.gov Dee Strunk, US Airways-PHL

www.afacwa.org Flightlog [11] ELECTION 2012 On Our Side

he 2011 House Federal to preserve the new election rules. If Ed Perlmutter (D) Aviation Administration (FAA) your Representative is not listed here, Jared Polis (D) reauthorization bill included a we hope that you will remember their T Connecticut union-busting provision to overturn a failure to support fair and democratic National Mediation Board (NMB) rule elections when you cast your vote this Joe Courtney (D) that provides for fair and democratic November. Rosa DeLauro (D) union representation elections. This Jim Himes (D) newly created rule did away with an Alabama John Larson (D) unjust and antiquated requirement Terri Sewell (D) Christopher Murphy (D)† under which an election was not valid Alaska Delaware unless a majority cast a vote in the election. Before the NMB modernized Don Young (R) John Carney (D) Kathy Castor (D) its election procedures, any eligible Arizona voter who did not cast a vote was Ed Pastor (D) Florida automatically counted as a “no” vote, Raul Grijalva (D) Corrine Brown (D) a vote against having a union. No Mario Diaz-Balart (R) other election in the country or in any Arkansas Ted Deutch (D) democracy runs this way and the vast Mike Ross (D)* Alcee Hastings (D) majority of Congress would not be David Rivera (R) in office if they were subjected to the California Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R) same standard. Joe Baca (D) Frederica Wilson (D) Retiring Representatives Steve Karen Bass (D) Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D) LaTourette (R-OH) and Jerry Costello Xavier Becerra (D) (D-IL) offered an amendment to strip Howard Berman (D) Georgia this anti-union language from the Lois Capps (D) John Barrow (D) bill. While their efforts fell short, 190 Dennis Cardoza (D) Sanford Bishop (D) Democrats and 16 Republican mem- Judy Chu (D) Hank Johnson (D) bers of Congress kept their word and Jim Costa (D) John Lewis (D) voted for aviation and railroad work- Susan Davis (D) David Scott (D) ers, despite intense pressure from an Anna Eshoo (D) all-out lobbying blitz by anti-union Sam Farr (D) Hawaii groups. With the retirement of these Bob Filner (D)* Colleen Hanabusa (D) two strong allies, bipartisan leaders John Garamendi (D) Mazie Hirono (D)† who put people before politics, the Janice Hahn (D) partisan divide in the House may be Mike Honda (D) Illinois even deeper. Barbara Lee (D) Jerry Costello (D)* This is one reason why it is Zoe Lofgren (D) Danny Davis (D) important to understand where politi- Doris Matsui (D) Luis Gutierrez (D) cal candidates stand on issues that Jerry McNerney (D) Jesse Jackson, Jr. (D) impact our rights as union members. George Miller (D) Tim Johnson (R)* The 206 members of the House of Grace Napolitano (D) Dan Lipinski (D) Representatives listed below voted Nancy Pelosi (D) Mike Quigley (D) Laura Richardson (D) Bobby Rush (D) Lucille Roybal-Allard (D) Jan Schakowsky (D) Linda Sanchez (D) Indiana “Voting allows my Loretta Sanchez (D) Adam Schiff (D) Andre Carson (D) voice to be heard. Brad Sherman (D) Joe Donnelly (D)† I vote because Jackie Speier (D) Iowa Pete Stark (D) I am concerned Leonard Boswell (D) Mike Thompson (D) Bruce Braley (D) about pay, insur- Maxine Waters (D) Dave Loebsack (D) ance, taxes and Henry Waxman (D) Lynn Woolsey (D)* Kentucky Dan Sampey, equal rights for US Airways-PHL all.” Colorado John Yarmuth (D) Diana DeGette (D)

[12] Flightlog Legislative Issue ELECTION 2012

Louisiana Christopher Smith (R) Mike Doyle (D) Cedric Richmond (D) Albio Sires (D) Chaka Fattah (D) Tim Holden (D)* Maine New Mexico Todd Platts (R)* Michael Michaud (D) Martin Heinrich (D)† Allyson Schwartz (D) Chellie Pingree (D) New York Rhode Island Maryland Gary Ackerman (D)* David Cicilline (D) Elijah Cummings (D) Tim Bishop (D) Jim Langevin (D) Yvette Clarke (D) Donna Edwards (D) South Carolina Steny Hoyer (D) Joe Crowley (D) C.A. “Dutch” Ruppersberger (D) Eliot Engel (D) James Clyburn (D) Chris Gibson (R) John Sarbanes (D) Tennessee Chris Van Hollen (D) Michael Grimm (R) Brian Higgins (D) Steven Cohen (D) Massachusetts Maurice Hinchey (D)* Texas Steve Israel (D) Michael Capuano (D) Henry Cuellar (D) Barney Frank (D)* Peter King (R) Nita Lowey (D) Lloyd Doggett (D) William Keating (D) Al Green (D) Stephen Lynch (D) Carolyn Maloney (D) Carolyn McCarthy (D) Gene Green (D) Ed Markey (D) Ruben Hinojosa (D) Jim McGovern (D) Gregory Meeks (D) Jerrold Nadler (D) Sheila Jackson Lee (D) Richard Neal (D) Eddie Bernice Johnson (D) John Olver (D)* Bill Owens (D) Charles Rangel (D) Charlie Gonzalez (D)* John Tierney (D) Silvestre Reyes (D)* Niki Tsongas (D) Jose Serrano (D) Louise Slaughter (D) Utah Michigan Paul Tonko (D) Jim Matheson (D) Hansen Clarke (D)* Edolphus Towns (D)* John Conyers, Jr. (D) Nydia Velazquez (D) Vermont John Dingell (D) North Carolina Peter Welch (D) Dale Kildee (D)* Sander Levin (D) G.K. Butterfield (D) Virginia Gary Peters (D) Walter Jones (R) Gerald Connolly (D) Larry Kissell (D) Jim Moran (D) Minnesota Mike McIntyre (D) Keith Ellison (D) Brad Miller (D)* * Retiring or resigning from U.S. House of Betty McCollum (D) David E. Price (D) Representatives, or lost primary election Collin Peterson (D) Heath Shuler (D)* † Running for U.S. Senate Tim Walz (D) Mel Watt (D) ‡ Running for Governor Note: Candidates elected after February 2012 are Mississippi Ohio not listed. Bennie Thompson (D) Marcia Fudge (D) Missouri Marcy Kaptur (D) Vote for the candidates who Russ Carnahan (D)* Dennis Kucinich (D)* support Flight Attendants. Emanuel Cleaver II (D) Steve LaTourette (R)* Jo Ann Emerson (R) Tim Ryan (D) William Lacy Clay (D) Betty Sutton (D) Nevada Oklahoma Shelley Berkley (D)† Dan Boren (D)* “As an African- New Jersey Oregon American Robert Andrews (D) Earl Blumenauer (D) woman, people Rush Holt (D) Peter DeFazio (D) died for my right Frank LoBiondo (R) Kurt Schrader (D) Frank Pallone, Jr. (D) David Wu (D)* to vote. I owe it Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D) Pennsylvania to their legacy to Donald Payne (D) ** exercise my right Steven Rothman (D)* Jason Altmire (D)* Angela Wells, United-IAH Jon Runyan (R) Robert Brady (D) to vote.” Mark Critz (D)

www.afacwa.org Flightlog [13] ELECTION 2012 Do New Voter Identification Laws Equal Voter Suppression?

ince the last presidential elec- cy,” said AFA International President tion, many states have passed or “Voting is a privilege and Veda Shook. Sproposed new voter identifica- a responsibility of living in Fortunately, Flight Attendants tion laws. At face value, these laws have identification, as do most appear to simply address verifying a democracy,” said AFA adults, and most are registered to the identity of voters on Election Day. vote. However, given the highly Upon closer examination, however, it International President mobile nature of our profession, is evident that they create roadblocks Veda Shook. Flight Attendants may move across to certain demographic groups and town, state or country between elec- serve to discourage their participa- tion cycles and, therefore, may be tion, rather than ensuring more fair- new voting laws, as of press time over unfamiliar with voting requirements, ness in the voting process. 750,000 registered voters are ineli- whether they have changed or not. gible to vote on November 6 due to Now is the time to find out what the recent changes. The majority of you will need to register to vote and “AFA members are in these newly disenfranchised voters are what you will need on Election Day a unique position: elderly, young and minority voters. to cast your vote. If there is a chance The ramifications could be enormous you will be working on Election Day, our numbers are great in in the battleground states: It is esti- make sure your vote is counted by many of the battleground mated that over five million legally voting early or requesting an absentee registered voters nationwide could be ballot today (see page 11). Waiting states. We can make a real denied their right to vote in 11 states until the last minute could mean for- difference in an election.” that have passed new voter ID laws. feiting your right to vote as several AFA members are in a unique states have shortened the early voting position: our numbers are great in timeframe. Only you can make sure Many of the states with new, many of the battleground states. We your vote counts on Election Day. restrictive voter ID laws will be battle- can make a real difference in this Check the voting rules in your state ground states in the presidential elec- election. and don’t wait until the last minute. tion. For example, in Pennsylvania, a “Voting is a privilege and a Your voting rights may only be a state with some of the most restrictive responsibility of living in a democra- Google search away.

“Each of us has a duty to leave VOTE this country a

better place for

the next gen- eration. Many VOTE Julie Ann Watson, critical issues VOTE American Eagle-ORD are at hand, such as healthcare, Social Security, outsourcing of jobs. We need to remind Washington, DC that they are

employed by the people to VOTEVOTE assert the policies the people VOTE want.”

[14] Flightlog Legislative Issue AFA Flightlog Around Our Union Strategy, Democracy & Solidarity Define 2012 BOD

vote in 2004. Effective June 2012, dues adjusted to $48. AFA dues remained the same for 14 years, and then increased by $4.00 in 2008. Our union has taken significant cost- cutting measures while ensuring that all services to members remain at the levels you have come to expect from your union. We must match our resources to our set priorities as we defend and advance our careers. CWA National Programs - Agenda Item #46 Our participation in CWA National Programs expands our col- lective power. As part of the 700,000 CWA members who take part in these programs, our reach and our resourc- es are multiplied so that we can more effectively move the priorities of AFA members. A portion of our $48.00 monthly dues will be used to fund our participation in CWA National Programs. In the first year $1.50 per month will be allocated. Next year that amount will increase to $3.00 per month. In CWA National Programs, we spend less to do more. Amplifying the Voices of Members - On February 6 at LAX, Flight Attendants from AFA airlines were joined by concerned LAX union members Agenda Item #33 to protest attacks on collective bargaining rights. Congress used the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization process to insert a controversial labor provision to satisfy corporate executives — an The BOD also took action to attack by the 1% against the 99%. AFA coordinated the OccuFLY event with the support of the LA County make member petitions clearer and Federation of Labor. easier to use. To ensure greater clar- ity, any member petition must have a single intended purpose and must he AFA-CWA Board of a dues adjustment, participation in be submitted to the International Directors (BOD) conducted CWA National Programs, clarifica- Secretary-Treasurer within 120 days Tthe 39th annual BOD meeting tion of petitioning guidelines, and the of being recorded. This is just one at the LAX Airport Westin, February creation of a committee for explor- of the many ways that we encourage 6-8, 2012. Taking into account ing direct membership elections of transparency in our union. the challenges we face today and International and MEC officers, to those we may face tomorrow, AFA name just a few. Some of the central Exploring Membership Elections of Local Presidents, MEC officers and issues are described below: International and MEC Officers International officers worked to for- The Board agreed to create an mulate a comprehensive union strat- Dues Adjustment - Agenda Item #47 exploratory committee to conduct a egy. They deliberated over 47 agenda By implementing a dues adjust- study of direct membership election items and three resolutions. To view ment, we align with the CWA dues of MEC and International officers. all of these BOD decisions, visit average, part of the CWA merger www.afa-bod.org. agreement, which was approved A full recap of the BOD meeting may be viewed at Among the BOD decisions were through a union-wide membership www.afa-bod.org.

www.afacwa.org Flightlog [15] Membership Engagement Seminars 2012 Affect Change, Take Ownership of Your AFA

ur Flight Attendant union is enforcing our contracts, and ensuring • The structure of AFA, how each member-driven. It is not an a safe and healthy work environ- member can advance an idea or Oinstitution; it is the hearts and ment to affecting change in our union agenda and the work of our union souls of the professionals who are through our democratic process, at every level. our flying partners. Flight Attendants together we are most effective when • Running for AFA office or volun- built our union and hold every leader- members are engaged. This fall, AFA teering to work on an AFA com- ship position in it. Throughout the International Vice President Sara mittee. years, our union’s advocacy, depart- Nelson and the AFA International • A How AF dues are allocated to ments, programs and committees Staff Representatives (staff members advance our priorities. have grown because Flight Attendant who support leadership development, • Updates on current events, hot members have demanded more for all AFA trainings and membership mobi- topics and an industry overview. of our flying partners. lization programs) will host four-hour • Our union’s achievements and Our union evolves and changes member seminars in 15 cities where the resources we have to tackle as members take ownership and AFA members are based. current issues important to Flight ensure our priorities reflect the will The seminars are open to all Attendants. of the AFA members who form our members who want to learn more • Building our power through union today. From negotiating and about: mobilization and collective action. Each seminar will begin at 12 noon local time and end at 4 pm at Seminar Locations & Dates: 12 Noon – 4 pm Local Time a location near the airport. In order in All Locations to plan for adequate meeting space, materials and refreshments, we FLL – September 7* SFO – October 3 EWR – October 25 request that members RSVP as soon ORD – September 12* HNL – October 4 PHL – October 26 as possible and at least one week in advance of the seminar you’d like to DTW – September 13* CLT – October 17 DEN – November 14 attend. Go to afacwa.org, click on the Membership Engagement DCA – September 25** DFW – October 23 PHX – November 15 Seminar graphic to register. You will LAX – October 2 IAH – October 24 SEA – November 16 receive information about your semi- nar location. *Members who live/work near FLL/MIA, ORD & DTW received special notice in advance of this Flightlog Make plans now to attend! **The DCA seminar will take place at AFA’s International Office.

FAA Agrees with AFA on Lavatory Oxygen

FA scored a major victory on June 25 when That includes events such as a rapid decompression the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that could result in mere seconds of useful conscious- Apublished a rule directing airlines to reinstall ness. This scenario requires immediate access to emergency oxygen in aircraft lavatories that had been emergency oxygen, regardless of where we might be in removed or made inoperative over safety and secu- the aircraft — including the lavatory. The lack of emer- rity concerns. The directive was issued after AFA’s gency oxygen in lavatories is a workplace hazard that Air Safety, Health and Security Director Christopher could adversely affect the health of Flight Attendants Witkowski tirelessly advocated with the FAA for and could also jeopardize our important role of ensur- installation of a safer lavatory oxygen system in order ing flight safety. to protect Flight Attendants. This is another example of AFA advocacy and As outlined in AFA’s April 12, 2012 public com- a continued commitment to ensuring that Flight ments, Flight Attendants are first responders onboard Attendants have the tools and resources available to the aircraft to ensure the safety of the traveling public. perform our crucial role as first responders.

[16] Flightlog Legislative Issue AFA Member Raises Next Generation Union Activist

Dana Wilson and her mother, Denver-based United Flight Attendant Stefani Wilson.

Dana. Being a union member “means Entertainment, Warner Music Group, you take a stand for the greater EMI Music and The Walt Disney Co. good.” While Dana’s profession may be There were more lessons glamorous, working side-by-side with about the importance of unions in the likes of Justin Timberlake, it is the Wilson household. The United also hard work. Prior to this contract, Airlines bankruptcy, from 2002-2006, music video dancers often worked 20 was a stressful time for Stefani, who or more hours at a time in hazardous was then a single parent of three. conditions with little or no workplace “Knowing how difficult negotiations protections. “On a video shoot work- can be, and feeling powerless in the day, I could be on set for 24 hours. face of the changes that United was What I do is work and it deserves trying to force upon its employees, I fair pay, decent benefits and safety hen Dana Wilson was a placed my trust in the strength of our standards,” Dana said. Now, Dana teenager, she was offered union,” she said. is protected by a union contract that Wa job at a local super- Stefani’s comprehensive AFA provides wage security, health ben- market where union members were Flight Attendant contract with United, efits, sufficient rest breaks and safety on strike. She asked her mother, which covered the health care needs assurance on hazardous sets. Denver-based United Flight Attendant of Dana and her two siblings through- Following the merger of the Stefani Wilson, what the employer out their lives, was a lifeline to the two unions, SAG-AFTRA recently meant when he said she would have Wilson family. It was also a lesson received a new charter from the AFL- to cross the picket line. Stefani told to Dana in the value of work and the CIO, setting an excellent example for her daughter the story of honoring the power of a union contract. work groups struggling to overcome picket line when United Pilots were Employed as a professional historic divisions. on strike in 1985 for 29 days, before dancer today, Dana is a spokes- “I’ve done a lot of things that Dana was born. She impressed upon person for her union, the Screen have made my mom proud, but the her daughter that unions are vital to Actors Guild-American Federation thing she’s most proud of is my our industry and that, if she took the of Film and Television Artists (SAG- involvement in my union. As mem- supermarket job while workers were AFTRA), AFL-CIO, which recently bers, we must do everything in our on strike, she would be harming those reached the first-ever industry-wide power to get involved and make workers. contract to cover dancers and other a difference. We must recognize “For nearly a decade, my moth- performers on music videos with how valuable union membership is er’s words resonated with me,” said Universal Music Group, Sony Music because it lifts up all workers.”

www.afacwa.org Flightlog [17] Our Contracts

or nearly seven decades, AFA Negotiations are only meaning- to decide what was important to has been negotiating Flight ful when rooted in the priorities them instead of allowing man- FAttendant contracts. Our union set by Flight Attendants. The first agement to simply impose terms brings a wealth of experience to the step in negotiating a strong agree- and conditions,” said Mary Lou bargaining table. Your flying partners ment is receiving member feedback Riley, Ryan International Master who serve on your AFA Negotiating because your contract should reflect Executive Council President. “Ryan Committee at your airline are trained your priorities. And, the final step in International Flight Attendants have and supported by professional nego- AFA negotiations is always contract been eager for a legally binding tiators with more experience in Flight ratification by you and your flying contract that provides job security Attendant contract negotiations than partners, as guaranteed in your AFA and valuable protections. Through anyone else in the country, represent- Constitution & Bylaws. Throughout AFA representation, we were able to ing management or labor. Your nego- negotiations, a member mobilization secure an agreement.” tiators are backed by highly experi- network builds our power through enced attorneys who work exclusively solidarity and helps to keep the lines United-Continental-Continental to enforce and protect the rights of of communication flowing between Micronesia Flight Attendants. individual members and our nego- AFA Negotiating Committees With expertise in the broadest tiators. Negotiations at your airline at the three pre-merger airlines, range of bargaining challenges, from begin and end with you. United, Continental and Continental regular contract negotiations under Negotiations concluded recently Micronesia, successfully negotiated Section 6 of the Railway Labor Act, at the following carriers: contractual improvements in Section to merger and bankruptcy negotia- 6 negotiations. Members at all three tions, to unique situations such as Ryan International carriers ratified agreements, setting a military and charter flying, your On August 17, Flight Attendants strong foundation for single contract union brings the highest degree of ratified their first contract, which negotiations going forward at the skill to every negotiation. recognizes the contributions of the new United. Collective bargaining does not nearly 200 Flight Attendants, and “We look forward to advanc- take place in a vacuum, but within provides a foundation for the future. ing joint contract negotiations so the framework of what is happening During the course of their first-ever that Flight Attendants from our three at each individual airline and in the Section 6 negotiations, the carrier was carriers are unified under the protec- industry. When your AFA negotiating thrown into bankruptcy. tions of a single agreement,” said committee prepares to go to the bar- “While this agreement was Suzanne Hendricks, AFA President at gaining table, they take into account reached in the confines of bank- Continental Micronesia, when mem- a multitude of factors to devise a ruptcy, Ryan International Flight bers ratified the contract on August strategy specific to your airline—and Attendants had the opportunity 17. Read the article on page 20. specific to you.

[18] Flightlog Legislative Issue Hawaiian There are no pay cuts or wage freez- lack of transparency, Piedmont Flight On April 18, 2012, Flight es. It is now up to American Eagle Attendants authorized a strike at the Attendants at Hawaiian Airlines rati- Flight Attendants to decide if this is carrier by a vote of 98% in favor. fied an agreement that includes annu- an agreement that they can live with Their pilots, represented by ALPA, al increases in rates of pay as well as in the context of bankruptcy wherein are also in negotiations and also voted improvements in per diem, uniform all the negotiating advantages lie with to authorize a strike with over 90% allowance, pension contributions and management,” said Robert Barrow, in favor. quality of life enhancements for their AFA President at American Eagle. “At this point, it is up to over 1,200 Flight Attendants. Voting on the tentative agreement Piedmont management. Should With the assistance of the ends September 7. they continue to ignore our critical role as First Responders and fail to National Mediation Board’s (NMB) US Airways Facilitated Problem Solving approach reach an agreement, then they should during early stages of negotiations, Before any possible merger with be prepared for CHAOS™,” said AFA negotiators and Hawaiian man- American Airlines takes place, AFA Anita Jwanouskos, AFA Piedmont agement were successful in resolving members made clear to management President. remaining issues and in a shorter it has to be “Our Contract First.” With AFA’s trademarked timeframe without direct NMB Although management was prepared CHAOS strike strategy, or Create involvement. to move forward with a new merger Havoc Around Our System™, a without first addressing the concerns strike could affect the entire system PSA of US Airways Flight Attendants, or a single flight. The union decides On March 27, 2012, PSA Flight AFA leadership made sure members when, where and how to strike with- Attendants ratified an agreement that could first vote on a single contract out notice to management or pas- includes pay increases and quality of with protections and improvements. sengers. Throughout negotiations, life enhancements for the over 300 The Joint Negotiating Committee and AFA has continued to address Flight Flight Attendants. PSA is a wholly each of the Local Council Presidents Attendant concerns while manage- owned subsidiary of US Airways at US Airways moved quickly and ment has made regressive proposals. Group, Inc. and operates as a US decisively to engage the National This lack of progress could lead to Airways Express carrier. The contract Mediation Board and ensure a negoti- the NMB declaring that negotiations secures a better future for all PSA ations schedule would be set to ensure are deadlocked and releasing both Flight Attendants in recognition of all US Airways Flight Attendants parties into a 30-day “cooling off” their significant contributions to PSA would have the best possible job secu- period leading to a strike deadline. and the US Airways network. rity and improved compensation going into a merger. The NMB set a dead- Air Wisconsin American Eagle line for completing negotiations and On June 21, Air Wisconsin The AFA American Eagle in just three short but intense medi- Flight Attendants ratified an agree- Negotiating Committee had made ated sessions a new tentative agree- ment that includes increased com- tremendous progress in negotiations ment was reached on August 7 with pensation and improvements to just prior to the bankruptcy filing changes based on Flight Attendant scheduling and quality of life issues at American Airlines (AMR). That feedback. If ratified, the agreement for the over 300 Flight Attendants. all changed when management put bumps top pay to $47.15 domesti- The four-year agreement was reached forward its demands for concessions cally and $50.15 internationally on the with the assistance of the NMB. The through the bankruptcy process. Our date of signing, which is a 13.5% and agreement was reached just three Negotiating Committee did not blink. 25.4% increase for US Airways East days after Air Wisconsin AFA mem- With the assistance of economists and and West Flight Attendants, respec- bers turned out a 97.3% strike vote. financial advisors, they went to work tively. This would also help bring up AFA members got the attention of scrutinizing every penny management the industry average to improve our management with a real threat of a claimed to need and every valuation positioning for bargaining at other strike and display of solidarity – and for changes to the contract. A tentative airlines. Voting will conclude on it made an immediate difference at agreement was reached on July 17, September 27. Details on the tentative the table. “Through the solidarity for members to vote on rather than be agreement and the latest news on a and determination of Air Wisconsin subject to management imposed terms potential merger with American may Flight Attendants, we were able to approved by the court. be viewed at ourafa.org. The possible achieve an agreement that recognizes “This process has been difficult merger with American would also the contributions we make to the and has taken an enormous amount impact AFA members at US Airways overall success of our carrier and of time and effort, but AFA was suc- Express carriers Air Wisconsin, PSA provides growth opportunities for our cessful in pushing back against out- and Piedmont along with members at future,” said Brenda Barrall, AFA Air rageous contract cuts first proposed American Eagle. Wisconsin President. Air Wisconsin operates as a US Airways Express by management. We forced onerous Piedmont concessions off the table, mitigated carrier. the ones we accepted and negotiated In response to management’s early snap-backs for some of them. quest for unsubstantiated cuts and

www.afacwa.org Flightlog [19] United-Continental-Continental Micronesia Flight Attendants Fortify Union Structure

year has passed since nearly Attendants in Guam. Following a ed the first Flight Attendant contract, 25,000 Flight Attendants membership drive, AFA promptly over 67 years ago. Avoted to unify in the world’s began the process for membership In July, Continental Flight largest Flight Attendant union, election of union officers and the Attendants also reached improve- following the United-Continental- new elected officers were in place ments in a ratified agreement. And, Continental Micronesia merger. The in advance of the AFA Board of this August, Continental Micronesia 10,000 Continental and Continental Directors (BOD) meeting this spring. ratified their agreement which Micronesia Flight Attendants are The new LEC Presidents were paves the way for Joint Contract fully integrated into the AFA struc- full participants in the BOD meeting, Negotiations to begin. All three ture, bringing a wealth of experience representing their members in the MECs and their committees are to and a strong tradition of trade union’s highest governing body. The be commended for advancing their unionism that enrich our Flight Board, made up of local presidents individual contracts prior to reaching Attendant union. from throughout AFA, sets policy and a single, combined agreement. Immediately following AFA’s makes the decisions that guide our Successful conclusion of single certification as the representative union. (See BOD article on page 15) contract negotiations is necessary in for Continental and Continental United Airlines Flight Attendants order for United to combine Flight Micronesia Flight Attendants, two improved the foundation for single Attendant work groups and complete new AFA Master Executive Councils contract negotiations when they the merger. The true benefit of a (MECs) were formed. This provided ratified their first post-bankruptcy merger is realized through an opera- a structure that could support nego- contract on February 28, 2012. The tional integration; Flight Attendants tiations and enforcement of their agreement was reached with over- are a key part of that process and the contracts. In addition, four new AFA sight from the National Mediation future success of United Airlines. Local Executive Councils (LECs) Board (NMB) through expedited The Joint Negotiating Committee were formed to provide representa- mediation with airline management. (JNC), made up of representatives tion where Flight Attendants are This contract is the latest in nearly from each pre-merger airline, spent based—Continental Flight Attendants seven decades of bargaining; United the week of August 5th at Rutgers in Cleveland, Houston and Newark, Flight Attendants formed the first University School of Management and Continental Micronesia Flight Flight Attendant union, and negotiat- and Labor Relations preparing for

[20] Flightlog Legislative Issue United, Continental and Continental Micronesia AFA leaders attend negotiations training for the upcoming joint negotiations. their first meeting with management for their fellow Flight Attendants. cleared a significant backlog of open on August 27th. At the conclusion Some of these committee members grievances. The AFA Continental of their intense week of preparations also attended the ASHSD Aircraft MEC Grievance Committee has they were able to report to all 25,000 Accident Investigation training in been able to work through them all, Flight Attendants, “We are no longer April 2012 on official investigation up to the level of the System Board three groups of representatives from procedures, which qualifies them to of Adjustment. In addition, a more three different airlines. We are one assist the National Transportation formal process for screening and committee of Flight Attendants who Safety Board during aircraft accident approving grievances for arbitration will make every effort to gather up investigations in the U.S. AFA also is in place. the best practices each group has to gained experienced representatives “Since joining AFA, we have offer. We will shape those compo- as many brought their own skills adopted a grievance screening pro- nents, along with fresh ideas, into a from prior work on safety issues cess,” said Eric Kaufman, Continental new industry leading contract for all at Continental and Continental MEC Grievance Committee Chair. United Airlines Flight Attendants.” Micronesia. “Now, a grievance must be submitted In the past year, AFA has also AFA Employee Assistance to the MEC Screening Committee, conducted training for members who Program (EAP) Committees have which means that four people, the serve on Grievance, Air Safety and been formed at each Continental MEC President, LEC President, MEC EAP Committees. AFA committees and Continental Micronesia base, Grievance Committee Chair and AFA are an integral part of our union struc- expanding the AFA EAP global Staff Attorney, conduct a methodical ture, providing invaluable services to network of over 200 professionally review and determine whether the AFA members, our airlines and the trained peer support volunteers. The grievance has merit and should move industry as a whole. entire program is overseen by mental forward.” AFA Air Safety Committee health professionals who provide Firmly rooted in the AFA demo- members at Continental and resources to Flight Attendants for cratic structure, union leaders and Continental Micronesia have par- resolving problems. In the past year, members at United, Continental and ticipated in AFA Air Safety, Health AFA has conducted basic EAP train- Continental Micronesia are poised to and Security Department (ASHSD) ings in Phoenix and in Houston, and claim the full benefits of the merger initial trainings to gain an in-depth Critical Incident Advanced Training of their airlines, setting new stan- understanding of their roles and in Baltimore. dards and raising the bar for Flight responsibilities as safety advocates Also in the past year, AFA has Attendants across the industry.

www.afacwa.org Flightlog [21] Join the Fight Against Human Trafficking

ing front line employees through our ing, according to CBP. Indicators unions, we are able to address some of human trafficking can include: of the most serious social issues of physical control of travel documents our times. In AFA’s continuing part- of an adult traveler by a co-traveler; nership with our government, we are restricting the movement and social working to put an end to this form of interaction of an adult traveler by a modern-day slavery. Human traffick- co-traveler; an adult traveler who is ing is defined as: unclear on details of his/her final des- • The recruitment, harboring, tination or point of contact; or a child transport, provision or obtaining traveler who appears to be accompa- of a person by force, fraud, or nied by someone claiming to be the coercion for the purpose of invol- parent or guardian who is in fact not untary servitude, peonage, debt related to the child. Blue Lightning bondage, or slavery; or will roll out a training program in • Sex trafficking, in which a com- 2012 tailored for Flight Attendants mercial sex act is induced by who do U.S.-bound international force, fraud or coercion—or the flying. In consultation with CBP offi- person induced to perform such cials AFA was able to provide valu- acts is under age 18. able input into the training program, It is estimated that at least which will be available through AFA 12.3 million adults and children and participating airlines. are enslaved around the world We can help detect human traf- and that 56 percent are women ficking so the proper authorities can and girls. The International Labor take action. In-flight notification Organization (ILO) estimated that gives authorities time to investi- n the global struggle to combat in 2005, 980,000 to 1,225,000 boys gate and formulate an appropriate a problem of epidemic propor- and girls were in forced labor situ- response, which may include coor- Itions, Flight Attendants can play ations as a result of trafficking. In dination with other federal agencies. a key role in the fight against human 2000, Congress passed the Victims of With the appropriate training, Flight trafficking. In a March 2012 meeting Trafficking and Violence Protection Attendants can become a ‘force between AFA International President Act, which launched a large-scale multiplier’ in the fight against traf- Veda Shook and Department of effort by the U.S. government to ficking, extending the reach – and the Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary fight human trafficking. effectiveness – of the Blue Lightning Janet Napolitano concerning aviation In 2010, Secretary Napolitano program. security issues, Secretary Napolitano launched the Blue Campaign – a first- invited AFA to participate in an ini- of-its-kind initiative to coordinate and To Learn More About tiative to involve aviation employees enhance the Department’s anti-human Human Trafficking in the fight against human traffick- trafficking efforts. The Department of Go to: ing: the DHS Customs and Border Homeland Security combats human www.dhs.gov/humantrafficking Protection’s “Blue Lightning” trafficking through a variety of pro- Click on ‘Human Trafficking initiative. This program provides a grams, and the Blue Campaign coor- Awareness Training’ voluntary mechanism for front line dinates and unites this work. Go to: afacwa.org and click on workers at U.S. commercial airlines The ‘Blue Lightning Initiative’ ‘Homeland Security Blue that operate U.S.-bound international is coordinated as part of the Campaign’ routes to identify potential human Blue Campaign by CBP in col- trafficking victims and to notify fed- laboration with the Department of To Report Human Trafficking* eral authorities. Transportation. The key to the suc- • Call (866) 347-2423 from the “We like to talk about ‘boots cess of this initiative, however, is the U.S., Mexico, Canada (toll-free) on the ground’,” said Customs and participation of the frontline workers or (802) 872-6199 (not toll-free). Border Protection (CBP) Acting in the airline industry. • Report online at www.ice.gov/tips Commissioner David V. Aguilar. Flight Attendants are uniquely • Follow your airline’s reporting “Flight Attendants and airline positioned to identify human traf- policy and procedure. employees will be the ‘boots in the fickers and assist their victims. Flight air’ fighting human trafficking.” crews are skilled observers, and * Identify your tip as a Blue Lightning Initiative (BLI) When the leaders we elect with the appropriate training, they report. understand the importance of engag- can be the frontline against traffick-

[22] Flightlog Legislative Issue www.afacwa.org Flightlog [23] Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO 501 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001-2797 www.afacwa.org