M/V Norfolk Rescues Four Sailors from S/V Moflete by Noah Myrus Requesting Assistance for the Distressed Fuel and Antibiotics to the S/V Moflete

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Volume 48, Number 3 March 2018

M/V Norfolk rescues four sailors from S/V Moflete By Noah Myrus requesting assistance for the distressed fuel and antibiotics to the S/V Moflete. the sailboat was taking on water and that Master, M/V Norfolk sailing vessel Moflete. The M/V Norfolk was then released from they needed to abandon ship. The next morning at daybreak, the assistance by the MRCC and resumed With great teamwork and tremen- On the evening of February 4, 2018, Norfolk rendezvoused with the S/V its voyage. dous determination, the crew of the M/V while 700 miles east of the Windward Moflete. The sailing vessel had damaged A short while later, a distress call was Norfolk was able to snatch the four Islands, the M/V Norfolk received a satel- rigging and was unable to sail. received from the S/V Moflete via VHF sailors from the clutches of the sea in lite call from the Fort DE France MRCC M/V Norfolk was to supply diesel radio. The crew of the Moflete advised that rough conditions.

Photos courtesy of Captain Noah Myrus

In February, the M/V Norfolk rescued four sailors from the S/V Moflete — here with officers and crewmembers of the Norfolk. More photos on page 7

First phase of Orca Class conversion to LNG complete The following article was released ter while drastically reducing nitrogen February 26 by TOTE Maritime. oxides (NOx) and carbon dioxide. Reduced TOTE Maritime Alaska has complet- emissions will result in a healthier environ- ed the first of four conversion periods for ment for Tacoma, Wash., Puget Sound and the Orca Class vessels, a process which will Anchorage, Alaska, the communities in enable the ships to use liquefied natural gas which TOTE Maritime operates. (LNG) as fuel. TOTE Maritime’s North “We are excited to be the first ship- Star arrived in Anchorage February 25, ping company in the United States to under- completing her first voyage after being out- take this important environmental effort,” fitted with two LNG tanks immediately noted Mike Noone, President of TOTE behind the ship’s bridge. Maritime Alaska. “And we are appreciative In addition to the LNG tanks and of our customers and partners who support accompanying infrastructure, the ship our ongoing effort to innovate in ways that received critical engine updates necessary reflect our commitment to the environment to utilize LNG as a fuel and underwent a and communities we serve.” standard regulatory dry-dock. Over the next four years, three more TOTE Maritime was the first maritime conversion periods will be required to final- shipping company in the world to announce ize the transition of TOTE Maritime its intention to convert their fleet, enabling Alaska’s vessels to LNG. Each of these con- the engines to use both LNG and diesel. version periods will take place in the winter This conversion will drastically to minimize the impact to customers and reduce air emissions from TOTE consumers alike. The conversion of both Maritime’s Alaska ships, virtually eliminat- ships is scheduled to be complete in the first ing sulfur oxides (SOx) and particulate mat- Photo: TOTE Maritime quarter of 2021.

Reminder: AMO election nomination Maersk Peary serves in Operation period advanced, balloting extended Deep Freeze 2018 for McMurdo Station Page 2: Under recent amendments to the AMO National Constitution, the Page 12: At the beginning of February, the Maersk Peary delivered nomination period for the 2018 AMO election will open with the May nearly 100 percent of the fuel McMurdo Station in Antarctica will need membership meeting and close with the beginning of the June member- for the year, including nearly 5 million gallons of diesel fuel and ship meeting. Ballots will be mailed August 1, rather than September 1. 500,000 gallons of aviation fuel.

NTSB releases final report Reminder: Nomination on El Faro investigation period advanced for 2018 The National Transportation Safety Board in February released the final report on its investigation of the October 1, 2015 sinking of the U.S.-flagged cargo ship S/S El Faro, which resulted in the loss of all 33 crewmembers, including 11 members of AMO election, balloting American Maritime Officers. The report is available on the NTSB accident report detail page (https://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/AccidentReports/Pages/MAR1701.aspx). period extended The complete report can be downloaded directly from the NTSB website As a reminder regarding the 2018 American Maritime Officers election of (https://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/AccidentReports/Reports/MAR1701.pdf). national officers, under the amendment to Article XI, Section 3(g) of the AMO National Constitution adopted in February, the balloting period is lengthened at the front end so the union can meet the required installation of elected officers on January 1, 2019. As a result, the entire election timetable will advance by 30 days. Candidates for office now have from the commencement of the May membership meeting at AMO National Headquarters until the commencement Accurate cost-benefit of the June membership meeting at AMO National Headquarters to file their nominations, instead of from the June membership meeting until the July mem- analysis for construction of bership meeting. Ballots for the 2018 AMO election will be mailed on August 1, rather than September 1, adding one month to the balloting period. a second Poe-sized lock All AMO members are urged to confirm their current home mailing addresses with headquarters or to provide alternative addresses if they would pre- fer that their ballots be mailed elsewhere. The union will issue reminders through- needed for crucial maritime out the election timetable. transportation infrastructure production of automobiles, appliances and heavy equipment would end soon afterwards. A 2017 study commissioned by the U.S. Treasury Department finds that a second Poe- project to advance sized lock would have a net economic benefit of as much as $1.7 billion and a b/c ratio The following is excerpted from a position statement published in January by the between 2.0 and 4.0. Great Lakes Maritime Task Force, a labor-industry coalition of which American Maritime Construction of a second Poe-sized lock would be a boon to the Great Lakes basin’s Officers is a member. economy. Consider this: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is conducting an Economic Reevaluation Report ■ (ERR) on a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The Corps’ 2005 analysis At the peak of construction of the lock proper, 250 workers will be employed and incorrectly assumed the railroads could move the cargo that transits the Soo Locks at no over the length project 1.5 million manhours will be generated. ■ additional cost. That false premise resulted in a benefit/cost (b/c) ratio of less than 1.0, so Nearly 1 of every 4 dollars spent on the project will wind up as regional incomes the project has been ineligible for funding in an administration budget. Stakeholders have in an area where a good-paying job means maybe $20,000 per year. ■ actively engaged in the ERR to correct the errors that produced the low b/c ratio. The project will use more than 1.1 million tons of domestically-quarried limestone, 60,000 tons of U.S.-made cement, and 25,000 tons of American-made steel. ■ Background While most dollars will go to local workers, expenditures for gates, electronics, The Soo Locks connect Lake Superior to the lower four Great Lakes and St. machinery, and engineering will mean jobs for workers and manufacturers nationwide. Lawrence Seaway and allow the shipment of iron ore from mines in Minnesota and Michigan, coal from western states, and grain from American and Canadian farms to end Benefits users in the United States, Canada and overseas. Cargo movement through the Soo Locks The American economy cannot thrive without reliable shipping through the Soo can top 80 million tons per year. Locks. The Great Lakes region is home to 50 percent of the nation’s steelmaking capacity, The need for a second Poe-sized lock becomes more critical each passing day. Poe- an industry that generates 135,000 direct jobs, and another 865,000 in supplier industries. class vessels (their size restricts them to the Poe Lock) represent nearly 70 percent of U.S.- The vast majority of the iron ore that feeds those mills transits the Soo Locks. The Soo flag carrying capacity on the Great Lakes, and in 2016 moved 97 percent of the 48.8 million Locks make possible the shipment of clean-burning, low sulfur coal from western states to tons of cargo American lakers moved through the Soo Locks. The new generation of Great Lakes basin power plants. The Soo Locks also allow grain from the Plains States and Canadian lakers are likewise restricted to the Poe Lock. Were the Poe Lock incapacitated Canadian provinces to be shipped overseas. for a lengthy period, the Great Lakes steel, power generation and manufacturing industries The Soo Locks are now the only way iron ore can be shipped by water from the mines would come to a standstill. Grain exports would suffer too. The U.S. Army Corps of in Minnesota and Michigan to U.S. steel mills. The iron ore mine that shipped through Engineers has estimated that a 30-day closure of Poe Lock would result in an economic loss Escanaba, Michigan, on the north shore of Lake Michigan has exhausted mineable reserves of $160 million. and the final cargoes were loaded in April 2017. ■ A 2016 Department of Homeland Security study found that a six-month clo- Additional benefit from new economic analysis sure of the Poe Lock would throw nearly 11 million Americans out of work and cost the An accurate assessment of the Soo Locks’ role in our economy will also facilitate economy $1.1 trillion. Approximately 75 percent of U.S. integrated steel production much-needed maintenance and upgrades of the existing Poe Lock and MacArthur Lock in would cease within two to six weeks of the lock failing and nearly all North American the years ahead.

U.S. Great Lakes vessels generate winter work at U.S. shipyards U.S.-flag Great Lakes vessel opera- U.S.-flag carriers. The major focus this winter has been The Great Lakes fresh water environ- tors will spend $65 million maintaining and “Winter is the one opportunity our on normal maintenance, such as overhauls of ment means vessels can serve the economy modernizing their vessels at Great Lakes members have to renew and upgrade their engines, cargo hold renewal and replacement for decade upon decade. Two of the thou- shipyards this winter. When complete, the vessels,” said LCA President James of conveyor belts in the unloading systems. sand-footers will begin their 40th year of fleet will be ready to meet the needs of com- Weakley. “They have just 10 months to Depending on the trades it serves, a Great operation in 2018. merce come the spring break-out in March, deliver their customers’ annual raw materi- Lakes freighter can carry anywhere from 50 The Great Lakes shipyard industry’s reported the Lake Carriers’ Association, the als requirement, so the vessels are in service to 100 cargoes in a season. A few vessels can annual payroll for its 2,700 employees trade association representing the major 24/7 during the shipping season.” carry even more cargoes in a season. approaches $125 million.

American Maritime Officer (USPS 316-920) Official Publication of American Maritime Officers 601 S. Federal Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004 (954) 921-2221 POSTMASTER—Send Address Changes To: American Maritime Officers — ATTENTION: Member Services Periodical Postage Paid at P.O. Box 66 Dania Beach, FL and Additional Mailing Offices ISO 9001:2008 Dania Beach, FL 33004 Published Monthly Certificate #33975 March 2018 American Maritime Officer • 3

Jones Act an asset to national security, pillar of commercial investment in Puerto Rico’s economy In commentary published February 5 tions of its repeal.” U.S. economic output and the creation of States ports are American helps aid in by The Washington Times, Julio Rivera He added that opponents “incorrectly approximately 500,000 jobs, since one ship- reducing the entry of foreign invaders and highlighted the economic, national security argue cargo shipped in or out of Puerto Rico yard job creates four other elsewhere in the undocumented migrants.” and national defense benefits of the Jones is required to be transported on Jones Act economy. Rivera noted Jones Act carriers Act, while noting the devastation that compliant vessels. Puerto Rico allows for “Regarding homeland security, the account for $1 billion worth of investments Hurricane Maria has caused in Puerto Rico cargo from around the world to be imported Jones Act ensures that the U.S. Navy can in the marine transportation system serving has been used by political opportunists to into the island. Over 60 percent of cargo- meet strategic sealift requirements and the island, and the issues that stalled recov- launch an ongoing but misguided attack on carrying ships docking in ‘La Isla del allow for the American shipbuilding indus- ery efforts following Hurricane Maria were the crucial U.S. cabotage law. Encanto’ are foreign vessels.” try to mobilize fully at a moment’s notice to not related to Jones Act shipping or U.S.- Rivera wrote the argument “in favor In his commentary, Rivera cited the fulfill wartime expectations,” Rivera wrote. flag vessel shortages. of repealing the law has been built on the economic benefits of the Jones Act, such as “In terms of immigration enforcement, the He concluded: “Truth be told, a false premise that the Jones Act has some- an annual economic contribution of $100 fact that the Jones Act ensures that the own- repeal of the Jones Act would only weaken how acted as an impediment to the speed of billion, including $10 billion in tax revenue, ers, crew members and builders of ships the economic prospects of some of the recovery” in Puerto Rico, where the hurri- $29 billion in annual wages, $46 billion in transporting materials between two United struggling island’s most fervent allies.” cane destroyed homes and businesses, extensively damaged infrastructure and decimated the island’s power grid. He added: “Any negligible impact that could have helped frame such an AMO aboard argument was mostly absent in the 10-day period in which the Jones Act was tem- porarily lifted as only one vessel applied Jones Act for a waiver.” Rivera cited the remarks of tanker Lone Congressman Garret Graves (R-LA), who voiced a desire for the political discussion Star State to move past attempts to blame the Jones Act for the speed of recovery in Puerto Rico and to focus on finding “useful remedies to Members of American Maritime a persistent crisis with no easy fix.” Officers working aboard the Rivera wrote: “The fact that the Jones Act tanker Lone Star State Jones Act provides benefits, both direct in November, here in Beaumont, and indirect, to homeland security, immi- Texas, included Third Mate gration enforcement, and the protection Bryant Snyder, Third Mate John of American jobs exposes its opponents “Jack” Tragert and Chief Mate as ‘break it to fix it’ opportunists, oblivi- Robert Johnson. ous to the potential negative ramifica-

Military to Maritime program advances national call for veterans’ jobs and strong commercial mariner workforce The following article was released and most sophisti- meaningful maritime careers. many career opportunities that do not February 22 by the American Maritime cated Navy and “Mariners in the Armed Forces have require prior sea-going experience. Many Partnership, a coalition of which Coast Guard ves- skills that can successfully translate into companies provide all the training needed American Maritime Officers Service is a sels in the world, the civilian workforce. Military mariners for vessel employees as well as offer a member and which American Maritime and do the same for just need to know about what civilian variety of shore-based career paths. Officers supports. the nation’s 40,000 opportunities are available and how they “The American maritime industry is WASHINGTON — The American commercial ves- can attain the proper certificates during committed to supporting and hiring veter- Maritime Partnership, the voice of the sels. The U.S. mili- their military career to successfully transi- ans. Over recent years, we have hosted job domestic maritime industry, today tary, the most pow- tion into a civilian career,” said Chairman fairs across the nation for our veterans — announced the launch of the Military to erful military in the world, relies on U.S.- Hunter at a recent House Subcommittee and are excited to take this a step further Maritime digital career platform, which is flag vessels crewed by U.S. civilian on Coast Guard and Maritime through our new online platform,” said dedicated to helping veterans find mean- mariners,” said RADM Buzby. “As part of Transportation hearing. Matt Woodruff, AMP Chairman. “We ingful, family-wage jobs in the maritime our coordinated effort across the U.S. Congressman John Garamendi (D- know the vital role our industry serves for industry while supporting America’s Navy’s Military Sealift Command, the CA) likewise has continuously champi- national and homeland security purposes national and economic security. U.S. Coast Guard, and the commercial oned the importance of commercial — and remain dedicated to hiring veterans Building on the success of numer- maritime industry, the Maritime mariners in keeping our nation secure. that share in our commitment to mission, ous Military to Maritime career fairs Administration is working to make it eas- “The current cadre of mariners which teamwork, and service.” across the country, the enhanced digital ier for transitioning veterans to obtain have served the commerce and national The American industry is proud to platform connects veterans with career their mariner credentials based on their security of the United States so admirably support nearly 500,000 jobs, contribute opportunities in the U.S. shipbuilding service experience. In addition, MARAD since the end of the Vietnam War is quickly $92.5 billion to the U.S. economy and and maritime industry and provides supports all educational and training aging out along with the ships. It’s impera- provide $29 billion in annual wages. U.S. training and credentialing information to resources to support veterans as they tran- tive that the federal government, along with shipyards build, repair, maintain and mod- help in their transition from military ser- sition from the military into a new, fulfill- its partners in the state maritime academies ernize the largest and most sophisticated vice to the maritime sector. U.S. mar- ing career as a licensed mariner.” and maritime unions, develop a compre- Navy and Coast Guard vessels in the itime industry employers can upload In times of need, America’s com- hensive plan to ensure that the absence of world and do the same for the nation’s their job openings to this website, and mercial fleet and mariners provide sealift qualified and experienced mariners in the 40,000 commercial vessels. More than veterans and active military can search capacity to move troops and cargoes — workforce does not become an Achilles’ 937 million tons of cargo, including grain, the hundreds of maritime-related careers sometimes at a moment’s notice. heel limiting our military sealift operations coal, petroleum, consumer goods and currently posted. Sustaining a ready reserve force equipped and our national security,” said crude materials, are moved annually by Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby, adminis- with U.S.-flagged vessels and American Congressman Garamendi. the U.S. maritime industry in order to sus- trator of the U.S. Maritime Administration, civilian mariners is vitally important for As veterans consider career paths tain our nation and support fundamental understands the importance of sustaining the nation’s security. following their military service, the mar- U.S. industries. America’s commercial fleet and the need to Congressman Duncan Hunter (R- itime industry presents numerous opportu- All veterans and active service mem- maintain an adequate number of trained CA), chairman of the Subcommittee on nities that build on their valuable skills bers are encouraged to create a free profile mariners for national security. Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation and dedication to America’s security. at https://www.militarytomaritime.org, “The Jones Act is a de facto layer of and a Marine veteran of the wars in Iraq While those with sea-going experience where they can find, track, and apply for our national security. U.S. shipyards build, and Afghanistan, has been a long-time can get a head start on many careers in the fulfilling and family-waged maritime repair, maintain and modernize the largest champion for the hiring of veterans into domestic maritime industry, there are careers across the nation. 4 • American Maritime Officer March 2018

STAR Center will offer new engineering continued professional development courses As part of our ongoing effort to enhance course offerings available to American in the following area concerning Machine Tools: Maritime Officers members and applicants, and to provide opportunities for continued pro- • Shop Safety fessional development, STAR Center will now offer the following courses: • Mechanical Hardware Controls and Instrumentation (professional development) course — the theory of • Reading Drawings operation is the focus in this two-week professional development introduction to control • Manual Operating Tools systems. Upon completion, the learning outcome is a demonstration and understanding of • Dimensional Measurement the theoretical fundamentals of instrumentation and automatic control systems aboard ships. • Materials Topics include: • Layout • Control Systems • Preparation for Machining Operations • Controller Action • Sawing Machines • Pressure Measurement and Control • Drilling Machines • Temperature Measurement and Control • Turning Machines • Level Measurement and Control • Blueprint Reading and Sketching • Analytical Instrumentation STAR has scheduled the first offering of these courses for AMO members and appli- • Symbols and Diagrams cants as follows: • Process Control Methods • Controls and Instrumentation (professional development): August 6 • Instrument Calibration and Controller Tuning • Machine Shop: July 23 Machine Shop course — the objective of this two-week U.S. Coast Guard approved Any questions regarding these courses should be directed to STAR Center OICEW (officer in charge of an engineering watch) professional development course is to Director of Member Training Jerry Pannell at (800) 942-3220 Ext. 7507 or via e-mail: introduce the student to basic Machine Tool operations with an emphasis on the use of the [email protected]. lathe, including subjects on Machine Tool operations stated in 46 CFR 11.950. Upon com- Enrollment questions or applications should be directed to Student Services at (800) pletion, the learning outcome is knowledge, understanding and a demonstrated proficiency 942-3220 Ext. 201 or via e-mail: [email protected].

STAR Center receives Nautical Institute approval for new Dynamic Positioning Revalidation course The Dynamic Positioning (DP) Revalidation course (five days) is intended for those course. In cases which the participant subsequently revalidates by completion of the full who have already been issued a DP Operator certificate from the Nautical Institute (NI), sea time requirement of 150 DP sea time days, the next revalidation may be undertaken as but who are unable to revalidate their DPO certificate due to insufficient DP sea time. The if for the first time. overall course aim is to update the DPOs with information on the latest rules and regula- The DP Revalidation course may be completed up to six months before the tions, position references and sensors, known DP incidents and lessons learned. revalidation date set by the NI, and the certificate will be valid for a period of 12 months only. Entry standards STAR Center will be offering this course August 27 (subject to minimum enroll- The minimum entry requirement is a DPO certificate issued by The NI. DPO certifi- ment). This course will take the place of the DP Advanced course currently scheduled to cates issued by the NI are valid for a five-year period and normally require 150 days DP begin on that date. time to be renewed. Any questions regarding this course should be directed to STAR Center Director If the participant is completing this course for the first time, there is no minimum DP of Member Training Jerry Pannell at (800) 942-3220 Ext. 7507 or via e-mail: sea time requirement to revalidate the DPO certificate. If the participant is completing the [email protected]. course for a second or subsequent time, a minimum of 28 days DP sea time will be required Enrollment questions or applications should be directed to Student Services at (800) to revalidate. This DP time may be completed either prior to or after the revalidation 942-3220 Ext. 201 or via e-mail: [email protected].

AMO aboard the Chemical Pioneer

American Maritime Officers members working aboard the Chemical Pioneer in November, here in Houston, Texas, included Tankerman PIC Observer Matthew Hayes, Third Mate Tyler Redinger, Third Mate Mike Zienty and Chief Mate Sam Lama. First Assistant Engineer Mike Hagan Third Assistant Engineer Jake Barritt

Merchant Mariner Credential STCW renewal requirements Members and applicants of American Maritime Officers are reminded there are addi- within five years of renewal tional Merchant Mariner Credential renewal requirements for STCW endorsements in Basic If you meet the above requirements, the USCG will renew STCW endorsements VI/1 Training and Advanced Fire Fighting. — BT; VI/3 — AFF and VI/2 — PSC. In order to renew your STCW endorsements for Basic Training (Reg. VI/1) and NOTE: Those on ROS vessels receive sea service credit towards STCW as they reg- Advanced Fire Fighting (VI/3) you must have: ularly hold fire and boat drills (letter from operating company may be required). • 360 days sea service onboard any vessel that is required to hold regular fire and Additional information on renewal requirements can be found on the STAR Center emergency drills, and abandon ship drills website: https://www.star-center.com/stcw2010-renewal.html. • Basic Training Revalidation (BT) — one-day course, dated within five BT/AFF Revalidation is regularly scheduled at STAR Center. Due to heavy demand, years of renewal AMO Members are encouraged to register for BT/AFF at least two to three months ahead • Advanced Fire Fighting Revalidation (AFF) — one-day course, dated of their desired course dates. March 2018 American Maritime Officer • 5

U.S. Coast Guard: Direct submission of Medical Certificate applications to National Maritime Center The following bulletin was released by the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime found on the NMC website (https://tinyurl.com/y733ly4g). Center and is available online: https://tinyurl.com/ycla8q46. At this time, direct submission to the NMC is only for the medical certificate appli- To continuously improve our services to mariners, the Coast Guard has established a cation. Applications for a Merchant Mariner Credential (CG-719B/MMC) cannot be sub- new option for submission of medical certificate applications (CG-719K and CG-719KE mitted directly to the NMC. Any e-mailed application for an MMC, with or without a med- forms). Beginning February 1, 2018, mariners may submit medical certificate only applica- ical certificate application, made directly to the NMC will be deleted and the applicant will tions directly to the National Maritime Center (NMC). Regional Examination Centers get an e-mail response with directions on how to resubmit their application(s) to an REC. (RECs) will continue to accept medical certificate application submissions as well. If you have any questions, please contact the NMC Customer Service Center by e- The requirements for submission have not changed with the exception that, mail ([email protected]), by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662), via our online beginning on February 1, 2018, submissions to the NMC can be made via e-mail to chat system (https://tinyurl.com/yb9b8t6l), or by visiting our website [email protected]. Electronic submission requirements can be (https://tinyurl.com/y7dw7o39).

Congressman Graves highlights importance of maritime transportation infrastructure at hearing on next WRDA The following is excerpted from the Army Corps of tration for non-federal stakeholders across Effectiveness of USACE Civil Works.” opening statement of Congressman Garret Engineers. Right the Nation. There are many good operational Graves (R-LA) at a January 18 hearing of now, there is a According to the National improvements in that memo that reduce the Subcommittee on Water Resources and backlog of 1,000 Association of Environmental Professionals redundancies and delegate decision making Environment in the House of projects totaling “Annual NEPA Report for 2015,” the Corps authorities to appropriate levels. I look for- Representatives. Rep. Graves, the chairman approximately takes, on average, over 6 years to complete ward to hearing more about these efforts of the subcommittee, noted the input gath- $96 billion in an Environmental Impact Statement. The and making sure these reforms are being ered during the hearing will “help the com- need. With an Council on Environmental Quality esti- diligently implemented. mittee develop our next WRDA (Water annual Corps bud- mates that environmental permitting deliv- Additionally, WRRDA 2014 and Resources Development Act) legislation for get of about $6 ery times take, on average, about 4.7 years. WRDA 2016 set frameworks for alternative this year.” billion, the simple The status quo is simply not good finance and delivery tools for the Corps to The United States is a maritime reality is that we enough. take advantage of. Many of these tools have nation. Much of our nation’s success, and will likely never catch up. Therefore it is There are, however, some steps in the yet to be implemented. future successes, are dependent on our ports important that we examine process improve- right direction. In June of last year, Mr. In the end, we have a lot of work to and waterways system. With 41 states ments to drive efficient project delivery. James C. Dalton, the Director of Civil do in order to ensure that our water being served by ports and waterways, and The Corp’s inability to complete pro- Works for the Army Corps, who is here with resources system can sustain the competi- 25,000 miles of inland and intracoastal jects, or even approve permits in a timely us today, released a memo entitled “Further tiveness of the American economy and pro- waterways, this system is integrally tied to fashion has become a major source of frus- Advancing Project Delivery Efficiency and tect our national security. the economic development and global com- petitiveness of our nation. But this system is aging. The average age of our locks is over 60 years old, well beyond their intended design life. The AMO onboard result is numerous delays that impact the half a billion tons of cargo that flow on as John J. these waters every year. Our ports, through which 99 percent of overseas trade passes, Boland enters struggle to maintain their navigation chan- nels at their fully authorized depths, let alone a depth to allow for even bigger ships winter lay-up that are increasingly the global norm. Members of American Maritime It is not just our navigation system Officers working aboard the John J. that needs to be upgraded, but also our lev- Boland as the vessel entered winter ees and dam systems, which are on average lay-up in Toledo, Ohio in January over 50 years old. This vast network of lev- included First Assistant Engineer ees and dams is critical to protecting mil- Andrew Morgan, Second A.E. Dale lions of people in cities and towns across Miller and Third A.E. Terry Gerry. the Nation, as well as providing essential AMO represents all licensed offi- benefits such as water supply, irrigation, cers aboard the American and hydropower. Steamship Company vessel. Central to all of these issues is the

Poe and MacArthur Locks AMO conducts Great Lakes undergoing winter maintenance The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is Planned winter maintenance work includes: informational meetings performing critical maintenance on the Poe Poe Lock miter and quoin block replace- and MacArthur Locks during the seasonal ment, Poe Lock Gate 2 embedded anchor- closing of the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. age replacement, Poe Lock Gate 3 cylinder Marie, Mich., which runs from January 15 seal replacement, North Poe Lock valve to March 25, the Army Corps Detroit maintenance, MacArthur Lock embedded District reported. anchorage replacement, MacArthur Lock “It is vitally important that we keep filling valve seal replacement and the infrastructure at the Soo Locks in good MacArthur Lock bevel gear replacement. working order,” said District Engineer Lt. More than 4,500 vessels carrying up Col. Dennis Sugrue. “The district puts a to 80 million tons of cargo maneuver In February, American Maritime Officers National President Paul Doell; AMO high priority on keeping the locks func- through the locks annually. Iron ore, coal, Plans Executive Director Steve Nickerson; AMO National Vice President, tioning safely and reliably for the benefit wheat and limestone are among the most Great Lakes, John Clemons; and AMO Senior National Assistant Vice of our nation.” frequently carried commodities. Opened in President Brian Krus participated in three informational meetings for Great While closed to navigation, crews 1969, the Poe Lock is 1,200 feet long. The Lakes members. Meetings were held at the Key Lakes Senior Officers will be busy with maintenance projects on MacArthur Lock was opened in 1943 and is Conference in Orlando, Fla. (above), and in Traverse City and Alpena, Mich. both the Poe and MacArthur Locks. 800 feet long. 6 • American Maritime Officer March 2018

AMO aboard Commerce tanker Maersk Department Michigan determines

American Maritime Officers members working aboard M/T excessive Maersk Michigan in February included Chief Mate Karen steel imports Laycock, Captain Thua Pham, Third Mate Joseph Severson and Second Mate William pose threat Harris. Photos courtesy of Captain Thua Pham to national security In a report completed in January and released in February, the U.S. Commerce American Maritime Officers Department determined “the displacement members working aboard of domestic steel by excessive imports and M/T Maersk Michigan in the consequent adverse impact of those February included Second quantities of steel imports on the econom- Mate Wayne Archer and ic welfare of the domestic steel industry, Captain Thua Pham. along with the circumstance of global excess capacity in steel, are ‘weakening our internal economy’ and therefore ‘threaten to impair’ the national security as defined in Section 232 (of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962).” Following the release of the report, President Trump announced the U.S. would impose a tariff of 25 percent on imported steel. On March 8, the President signed a proclamation to set enactment of the steel import tariff with limited exceptions, as AMO members working well as a proclamation imposing a 10 per- aboard M/T Maersk Michigan cent tariff on imported aluminum. in February included Third In its report, the Commerce Assistant Engineer Marijan Department noted: “The continued rising Strk, Chief Engineer levels of imports of foreign steel threaten to Raymond Halsted and First impair the national security by placing the A. E. Marc Salerno. U.S. steel industry at substantial risk of dis- placing the basic oxygen furnace and other steelmaking capacity, and the related supply chain needed to produce steel for critical infrastructure and national defense. “Free markets globally are adverse- ly affected by substantial chronic global excess steel production led by China. While U.S. steel production capacity has remained flat since 2001, other steel pro- ducing nations have increased their pro- AMO members working aboard duction capacity, with China alone able to M/T Maersk Michigan in produce as much steel as the rest of the February included First world combined. This overhang of excess Assistant Engineer Marc capacity means that U.S. steel producers, Salerno, Second A.E. for the foreseeable future, will face Theodore Elmendorf and Third increasing competition from imported A.E. Marijan Strk. steel as other countries export more steel to the United States to bolster their own economic objectives. “Since defense and critical infrastructure requirements alone are not sufficient to support a robust steel industry, U.S. steel producers must be financially viable and competitive in the commercial market to be available to produce the needed steel output in a timely and cost AMO members in the efficient manner. In fact, it is the ability to Engineering Department of quickly shift production capacity used for the M/T Maersk Michigan in commercial products to defense and criti- February included Third cal infrastructure production that provides Assistant Engineer Marijan the United States a surge capability that is Strk, First A.E. Marc vital to national security, especially in an Salerno, Chief Engineer unexpected or extended conflict or nation- Raymond Halsted and al emergency. It is that capability which is Second A.E. Theodore now at serious risk; as imports continue to Elmendorf. With them are take business away from domestic produc- SIU QMED Walden Galacgac ers, these producers are in danger of and QMED Lateef Sanusi. falling below minimum viable scale and are at risk of having to exit the market and substantially close down production ◆ See Steel Imports Page 7 March 2018 American Maritime Officer • 7

Fast sealift ships Pollux and Regulus activated The fast sealift ships Pollux and Regulus were successfully activated from the reserve fleet in Orange, Texas in January. Photos courtesy of Captain Robert Lansden

Far right: Chris Wallace, a former chief engineer on the Pollux, worked as a consultant with Chief Engineer Jim Hotchkiss during the ship’s successful activation, during which the Pollux achieved all required speed runs and the maximum speed of 30 knots.

Following the successful completion of sea trials, the traditional Mardi Gras King Cake was presented and shared with the crew of the Pollux. In the picture are (from left) MARAD Surveyor Onboard the Regulus during the activation Chuck Lafollette; American Maritime Officers member Captain of the two SL-7s was AMO member Robert Lansden; Jay Fleming, MARAD headquarters, Captain Robert Watham (left), here with Washington, D.C.; and AMO member Chief Mate Jon Weirauch. two Sabine pilots.

the price differential between U.S. market industry to maintain economic viability. reduction in the number of basic oxygen Steel Imports prices and global market prices (often “A U.S. steel industry that is not furnace facilities — either through clo- caused by foreign government steel inter- financially viable to invest in the latest tech- sures or idling of facilities due to import Continued from Page 6 vention) ensures that the U.S. will remain nologies, facilities, and long-term research competition — increases the chance of capacity, often permanently. an attractive market for foreign steel absent and development, nor retain skilled workers further closures that place the United “Steel producers in the United quotas or tariffs. Excessive imports of steel, while attracting a next-generation work- States at serious risk of being unable to States are facing widespread harm from now consistently above 30 percent of force, will be unable to meet the current and increase production to the levels needed in mounting imports. Growing global steel domestic demand, have displaced domestic projected needs of the U.S. military and past national emergencies. The displace- capacity, flat or declining world demand, steel production, the related skilled work- critical infrastructure sectors. Moreover, the ment of domestic product by excessive the openness of the U.S. steel market, and force, and threaten the ability of this critical market environment for U.S. steel produc- imports is having the serious effect of ers has deteriorated dramatically since the causing the domestic industry to operate at 2001 Report, when the Department con- unsustainable levels, reducing employ- cluded that imports of iron ore and semi-fin- ment, diminishing research and develop- ished steel do not ‘fundamentally threaten’ ment, inhibiting capital expenditures, and Norfolk rescues four sailors the ability of U.S. industry to meet national causing a loss of vital skills and know- security needs. how. The present capacity operating rates “The department’s investigation for those remaining plants continue to be indicates that the domestic steel industry below those needed for financial sustain- has declined to a point where further clo- ability. These conditions have been further sures and consolidation of basic oxygen exacerbated by the 22 percent surge in furnace facilities represents a ‘weakening imports thus far in 2017 compared with of our internal economy’ as defined in 2016. Imports are now consistently above Section 232. The more than 50 percent 30 percent of U.S. domestic demand.”

Construction of second U.S. Coast Guard heavy icebreaker needed for Great Lakes system The following is excerpted from a (GLNS). The cargoes cancelled because of position statement seeking legislation in the ice cost the nation 6,000 jobs and $1.1 bil- Above: Captain Noah Myrus, 115th Congress funding construction of a lion in economic activity. A few more master on the M/V Norfolk, with second Great Lakes heavy icebreaker pub- delays or cancellations and the losses would the four sailors rescued from the lished in January by the Great Lakes have been even greater. Several steel mills S/V Moflete. Photos courtesy of Maritime Task Force, a labor-industry and power plants were running dangerously Captain Noah Myrus coalition of which American Maritime low on raw materials and fuel. Officers is a member. Ice is a fact of life on the Lakes, in The winters of 2013/2014 and even a mild winter. That’s why the U.S. 2014/2015 were the most severe experi- Coast Guard has nine icebreaking assets enced on the Lakes since the early 1990s. assigned to the GLNS. However, six of the During the winter of 2013/2014, 92.5 per- U.S. Coast Guard’s nine Great Lakes ice- Right: Norfolk Chief Engineer cent of the Lakes were ice-covered. The breakers are rapidly nearing the end of their Jim Brown with one of the following winter ice coverage peaked at useful lives. The Coast Guard has begun a sailors rescued from the S/V 88.8 percent. Service Life Extension Program (SLEP), Moflete. The near arctic conditions all but par- ◆ alyzed the Great Lakes Navigation System See Icebreaker Page 11 8 • American Maritime Officer March 2018

AMO Safety and Education Plan — Simulation, Training, Assessment & Research Center (954) 920-3222 / (800) 942-3220 — 2 West Dixie Highway, Dania Beach, FL 33004 General Courses

Combined Basic & Advanced Low Flash Point Fuel Operations (IGF 5 days 16 April 23 July Code/LNG Fuel) Course

Confined Space Entry 3 days 11 April 20 June 12 September 31 October

Advanced Fire Fighting 5 days 30 April

Basic Safety Training — All 4 modules must be completed within 12 months: Personal Safety Techniques (Mon/Tues — 1.5 days), Personal Safety & Social Responsibility (Tues pm — .5 days), 5 days 15 October Elementary First Aid (Wed — 1 day), Fire Fighting & Fire Prevention (Thurs/Fri — 2 days) — not required. if Combined Basic & Adv. Fire Fighting completed within 12 months.

Basic Safety Training — Refresher 3 days 21 March 17 October

Chemical Safety — Advanced 5 days 10 September

ECDIS 5 days 16 April 6 August 15 October

Environmental Awareness (includes Oily Water Separator) 3 days Please Call

Fast Rescue Boat 4 days 30 April 25 June 23 July 4 September 22 October

GMDSS — Requires after-hour homework 10 days 16 July

LNG Tankerman PIC 8 days Please Call

LNG Simulator Training — Enrollment priority in the LNG simulator course is given to qualified member candidates for employment and/or observation opportunities with AMO contracted LNG companies. In all 5 days 2 April cases successful completion of the LNG PNC classroom course is prerequisite.

Proficiency in Survival Craft (Lifeboat) 4 days 2 April

Safety Officer Course 2 days 14 June 4 October

Tankerman PIC DL — Classroom 5 days 30 April 11 June 29 October

Tankerman PIC DL — Simulator 10 days 14 May 9 July 20 August 17 September 8 October

Tankerman PIC DL — Accelerated Program 10 days Please Call

Train the Trainer 5 days 30 April 25 June 13 August 1, 22 October

Train the Trainer — Simulator Instructors (Requires after hours work) 5 days 27 August

Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties — VPDSD 2 days 11 October

Vessel/Company Security Officer — Includes Anti-Piracy 3 days 11 June 1 October

Crowd Management 1 day Please Call

Crisis Management & Human Behavior 1 day Please Call

Basic Training & Advanced Fire Fighting Revalidation (Required by first 2 days 26 March 9 April 10 May 4, 18, June 9, 30 July 20 August 10, 24 Sep 11, 29 October credential renewal AFTER 1 Jan 2017)

EFA (Scheduled with Basic Training Revalidation BUT NOT REQUIRED 1 day 28 March 11 April 9 May 6, 20 June 11 July 22 August 12, 26 Sep 10, 31 October FOR STCW 2010)

Leadership & Management (required by ALL management level Deck 5 days 21 May 4 June 13 August 24 September and Engine officers by 1 Jan 2017)

Maritime Security Awareness 1/2 day Please Call

Medical Courses

Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 2 April

Elementary First Aid — Prerequisite for MCP within preceding 12 months 1 day 26 March 3 April 5 June 24 July 11 September 30 October

Prerequisite for MPIC within preceding 12 Medical Care Provider — 3 days 27 March 4 April 6 June 25 July 12 September 31 October months. Please fax EFA certificate when registering

Medical PIC — Please fax MCP certificate when registering 5 days 9 April 11 June 30 July 17 September 5 November

Urinalysis Collector Training 1 day 16 April 18 June 6 August

Breath Alcohol Test (BAT) — Alco Sensors 3 and 4 only 1 day 17 April 19 June 7 August

Screening Test Technician — QEDs a.m./Alco Mate 7000 p.m. 1 day 18 April 20 June 8 August

Medical PIC Refresher — MSC approved 3 days Please Call

Radar Courses

Radar Recertification 1 day 29 March 11, 12, 25, 26 April 9, 10 May 6, 7, 20, 21 June 11, 12 July 1, 2, 22, 23 August 12, 13, 26, 27 September 9, 10, 31 October

ARPA 4 days Please Call

Radar Recertification & ARPA 5 days Please Call

Original Radar Observer Unlimited 5 days Please Call

Deck Courses Meets STCW 2010 Advanced Bridge Resource Management — 5 days Leadership & Management gap closing requirements 21 May 30 July 29 October

(No equivalency) Must have Advanced Shiphandling for Masters — 5 days sailed as Chief Mate Unlimited 7 May 10 September 60 days seatime equiv. for 3rd Advanced Shiphandling for 3rd Mates — 10 days 2 April 14 May (PM) 4, 18 June 6, 20 August 17 September 15 October Mates

Advanced & Emergency Shiphandling — First Class Pilots, Great Lakes 5 days Please Call

Dynamic Positioning — Basic 5 days 14 May 23 July 29 October

Dynamic Positioning — Advanced 5 days 2 April 4 June

Dynamic Positioning — Revalidation 5 days 27 August

Navigational Watchkeeping Standardization & Assessment Program 5 days 21 May 11 June 30 July 27 August 10 September 15, 29 October

Third Mate (Unlimited or TOAR (Towing Officer Assessment Record) — 5 days 2 April 14 May 20 August 24 September Great Lakes) or 1600T Master License required AND OICNW required

Tug Training — ASD Assist (Azimuthing Stern Drive) 5 days 25 June March 2018 American Maritime Officer • 9 Deck Upgrade — STCW 2010 — Management Level (NVIC 10-14)— If sea service or training towards management level (Chief Mate/Master) upgrade started ON OR AFTER 24 March 2014 you must adhere to this new program of training. Completion of both required and optional courses listed below will include all Task Assessments required by NVIC 10-14 , providing ECDIS, GMDSS and ARPA have been previously completed.

Upgrade: Shiphandling at the Management Level 10 days 16 April 16 July 1 October

Upgrade: Advanced Meteorology — Requires after-hours homework 5 days 30 April 9 July 15 October

Advanced Stability 5 days 7 May 30 July 22 October

Search & Rescue 2 days 14 May 6 August 29 October

Management of Medical Care 1/2 day 16 May 8 August 31 October

Leadership & Management 5 days 21 May 4 June 13 August 24 September

Advanced Cargo — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 4 June 20 August

Marine Propulsion Plants — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 11 June 27 August

Advanced Celestial — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 25 June 10 September

Advanced Navigation — Optional for task sign-off 5 days 18 June 17 September Engineering Courses

Basic Electricity 10 days 30 April

Diesel Crossover 4 weeks 8 October

Gas Turbine Endorsement 10 days 14 May 23 July

High Voltage Safety Course (Classroom) 3 days 7 May

Hydraulics/ Pneumatics 5 days 21 May 6 August

Machine Shop 10 days 23 July

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) 5 days 14 May 27 August

Refrigeration (Operational Level) 5 days 7 May 16 July 17 September

Refrigeration (Management Level) 5 days 14 May 23 July 24 September

Steam Endorsement 4 weeks 16 April 11 June 10 September

Controls and Instrumentation 10 days 6 August

Open to eligible Chief Mates and Masters on a space available Welding & Metallurgy Skills & Practices — 2 weeks 4 June 20 August 24 September basis. Interested participants should apply online and will be confirmed 2 weeks prior to start date.

Engine Upgrade — STCW 2010 — Management Level (NVIC 15-14) — If sea service or training towards management level (1A/E-Chief Eng.) upgrade started ON OR AFTER 24 March 2014, you must adhere to this new program of training. Completion of both required and optional courses listed below will include all Task Assessments required by NVIC 15-14. By completing the series, no expiration limitation will be placed on your STCW credential. See STAR Center’s website for full details: https://www.star-center.com/stcw2010-engine.upgrade.html

Leadership & Managerial Skills (G500 as amended) — 5 days 21 May 4 June 13 August 24 September REQUIRED

ERM (E050 as amended) — REQUIRED (unless previously taken 5 days 18 June 22 October for gap closing or original license)

Upgrade: Electrical, Electronics & Control Engineering (Management Level) (E133 as amended) (UPGRADE with tasks) 5 days 11 June 6 August 1 October Required unless previously taken for gap closing or original license

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — General Engineering & Procedure (E135 as amended) — OPTIONAL: Tasks can be 5 days 25 June 15 October signed off onboard

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Motor (E120 as amended) — 3 days 2 July 10 October OPTIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Steam (E121 as amended) — 5 days 9 July OPTIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard

STCW Upgrade Task Assessment — Gas Turbine (E122 as 5 days 16 July 29 October amended) — OPTIONAL: Tasks can be signed off onboard MSC Training Program Basic CBR Defense 1 day 22 March 19 July 20 September

Damage Control 1 day 21 March 18 July 19 September

Heat Stress Afloat / Hearing Conservation Afloat 1 day 2 April

Helicopter Fire Fighting 1 day 20 March 6 April 17 July 18 September

Marine Environmental Programs (with CBRD) 1/2 day 22 March 19 July 20 September

Marine Sanitation Devices 1/2 day 4 April

Must have completed full CBRD & DC once in MSC Readiness Refresher — 2 days 5 April 16 July 17 September career.

MSC Watchstander — BASIC — Once in career, SST grads grandfathered 2 days 16 April 6 August 7, 17, 31 Required for all SRF members 1 day 13, 17, 27 April 4, 25 May 15, 29 June 13, 27 July 14, 28 Sep 19 October MSC Watchstander — ADVANCED — August

MSC Ship Reaction Force — Required every three years for SRF members 3 days 18 April 8 August

Small Arms — Initial & Sustainment (Refresher) Training — Open to members & applicants eligible for employment through AMO (w/in 1 year) or 4 days 26 March 9, 23, 30 April 21 May 11, 25 June 9, 23 July 13, 27 August 10, 24 Sep 15, 29 October MSC on MARAD contracted vessels.

Water Sanitation Afloat 1/2 day 4 April

Self-Study, CDs and Online Courses

Afloat Environmental Protection Coordinator CD

Anti-Terrorism Level 1 Online

Crew Endurance Management CD

DOT Hazardous Materials Transportation Training CD

EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification Examination Self Study

Prudent Mariner’s Guide to Right Whale Protection CD

Qualified Assessor Online

Vessel General Permit — EPA CD

NOTICE: AMO members planning to attend STAR Center in Dania Beach, Florida — either to prepare for license upgrading or to undergo specialty training—are asked to call the school to confirm course schedule and space availability in advance.

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY AS TO STUDENTS: The Simulation, Training, Assessment and Research Center (STAR), established under the auspices of the American Maritime Officers Safety and Education Plan, admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin or sex to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the Center. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin or sex in administration of its educational policies, admission policies and other programs administered by the Center. 10 • American Maritime Officer March 2018

TOLEDO, OH 43604 One Maritime Plaza Third Floor FAX: (419) 255-2350 John E. Clemons, National Vice President, Great Lakes [email protected] (800) 221-9395 ext. 6003 / Mobile: (419) 205-3509 Brian D. Krus, Senior National Assistant Vice President AMO NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS [email protected] (800) 221-9395 ext. 6007 / Mobile: (216) 571-9666 DANIA BEACH, FL 33004-4109 Michelle Moffitt, Dispatcher ([email protected]) 601 S. Federal Highway (800) 221-9395 ext. 6005 / Mobile: (419) 481-3470 (954) 921-2221 / (800) 362-0513 Paul Doell, National President GALVESTON, TX 77551 [email protected] 2724 61st Street, Suite B, PMB 192 Extension 1001 David M. Weathers, National Vice President, Inland Waters Mobile: (954) 881-5651 [email protected] FAX: (954) 926-5112 (800) 362-0513 ext. 2001 / Mobile: (409) 996-7362 Charles A. Murdock, National Secretary-Treasurer FAX: (409) 737-4454 [email protected] Extension 1004 / Mobile: (954) 531-9977 / FAX: (954) 367-1025 SAN FRANCISCO / OAKLAND, CA 94607 Joseph Z. Gremelsbacker, National Vice President, Deep Sea 1121 7th Street, Second Floor [email protected] Oakland, CA 94607 Extension 1009 / Mobile: (954) 673-0680 / FAX: (954) 367-1029 FAX: (954) 367-1064 Todd Christensen, East Coast Representative Daniel E. Shea, National Executive Vice President ([email protected]) [email protected] / Mobile: (561) 806-3768 Mobile: (415) 269-5795 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 5001 Marie Doruth, Executive Assistant to the National President William Barrere, West Coast Representative ([email protected]) [email protected] Mobile: (415) 654-2671 Extension 1017 / Mobile: (954) 290-8109 FAX: (954) 926-5112 NEW ORLEANS / COVINGTON, LA 70434 Dispatch: (800) 345-3410 / FAX: (954) 926-5126 P.O. Box 5424 Brendan Keller, Dispatcher ([email protected]) Covington, LA 70434 Extension 1061 / Mobile: (954) 817-4000 Daniel J. Robichaux, National Assistant Vice President Robert Anderson, Dispatcher ([email protected]) [email protected] Extension 1060 / Mobile: (954) 599-9771 (954) 367-1036 / Mobile: (985) 201-5462 / FAX: (954) 367-1062 Member Services: Extension 1050 / FAX: (954) 367-1066 STAR CENTER [email protected] STUDENT SERVICES/LODGING AND COURSE INFORMATION OFFICES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 WASHINGTON, D.C. 20024 (954) 920-3222 ext. 201 / (800) 942-3220 ext. 201 490 L’Enfant Plaza East SW, Suite 7204 Course Attendance Confirmation: (800) 942-3220 ext. 200 (202) 479-1166 / (800) 362-0513 ext. 7001 24 Hours: (954) 920-3222 ext.7999 / FAX: (954) 920-3140 Paul Doell, National President [email protected] SERVICES Extension 7004 Mobile: (954) 881-5651 FINANCIAL ADVISERS: THE ATLANTIC GROUP AT MORGAN STANLEY J. Michael Murphy, National Vice President, Government Relations (800) 975-7061 / www.morganstanleyfa.com/theatlanticgroup [email protected] / [email protected] Extension 7013 / Mobile: (202) 560-6889 MEDICAL CLINIC AMO PLANS T. Christian Spain, National Assistant Vice President, Government Relations 2 West Dixie Highway 2 West Dixie Highway [email protected] Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312 Extension 7010 / Mobile: (202) 658-8887 / FAX: (202) 479-1188 (954) 927-5213 (800) 348-6515 FAX: (954) 929-1415 FAX: (954) 922-7539 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19113 1 International Plaza, Suite 550 LEGAL Chris Holmes, Contract Analyst (cholmes@amo‐union.org) (800) 362‐0513 ext. 4002 / Mobile: (856) 693‐0694 AMO Coast Guard Legal Aid General Counsel Program Glanstein LLP UPDATE CREDENTIALS, DOCUMENTS, TRAINING RECORDS Michael Reny 711 Third Ave., 17th Floor Secure File Upload: https://securetransfer.amo-union.org/ Mobile: (419) 346-1485 New York, NY 10017 E-mail: [email protected] (419) 243-1105/ (888) 853-4662 (212) 370-5100 / (954) 662-9407 Questions: (800) 362-0513 ext. 1050 [email protected] FAX: (212) 697-6299

USCG issues guidelines for evaluating potential courses of action when a U.S.-bound vessel has an inoperable ballast water management system The U.S. Coast Guard in February issued a policy letter providing guidance to vessel even if not bound to or departing from the United States. During discussions with many peo- masters, owners, operators, agents and persons in charge for evaluating potential courses of ple involved in the marine industry, we continually hear of how difficult BWMS are to action when a vessel bound for a U.S. port has an inoperable ballast water management system maintain, yet we also hear that the systems are only used during voyages to the U.S. and (BWMS). The policy letter does not address situations where the inoperable BWMS is the that some crews receive little or no training in operating and maintaining the system.” result of an emergency situation caused by weather, vessel flooding or other such conditions. The policy letter notes the U.S. is not a party to the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments (BWM Convention) and will not accept BWM Convention certificates as equivalent to U.S. domestic requirements. U.S. domestic requirements are separate and different than those of the BWM Convention. Monthly Membership Meetings The guidance in the policy letter applies to ships using a Coast Guard approved BWMS, or a system accepted by the Coast Guard as an alternate management system. Regular monthly membership meetings for AMO will be held during the The complete policy letter is available online (https://tinyurl.com/y7xsd64t). week following the first Sunday of every month at 1 p.m. local time. The policy letter concludes: “Vessel owners and operators must maintain the BWMS Meetings will be held on Monday at AMO National Headquarters (on onboard their vessels in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications, 33 CFR Tuesday when Monday is a contract holiday). The next meetings will 151.2025(a)(1). Additionally, they must train the master and crew on the application of bal- take place on the following dates: last water and sediment management and treatment procedures, 33 CFR 151.2050(h). For the BWMS to operate reliably, they must be used regularly by crews trained to use the AMO National Headquarters: April 2, May 7 BWMS. The Coast Guard also highly encourages vessels to use their BWMS regularly, March 2018 American Maritime Officer • 11

Icebreaker Continued from Page 7 Memorial ice fishing derby but that will take several years to complete and will require the vessel being modern- supports Hollandstrong ized to be out of service for an ice season. The Hollandstrong Ice Fishing Derby was held in February on Two other vessels tasked with icebreak- Round Pound in Maine. The event supports the scholarship ing, while newer, were not designed for fund established in memory of Michael Holland, an AMO that mission, so have major limitations. engineering officer who was lost on El Faro on October 1, Only construction of a twin to the 2015. Here, Michael Holland’s mother, Deb Roberts, receives Mackinaw, the new heavy icebreaker AMO’s contribution to Hollandstrong at the ice fishing derby. launched in 2005, will ensure Great Lakes More information about the scholarship fund is available at shipping can continue during the long ice https://www.hollandstrong.org. season. During the winter of 2013/2014 U.S.-flag lakers suffered more than $6 million in damages to their hulls because the U.S. and Canadian Coast Guards did not have enough assets available to keep USCG: Harmonizing Medical Certificate and MMC for the shipping lanes open. Many vessels delayed their sailing the next season rather than risk more ice damage. mariners who do not hold an STCW endorsement Cargoes that move during the ice sea- The following bulletin was released by the U.S. Coast CG-MMC Policy Letter 01-18 son include iron ore for steel production, Guard’s National Maritime Center and does not apply to (https://tinyurl.com/yb4lxfy3) provides detailed guidelines coal for power generation, and limestone holders of STCW endorsements, federal first class pilot for those mariners who wish to harmonize the expiration and cement for the construction industry endorsements, or applicants who were previously issued a dates of their original or renewed MMC and Medical and liquid-bulk products as such fuels and time-restricted medical certificate. Certificate. heating oil. For example, during the In accordance with Section 304 of the 2015 Coast Guard For further information, contact the NMC call center 2015/2016 ice season (December 16 to Authorization Act, Public Law No. 114-120; mariners will be via e-mail to [email protected], via online chat April 15), U.S-flag lakers carried 11.5 mil- allowed to request harmonized expiration dates of their (https://tinyurl.com/yb9b8t6l), or via phone at 1-888- lion tons of cargo, or nearly 14 percent of Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and Medical Certificate. IASKNMC (427-5662). their 2016 total. Shipping must continue during the ice season for a number of reasons. First and economy is strong, the Great Lakes fleet has Canadian lakers than American, and they Authorization Act of 2015 authorized the foremost, the companies that rely on Great little reserve capacity and cannot deliver operate in ice, but are assisted mostly by Commandant to design and build a new ice- Lakes shipping to deliver their raw materi- customers’ annual requirements unless able U.S. icebreakers. breaker for its Great Lakes fleet. The als must keep stockpiling costs to the bare to operate in ice. Once a new Mackinaw is funded, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2017 minimum. Also, during periods of peak A second heavy icebreaker is also construction can begin almost immedi- (Public Law 115-31) provided $2 million in demand, customers are using virtually all critically needed to offset the downsizing ately. The new Mackinaw has proven actual funding to the U.S. Coast Guard the product as it is mined and shipped (“cur- of Canada’s icebreaking fleet on the quite effective. There is no need to make specifically for initial survey and design rent production” in industry terms). There is Lakes. Whereas Canada once had seven significant modifications to the design or work associated with the acquisition of an little excess capacity at the mines and quar- icebreakers stationed on the Lakes, it specifications. icebreaker that is at least as capable as ries, so production cannot be ramped up sig- now has but two. It is not easy to under- Progress has been made. The House USCGC Mackinaw to enhance icebreaking nificantly during the summer. When the stand this decision. There are more of Representatives’ Coast Guard capacity on the Great Lakes. 12 • American Maritime Officer March 2018

Maersk Peary serves in Operation Deep Freeze 2018 The crew of the Maersk Peary, here in February at McMurdo Station in Antarctica, delivered fuel to the sci- entific research base as part of Operation Deep Freeze for Military Sealift Command. AMO members working aboard the Maersk Peary during the mission included Captain Chris Fox, Chief Mate Joshua Squyres, Second Mate Barett Howell, Third Mates Michael Watkins and Will McDermott, Chief Engineer James Cook, First Assistant Engineer Ben White, Second A.E. Loren Anderson and Third A.E. Lee Wright. The Maersk Peary is manned in all licensed positions by American Maritime Officers. Photos courtesy of Captain Chris Fox and Ice Pilot Rob Lee

Chief Engineer James Cook and Captain Chris Fox stand in front of the Chief Engineer James Cook and Chief Maersk Peary with the ship’s stuffed Mate Joshua Squyres work on Maersk toy mascot at McMurdo Station in Peary’s radar scanner. February. The Maersk Peary arrives at the McMurdo Station ice pier for cargo operations as part of Operation Deep Freeze 2018. The tanker delivered nearly five million gallons of diesel fuel and 500,000 gallons of aviation fuel.

The Engine Department of the Maersk Peary during Operation Deep Freeze, here on the deck with volcano Mount Aribis in the background, included (front: left to AMO members working aboard the Maersk Peary during Operation Deep right) QMED Alex Amarra, Engine Cadet Nick Yarka, Second Assistant Engineer Freeze 2018 included Second Assistant Engineer Loren Anderson, Third Loren Anderson, Wiper Felix Lugo, First A.E. Ben White, Chief Engineer James Mate Michael Watkins, Chief Engineer James Cook and Third Mate Will Cook, (back: left to right) Engine Cadet Kaleb Burrell, Pumpman James Young, McDermott, here in front of the ship awaiting berthing. With them is SIU mem- Third A.E. Lee Wright and Engine Cadet Mara Duvernois. ber Wiper Felix Lugo.

The bridge crew on the Maersk Peary follows the course cleared by the Coast Guard ice breaker Polar Star during Operation Deep Freeze 2018. AMERICAN MARITIME OFFICERS

ANffiliaAtedT withI OSeafaNrersA InterLnat ioCnal UOnionN of NSorthT AmIerTica,U AFLT-CIOI O(‘SIUNA”) PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 5, 2018

PREAMBLE or disputes arising under any collective bargaining agreement to which this Union Section 3. (b) Where an applicant is permitted by We, the members of American Maritime is a party. rules established by the National Officers, (AMO), believe in the United Other workers may be accepted into Executive Board to deposit less than the States as a government of the people, by Section 3. membership and shall have such rights, full initiation fee with the obligation to the people and for the people, whose just privileges and benefits in this Union as complete payment thereafter, the powers are derived from the consent of the A majority vote of the membership shall may be prescribed by the National payments he has made toward his governed; a democracy in a republic, a be authorization for any action of this Executive Board. initiation fee shall not be returned to him sovereign nation of many sovereign states, Union unless otherwise specified in this unless he has been affirmatively denied a perfect Union, one and inseparable, Constitution. ARTICLE IV admission by this Union. In the event the established upon those principles of Membership Requirements, Duties applicant fails to complete payment of his freedom, equality, justice and humanity for Section 4. and Obligations initiation fee in the manner prescribed by which American patriots sacrificed their this Constitution, any payments made by lives. We therefore believe it is our duty to The powers of this Union shall be Section 1 . the applicant shall be forfeited and the our country to love it, to support its legislative, judicial and executive. Such applicant shall be deemed ineligible for Constitution, to obey its laws, to respect its powers shall include: the formation of and Any person duly qualified in accordance admission into membership. flag and to defend it against all enemies. issuance of charters to subordinate bodies, with Article III may become a member or affiliates and divisions, corporate or be reinstated as a member of this Union. Section 4. ARTICLE I otherwise, the formation of and Name participation in benefit or other funds and Section 2 . Prior to acceptance into membership, the authority of the National Executive applicants shall make every effort to This Union is a National Labor Board to designate the Trustees (a) Any person filing an application for understand this Constitution and their Organization and shall be known by the representing this Union on such funds; and membership or an application for duties to this Union and its members. name and title of American Maritime the establishment of enterprises for the reinstatement may be admitted or Officers (AMO). benefit of this Union and similar ventures. readmitted into membership, as the case Section 5. This Union shall exercise all of its powers may be, in accordance with the terms of ARTICLE II with respect to subordinate bodies and this Constitution and such additional rules An applicant is required to truthfully Objects divisions created or chartered by it. For which are adopted, from time to time, and complete the application for membership convenience of administration and in published by the National Executive provided by this Union. Failure to do so furtherance of its policies, this Union may shall result in forfeiture of all fees paid and Section 1. Board. make its property, facilities and personnel removal as an applicant unless otherwise available for the use by and on behalf of directed by the National Executive Board. The objects of this Union shall be to unite (b) The term “membership book” shall such subordinate bodies, affiliates and its members fraternally; to improve, mean the official certificate issued as divisions. The National Executive Board Section 6. maintain, promote and protect the evidence of membership in this Union. shall, by majority vote, be empowered to standards of the craft; and to regulate the authorize the formation of or issuance of No applicant shall be granted membership seagoing employment-related business (c) The term “permit number” shall mean charters to subordinate bodies, affiliates who is a member of another maritime matters of members of this Union. the official permit number of applicant and divisions. status issued to applicant upon the union. Section 2. applicant’s first employment assignment. Section 5. Section 7. (a) This Union shall be the exclusive (d) Prior to being granted member status, This union is committed to a policy of To preserve unity and to promote the representative for all of its members for applicants must have satisfied the non-discrimination with regard to race, common welfare of the membership, all the purpose of collective bargaining with initiation fee requirement as noted in this gender, sexual orientation, religion, age members of this Union shall uphold and respect to wages, benefits, hours and terms Constitution and have on file letters of and national origin both in its internal defend this Constitution and shall be and conditions of employment. Such recommendation from at least two (2) employment practices and referral governed by the provisions of this exclusive representation shall include the members. practices through its hiring halls. Constitution and National Executive power to negotiate and execute contracts Board or National Executive Committee requiring members to continue (e) The number of applicants to be granted rulings, orders and decisions . membership in this Union as a condition of ARTICLE III member status shall be as determined, employment and contracts requiring the Composition from time to time, by the National Section 8. employer to deduct, collect or assist in Executive Board. collecting from the members’ wages, fees, Section 1. Evidence of membership or other assessments, fines or contributions (f) The National Executive Board is affiliation with this Union shall, at all payable to this Union. All maritime officers, mariners and other authorized to, as it deems appropriate, individuals of good moral character and reject an application for membership or times, remain the property of this Union. Members may be required to show their (b) This Union is irrevocably authorized known qualifications regardless of drop an applicant from the rolls, provided evidence of membership in good standing and empowered exclusively to appear and nationality shall be eligible for that such rejected or dropped applicant in order to be admitted to Union meetings. act for all of its members on their behalf membership after having completed the may reapply for membership at least two before any Board, Court, Committee or requirements for applicants. (2) years after such rejection. Section 9. other tribunal in any matter affecting their status as employees, or as members of this Section 2. Section 3. Only members in good standing shall be Union, and exclusively to act as agent of allowed to vote at official membership all members and bind all of them in the All maritime officers, mariners and other (a) Applicants must pay the initiation fee meetings on matters affecting this Union presentation, prosecution and adjustment individuals who are nationals of other established by this Union within five (5) or in any referendum on any matter or in of grievances, complaints or disputes of countries and working on vessels, years. This initiation fee can be paid in a any election of National Officers and any kind or character arising out of the regardless of flag, owned or operated or lump sum or paid in five (5) equal annual National Executive Board Members. employer-employee relationship as fully controlled by American or foreign installments. If rejected by this Union for and to all intents and purposes as the interests shall also be eligible for any reason whatsoever, the fee paid shall Section 10. member might or could do if personally membership after having completed the be refunded upon the return of all official present. Said power shall include but not requirements for applicants. documents issued by this Union Members and applicants of this Union are be limited to the prosecution, adjustment ______evidencing the applicant’s status in this duty bound to recognize every other and settlement of grievances, complaints Union. ______member and shall not slander their February 2018 character, or willfully or maliciously injure (c) dues rate of each rating and the dues are fully paid through the current Board Members, National Representatives them in any way, on penalty of being initiation fee of applicants shall be quarter. Subject to applicable law, it shall and members shall be governed in this suspended or dropped from this Union. established by the National Executive be the duty of each individual member to order by: Members and applicants are expected to Board at the beginning of each calendar assume all the responsibilities of do all in their power to maintain the year and shall be applicable for the entire maintaining membership in good standing. (a) This Constitution; interest, the life and the usefulness of this calendar year. The dues rate each (b) Majority vote of the membership; Union. They shall comply with and member/applicant is required to pay shall Section 2. (c) National Executive Board; observe all provisions of all outstanding be determined by the rating within the (d) National Executive Committee. collective bargaining agreements under group in which the member/applicant is Any member who shall be in arrears for which they may be employed and observe registered, assigned or employed or by the membership dues for a period of one (1) Section 2. and comply with all the duly adopted rating for which he is receiving vacation year shall be dropped from membership decisions of the National Executive benefits on January 1st of each calendar unless otherwise ordered by the National National Headquarters shall be located in Board. year. If a member/applicant is not Executive Board, but in no case may such Dania Beach, Florida. The functions of assigned, employed or receiving vacation a member be maintained on the this Union shall be administered at and by Section 11. benefits on January 1st of any year, his membership rolls if the member is in National Headquarters. dues rate for the entire year shall be arrears for two (2) years in dues payments. (a) Members about to leave their determined on the basis of his first job Section 3. contracted positions shall report this to assignment or receipt of vacation benefits Section 3. this Union, which shall furnish, if possible, after January 1st of that year. Persons National Headquarters and Ports shall be a competent member to fill the vacancy. eligible to register in Group 1 on or after A member who is in arrears for fines, manned by such National Officers and Any member seeking a position shall January 1st of any year, must, in order to assessments or other indebtedness to this National Representatives as shall be report this to this Union. register for any job, pay the Group 1 3rd Union, and who does not pay this debt determined by the National Executive Assistant/3rd Officer rate, provided that within one (1) month of the due date, shall Board. (b) No member shall accept seagoing the first job assignment of the year shall automatically be dropped from the roll of employment outside of this union without determine the dues rate of such persons for membership without notice. Section 4. clearance from this union. the entire year. Section 4. National Executive Board (c) Members shall not be permitted to Pro-rated dues shall be assessed for accept a position upon any vessel until applicants in lieu of quarterly dues when The foregoing time limits shall not run: (a) Effective January 4, 2016, there shall they have reported to and have been shipped within 30 days of the next quarter. be a National Executive Board consisting cleared by this Union. (a) While a member is actually of the National President, National Members/Applicants, other than National participating in a strike or is locked out. Secretary-Treasurer, National Executive Section 12. Officers and National Executive Board (b) While a member is an in-patient in a Vice President, National Vice President, Members and National Representatives, hospital or has a documented disability. Deep Sea, National Vice President, Great Applicants for membership are duty bound employed in a shoreside capacity on (c) While a member is in the Armed Lakes, National Vice President, Inland to comply with all membership obligations whose behalf contributions are being made Services of the United States, provided Waters and National Vice President, as specified in this Constitution but shall to any of the AMO Plans, Committees, or that the member was in good standing at Government Relations. Each member of have only such rights specifically granted related entities, shall pay, as a minimum, the time he entered the Armed Services, the National Executive Board shall have herein. the dues rate in effect for Group 1 3rd and that he applies for reinstatement one (1) vote. A quorum for meetings of the Assistant/3rd Officer. National Officers within 90 days after his release from active National Executive Board shall be a ARTICLE V and National Executive Board Members duty in the Armed Services. majority of National Executive Board Finances shall pay the dues rate in effect for Group members. Members in good standing of 1 Chief Engineers and Captains. Unless otherwise ordered by a majority this Union are encouraged to attend Section 1. vote of the membership, the National National Executive Board meetings, but (e) The non-sailing dues rate for all Executive Board may designate additional shall have no voice or vote in these (a) Effective January 1, 2015, the annual members/applicants other than those in circumstances during which the time proceedings. dues rate for each rating for the two (2) Group 2 shall be $888.00 per year. The specified in Sections 2 and 3 shall not run. groups specified below shall be as follows: non-sailing dues rate for Group 2 members (b) In addition to the other duties of the shall be $448.00 per year. This dues rate It shall be the right of any member to National President, the National President Group 1 - Deep Sea and Great Lakes will be applicable to all members and present in writing to the National President shall call National Executive Board Areas: applicants who do not sail or receive any question with respect to the Meetings during the year. The time and vacation benefits at any time during the application of this Section 4, and the place of each such meeting shall be - Chief Engineers and Captains calendar year. National Executive Board shall decide determined by the National President. To $1,772.00 such questions unless otherwise ordered avoid expense and delay, the National - 1st Assistant Engineers, Chief Officers (f) In addition to the above, the annual by a majority vote of the membership. Executive Board may be polled on any and Electronic Technicians* $1,672.00 dues rates may be increased effective decision via telephone, e-mail, or other - 2nd Assistant Engineers, 2nd Officers January 1st for the subsequent year by an Section 5. means of communication. Such decision and Radio Officers* $1,580.00 amount not to exceed the equivalent of the shall be reduced to writing and signed by - 3rd Assistant Engineers, 3rd Officers same percentage of the increase in wages This Union shall have the power to impose the Members of the Board. All National and Stewards $1,488.00 and all other benefits negotiated by the fines not to exceed the amount of the Executive Board Members shall have the Union which became effective in the prior Group Initiation Fee of the member for right to have their votes recorded. *Electronic Technicians, Radio Officers, calendar year for a particular group. any violation of membership obligations. and Great Lakes Stewards who do not (c) The National Executive Board shall be achieve 200 days of covered employment The National Executive Board shall have Section 6 . empowered to discuss and prepare reports in a calendar year shall pay the non-sailing the authority in any particular year to and recommendations on any part of this dues rate of $112.00 per quarter and suspend or forgo, in whole or in part, the Any applicant who is in arrears in payment Union’s activities, policies and plans. The $448.00 per year. aforesaid percentage dues increase. Any of initiation fees for a year shall be adoption of any such recommendation by a such action shall not affect the percentage dropped as an applicant unless otherwise majority vote of the National Executive Group 2 - Inland Waters Areas and dues increase in any subsequent year. ordered by the National Executive Board. Board shall make the provisions thereof Others: binding Union policy, unless modified or - Dues Range: $448.00 Annually, $112.00 The National Executive Board, on or Section 7. otherwise altered by a majority vote of the Quarterly, to $1,236.00 Annually, $309.00 before November 1st of each year, shall Membership, provided such policy is not Quarterly determine the amount of dues and Any application for reinstatement shall inconsistent with the provisions of this initiation fee increase, if any, for each have the same status as any application for Constitution. (b) The initiation fee for Group 1 rating in each group to be effective on the original membership. Any application for applicants shall be $5,500.00 and for following January 1st. Any question or reinstatement after a member is expelled (d) Meetings of the National Executive Group 2 applicants $3,500.00 unless dispute concerning the dues rate of a rating shall be approved by a 2/3 vote at Board shall be held in executive session otherwise determined by the National or group shall be resolved by the National regularly scheduled monthly membership when circumstances dictate. Executive Board. If an applicant moves Executive Board, whose decision shall be meeting at Headquarters. from Group 2 to Group 1 the higher final and binding on all members. (e) The National Executive Board has initiation fee shall apply. Applicants who ARTICLE VI established a policy regarding agency fee have not fulfilled their initiation fee (g) All dues shall be paid in advance System of Organization payers. requirements are subject to the initiation quarterly. The Union shall issue an official fee in place, including increases, as noted receipt for all monies received from Section 1. (f) There shall be no loans to Officers, in the AMO National Constitution. members. No member shall be deemed in National Executive Board Members, good standing or shall be entitled to any National Officers, National Executive Agents, Representatives, Employees or benefits of this Union unless the member’s Members of AMO. ✯ 2 February 2018 ______(l) In the event the National President shall be unable to carry out his duties by reason Section 5. ARTICLE VII (d) Unless otherwise provided for in this of incapacity or in the event of a vacancy National Officers, National Constitution, the National President shall in the office of the National President for National Executive Committee Representatives and other Elective designate the number and location of any reason including death, resignation or Positions additional Ports and the jurisdiction, removal, the National Executive (a) There shall be a National Executive status and activities thereof and may close Committee shall, at the time of such Committee consisting of the National Section 1 . such Ports. The National President shall incapacity or vacancy, determine and President, the National Secretary- designate the National Officer or designate by majority vote of the Treasurer and National Executive Vice The National Officers of this Union shall representative in charge of each Port. remaining members of the National President. be elected, except as otherwise provided in Should any new Constitutional Ports be Executive Committee, the successor in this Constitution. These National Officers established between the election of office to the National President from (b) The National Executive Committee shall be those specified in Article VI, National Officers, the National Executive amongst the existing members of the shall meet no less frequently than twice Section 4, and such additional National Board will propose amendments to this National Executive Committee. In the each year at such places as may be Officers as may be designated in the Constitution so that a representative event of a tie, the successor in office to the designated by the National President and National President’s pre-balloting report. complement for any such Port shall be National President shall be the National at such other times as the National elected as members of the Credentials Executive Committee member so President may elect. Section 2. Committee and the Tallying Committee. designated by a majority vote of the The National President may assign or National Executive Board. (c) Each member of the National The following positions in this Union shall reassign any elected official or Section 2. Executive Committee shall be entitled to be voted upon in the manner prescribed by representative to any Port or to other cast one (1) vote in that body. Its decision this Constitution: duties at a wage level determined by the shall be determined by majority vote of National President with the approval of National Secretary-Treasurer those members present. (a) Recording Secretary the National Executive Board. (b) Reading Clerk (a) Duties of the National Secretary- (d) It shall be the duty of the National (c) Committee Members of: (e) The National President shall supervise Treasurer shall include such assistance to Executive Committee to establish and - Trial Committee; the activities of all Ports. In the event of the National President as the President direct the policies, strategies, rules and - Credentials Committee; the incapacity of any elected National may direct and to take charge of the business of this Union which shall advance - Tallying Committee; Officer, National Executive Board correspondence, files and records of this and protect the interests and welfare of this - Financial Committee; member, National Representative or Union, to take charge of its accounting and Union. The adoption of any such action - Negotiating Committee; and Committee member, the National bookkeeping system, to take charge of the shall make the provisions thereof binding - Strike Committee President may designate a replacement to collection, safeguarding and expenditures Union policy, provided such action is not act as such during the period of incapacity. of all Union funds, and provide a monthly inconsistent with the provisions of this Section 3. comprehensive report to the National Constitution unless modified or otherwise (f) At the regular April membership President covering the financial operations altered by a majority vote of the National Additional Committees may be formed meetings of every election year, the of this Union for the previous month and Executive Board. upon the recommendation of the National National President shall submit to the perform such other duties as may be Executive Board unless otherwise provided membership a pre-balloting report. This determined by the National Executive (e) The National Executive Committee by a majority vote of the membership. report shall contain those National Board. shall direct the administration of all Union Committees may also be appointed as Officers specified in this Constitution and affairs, properties, policies and personnel permitted by this Constitution. the number of additional National Officers (b) The National Secretary-Treasurer, with in any and all areas except as otherwise that are to be elected. The National approval of the National President, will specifically provided for in this ARTICLE VIII President shall also, in such report, establish a Petty Cash Fund in each Port Constitution. designate, with the approval of the where the National President deems Duties of National Officers, National Executive Board, a depository to establishment of such a fund to be (f) The National Executive Committee National Representatives and which the ballots are to be mailed or necessary. One (1) official or shall be responsible for overseeing the Committee Members delivered. Unless otherwise ordered by a representative shall be designated as formulation of bargaining demands and majority vote of the membership, the responsible for overseeing maintenance of contract negotiations, provided these Section 1 . report shall be deemed accepted. the Petty Cash Fund records, filing weekly actions are not inconsistent with past financial reports concerning receipts and practice of any respective area or any The National President (g) The National President shall be disbursements and the security of the Petty other provision of this Constitution. Chairman of the National Executive Board Cash Fund. The National Secretary- (a) The National President shall be the and the National Executive Committee. Treasurer shall oversee the reconciliation (g) The National Executive Committee Executive Officer of this Union and shall of the use of the Petty Cash Fund for each shall determine, subject to the provisions represent and act for and on behalf of this (h) The National President shall be location. The Petty Cash Fund will not be of this Constitution, the terms and Union in all matters consistent with this responsible within the specified limits for used for loans or individual expenses. The conditions of affiliation for any group of Constitution. the enforcement of this Constitution, the Petty Cash Fund will be used for office workers desiring affiliation. policies of this Union and all rules and supplies or materials. (b) The National President shall be a rulings adopted by a majority vote of the (h) The National Secretary-Treasurer, or in member ex-officio of all committees. membership, the National Executive Section 3. the National Secretary-Treasurer’s Board and the National Executive absence, an appointee of the National (c) The National President shall be Committee. The National President shall National Executive Vice President and Executive Committee, shall keep accurate responsible for: the organization and strive to enhance the strength, position and National Vice Presidents . minutes of all meetings of the National maintenance of the correspondence, files prestige of this Union. Executive Committee. and records of the Union; setting up, and (a) The National Executive Vice President the maintenance of, proper office and (i) The National President may delegate to shall assist the National President in the (i) The National Executive Committee other Union administrative procedures; a person or persons the execution of such execution of his duties and shall carry may act without holding a formal meeting and the proper collection, safeguard and of the National President’s duties as the out such other duties as may be determined provided all members of the National expenditure of all Union funds, Port or National President may decide, subject to by the National Executive Board. Executive Committee are sent notice of the otherwise. The National President shall be the limitations set forth in this proposed action or actions, and the in charge of, and responsible for, all Union Constitution. (b) National Vice Presidents shall be in decision is reached by a majority vote, property and shall be in charge of National direct charge of the administration of provided sufficient votes are received to Headquarters and Port Offices. The (j) The National President is directed to Union affairs in the Port under their constitute a quorum. National President shall be responsible for take any legal and all measures and jurisdiction as assigned and determined by the issuance of a monthly comprehensive employ such means which the National the National President. They shall also be Section 6. report covering the financial operation of President deems necessary or advisable to responsible for the enforcement and the Union for the previous month. protect the interests and further the welfare execution of this Constitution, the policies Membership Meetings Whenever there are time restrictions or of this Union and its members in all of this Union and the rules adopted by the other considerations affecting Union matters. National Executive Board. All official membership meetings shall be action, the National President shall take held at Headquarters and recorded by appropriate action to ensure observance (k) By virtue of election as National (c) National Officers shall account, minutes. Official minutes shall be thereof. The National President shall, President, the National President is financially, or otherwise, for their distributed to all Port offices of AMO and unless otherwise ordered by a majority designated to serve as a Vice President of activities in any Port Office whenever posted on the AMO Website for inspection vote of the membership, designate the the Seafarers International Union of North demanded by the National President. by members in good standing. When no number and persons who may, in any America, AFL-CIO, and as a delegate to National Vice Presidents and National quorum is present, this shall be noted in a instance, sign checks drawn upon Union the SIUNA Convention. Executive Board members shall prepare report distributed as official minutes. fund and forward to National Headquarters ✯ February 2018 3 weekly financial reports detailing their demands made for records, bills, vouchers (e) The term of any elected Committee the Union and one (1) or more contracted prior weekly income and expenses, and and receipts by the Financial Committee. member shall continue so long as is employers or combination thereof. comply with all other accounting No report shall be considered complete necessary to complete the Committee’s directions issued by the National without an accompanying report and audit function unless terminated sooner by the (c) No member may be a nominee who President. statement by a Certified Public National Executive Committee. has been found guilty of an act or acts Accountant. The National President is detrimental to the Union within five (5) (d) National Vice Presidents, with the charged with the selection of the Certified Section 5. years from the date of such finding as approval of the National President, shall Public Accountant. Any action on the finally determined under this Constitution. designate which members at that Port may Financial Committee report and Vacancies serve as representatives to other recommendations shall be determined by Section 2. organizations, affiliations with which have the National Executive Board. Should a vacancy occur in any elective been properly permitted. office by death, resignation or other cause, No member can accept nomination as a The Financial Committee’s duties shall the National President may designate a candidate or be a candidate for more than (e) The foregoing is in addition to those include not only reviewing and signing off successor, who must otherwise be one (1) office in any AMO election. other duties prescribed elsewhere in this on the cover vouchers, but also the qualified to fill said office, until the next Constitution. documents provided that are specified in election of National Officers. Section 3. this Article VIII, Section 4(b) and by (f) National Representatives shall perform engaging in a review with the Union’s ARTICLE IX All candidates for, and holders of other whatever duties are assigned to them by auditor and comptroller, which review Term of Office; Wages of Elected elective positions not specified in Article the National President or the person should be for a period of up to two (2) days National Officers; XI shall be members in good standing of designated to act in behalf of the National as the Financial Committee deems National Executive Board this Union and meet all other eligibility President. necessary. The Financial Committee shall Members; Employees and Others requirements for office specified in . identify and thoroughly review a Section 1 above. (g) The National President, National representative number of randomly Section 1. Secretary-Treasurer, National Executive selected financial documents in each Section 4. Vice President, Area National Vice category to be audited. Any member of the The term of office for each of the National Presidents and National Executive Board Financial Committee shall have the right All candidates for, and holders of elective Officers and National Executive Board Members for the Deep Sea, Great Lakes to expand the extent of his review beyond offices and positions, whether elected or Members specified in Article XI and such and Inland Waters areas shall be the random sampling selected by the appointed in accordance with this additional National Officers and National considered elected as delegates to the Committee as a group. More than one (1) Constitution, shall maintain their Executive Board Members included in the SIUNA Convention by virtue of their member of the Committee need not review membership in good standing at all times. National President’s pre-balloting report election as officers of AMO with full any given document unless there appears Failure to do so shall result in ineligibility shall be four (4) years. voting rights in accord with the SIUNA to be a problem with a document. to be a candidate for or to hold such office Constitution. Additionally, an independent auditor or position, and shall constitute a vacancy Section 2. should either be on site or available by in such office or position. Section 4. telephone to provide interpretation and The compensation to be paid the holder of guidance to all members of the Committee any office, or other elective position, for ARTICLE XI Committees while they are conducting their review. which a Union-wide vote is held, shall be Election of National Officers and determined, from time to time, by the National Executive Board (a) Trial Committee (c) Negotiating and Strike Committees National Executive Board. Members: National President, National Secretary-Treasurer, A Trial Committee shall conduct trials of When the National Executive Committee Section 3. persons charged, and shall submit findings determines that a Negotiating Committee National Executive Vice President, and recommendations as prescribed in this is necessary, one (1) shall be elected in National Vice Presidents All other classifications of employees Constitution. It shall be the special accordance with Article XII, Section 3. shall be hired, discharged and obligation of the Trial Committee to Section 1. compensated at the discretion of the observe all the requirements of this The Negotiating Committee shall National President. Constitution with regard to charges and represent the Union in all negotiations for (a) Notice of Nomination and Election. trials. The Trial Committee’s findings and contracts and changes in contracts. Notice to the membership for nomination Section 4. recommendations must specifically state and election to any AMO office or position whether or not the rights of the accused, A Port may establish a similar Committee shall be given in accordance with Unless modified by a majority vote of the under this Constitution, were properly for itself, provided permission by the applicable law and regulations. Union Membership, the National safeguarded. A Trial Committee shall be National Executive Committee has been President, with approval of the National elected in accordance with Article XII, obtained. The Port Negotiating Committee (b) Nominations. Executive Board, may contract for, or Section 2 of this Constitution. shall submit a report and retain, the services of any person, firm or recommendations upon completion of the Any member may submit the member’s corporation, not employees of this Union, (b) Financial Committee negotiations. In such event, the Port own name or the name of any other when it is deemed in the best interest of Negotiating Committee shall forward its member for nomination for any office this Union. The Financial Committee shall meet at report and recommendations, together including National President, National National Headquarters and: conduct a with comments by the National Vice Secretary-Treasurer, National Executive semi-annual (26 week) audit of the President, or the National Officer officially ARTICLE X Vice President and National Vice President finances of National Headquarters and in charge designated by the National Qualifications for National Offices by delivering in person or by registered each Port, which audit shall include the President to the National President who mail or U.S. Postal Service Express Mail examination of regular weekly financial shall then cause the report and Section 1. or its non-fax private courier equivalent a reports of the National President, National recommendations to be submitted to the letter addressed to the Credentials Secretary-Treasurer, National Executive National Executive Committee, together Eligibility requirements for all elective Committee in care of the National Vice President, National Vice Presidents with any report and recommendations National Offices of this Union shall be as President at the address of National any other National Officers as well as the which the National President deems follows: Headquarters. The letter shall contain only National Secretary-Treasurer’s monthly desirable to make. In no event shall a the information required by this Section. comprehensive report for the semi-annual Negotiating Committee obligate this (a) The nominee must be a member for Any other documentation or material not period under review; note discrepancies Union or any Port without the prior two (2) years prior to the date of the required by this Section included with this where they exist; and report on their approval of the National Executive Board. commencement of the nomination period letter shall be returned to the member by findings and make recommendations. and must be a member in good standing of the Credentials Committee. The National Members of this Committee may make The National Executive Committee shall this Union at the time of nomination, and President or his designee is charged with dissenting reports, separate decide when any strike shall begin and at the time of election; and the safekeeping of these letters and shall recommendations and separate findings. end. A three (3) person Strike Committee turn them over to the Credentials The report and recommendations of this designated by the National President shall (b) The nominee must have either 180 Committee. Committee shall be completed within a be charged with the preparation, execution days of employment, including days of reasonable time after the election of its and termination of a strike plan binding on vacation, with companies party to a The letter shall be dated and shall contain members and shall be submitted to the all members and other persons affiliated collective bargaining agreement with this the following: National President, who shall cause the with this Union, when approved by the Union, during each of any two (2) full report and recommendations to be read at National Executive Committee. calendar years of the three (3) full calendar (1) The full name of the nominee, and, if the following month’s regular membership years immediately preceding the election the nominee wishes, any special name to meetings. (d) All Committees set forth in this Section year or equal time served as a full time and appear on the ballot; 4 shall carry out such other duties as the paid elected official of this Union or full National Officers and National National Executive Committee may direct. time employee of any Plan, Committee or (2) The nominee’s home address and Representatives shall comply with all similar entity created by agreement with mailing address; ✯ 4 February 2018 (e) Notice as to the time for nominations with an official number assigned to each (3) The nominee’s book number; for candidates for each election shall be (e) A majority vote of the membership at member. Lists of the names of the sent to the last known address of each this meeting shall, in the case of such membership, together with the (4) The title of the office or other position member no later than 15 days nor more appeals, be sufficient to overrule any corresponding official numbers, shall be for which the member is a candidate; than 30 days prior to the commencement disqualification by the Credentials made available to the Tallying Committee of nominations. Committee, in which event the individual for the purpose of checking, at the time of (5) Proof of employment required for so previously disqualified shall then be the count, the voting eligibility of candidates shall be as specified in Article Section 2. deemed qualified. Unless so overruled, the members whose ballots have been X, Sections 1 and 3. Proof of employment Committee’s report shall obtain. received. The official numbers shall be shall be demonstrated by submission of Credentials Committee consecutive, commencing with Number 1. signed letters from AMO contracted (f) Each member of the Committee shall A sufficient amount of envelopes and employers, AMO or the AMO Plans, (a) A Credentials Committee consisting of be paid the rate of $300.00 per day and ballots shall be printed and distributed. A originals or copies of certificates of five (5) members and two (2) alternates, reimbursed for legitimate out-of-pocket record of the ballots, by amount, shall be discharge or pay vouchers from AMO members in good standing, who are in expenses. maintained by the National President. contracted vessels, or signed vouchers attendance shall be elected at the regular from the AMO Vacation Plan. June membership meeting. (g) If the Credentials Committee finds (c) Such outer envelope shall be addressed there is only one (1) person qualified for to the Depository designated by the (6) Annexing a certificate in the following No National Officer or candidate for office any elective office or position, that person National President pursuant to Article form, signed and dated by the proposed or position shall be eligible for election to shall be declared to have been elected VIII, Section l. (f) of the Constitution to nominee: this Committee. The Committee decisions without the necessity of an election. ensure the secrecy of the ballot and shall shall be by majority vote with any tie vote be held in safekeeping by the Depository, “I hereby certify that I am not now, nor being resolved by a majority of the (h) Unless otherwise provided for a which shall be in the same County where have I been for the five (5) years last past, membership at special meetings called for specific office, in the event the Credentials National Headquarters is located. The convicted of, or served any part of a prison this purpose at the National Headquarters Committee determines there is not a Depository shall be secured and paid for term resulting from conviction of robbery, Committee Members shall elect a qualified candidate for an office or by the Union. During the balloting period, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand Chairman. position, the National Executive Board the Depository shall only provide access to larceny, burglary, arson, violation of shall designate a member in good standing the designated independent mailing and narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with (b) After its election, the Committee shall to fill the office or position until the next balloting service. At the conclusion of the intent to kill, assault which inflicts assemble at National Headquarters as soon general election. Upon such designation balloting period, the depository shall only grievous bodily injury, or violation of as practicable and shall receive all being accepted, the provisions of Article provide access to the designated Titles II or III of the Landrum-Griffin Act, nomination letters in the care of the XI, Section 2(g) shall govern the selection independent mailing and balloting service or conspiracy to commit any such crime. National President or his designee. It shall of the designee. and elected Tallying Committee. The determine whether the person has outer envelope shall have a return address “However, with respect to any of the submitted his nomination correctly and Section 3. to a post office box in the same county in crimes specified below wherein a possesses the necessary qualifications. The the state where National Headquarters is conviction occurred on or after October Committee shall prepare a report listing Balloting Procedure located. In addition, only the independent 12, 1984 or wherein an appeal was each nominee and his book number under mailing and balloting service shall have pending from such conviction on or after the office or position he is seeking. Each (a) (i) The National President, subject to access to the designated post office box that date I hereby certify that I have not nominee shall be marked “qualified” or the approval of the National Executive selected by the National President. The been convicted of or served any part of a “disqualified,” according to the findings of Board shall, not later than June 1st of each independent mailing and balloting service prison term resulting from conviction of the Committee. Where a nominee has been election year, designate an independent shall take ballots returned to the post office robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, marked “disqualified,” the reason must be mailing and balloting service to administer box as undeliverable to National grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of stated in the report. The report shall be the election. The duties of such Headquarters and oversee the remailing of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with signed by all the Committee members and independent mailing and balloting service the return envelope, affixing the most intent to kill, assault which inflicts be completed and submitted to National shall include supervising the printing and recent address for the member whose grievous bodily injury or violation of Headquarters in time for the next regular mailing of the ballots, ensuring the secrecy original ballot envelope was returned to subchapter III or IV of Chapter 11 of Title membership meetings after their election. of and inaccessibility to the Depository the designated post office box. 29 U.S.C. or any felony involving abuse or At the meetings, the report shall be read during the election, mailing of duplicate misuse of such person’s position or and incorporated in the minutes. ballots and receipt of written requests from (d) The ballots shall be secret and must be employment in a labor organization or members, supervising the ballot collection cast by mail. Ballots which contain the employee benefit plan to seek or obtain an (c) When a nominee has been disqualified and tallying procedure with the Tallying signature of any voter or other illegal gain at the expense of the members by the Committee, the nominee shall be Committee and to take such other distinguishing marks shall be void. of the labor organization or the notified immediately by certified mail, measures as the independent mailing and beneficiaries of the employee benefit plan U.S. Postal Service Express Mail or its balloting service may deem necessary to (e) Ballots shall be sent to the member’s or conspiracy to commit any such crimes non-fax private courier equivalent or ensure a fair and impartial election. In last known residence or last known or attempt to commit any such crimes, or a e-mail to the nominee’s listed home and the event the independent mailing and mailing address, as indicated in the records crime in which any of the foregoing crimes mailing address. The nominee shall also be balloting service is unable to fulfill its at National Headquarters. Members will is an element; for a period of 13 sent a letter containing the reasons for such duties as determined by the National have the opportunity to request their consecutive years last past, or, if so, I have disqualification by certified mail to the Executive Board, the National President ballots be sent to them aboard their received legal permission from the nominee’s home address and mailing shall replace the independent mailing and vessels. appropriate governmental agency address. A disqualified nominee shall have balloting service with another such excusing me from compliance with this the right to take an appeal to the service. (f) A member shall be entitled to write to prohibition. Proof of any such legal membership from the decision of the the independent mailing and balloting permission is attached to this Committee. Such appeal must be in (a) (ii) The National President shall ensure service, c/o National Headquarters, for a certification.” writing and must be forwarded to National the proper and timely preparation of duplicate Ballot and receive same by mail Headquarters not later than 14 days after ballots by the independent mailing and provided he states in his letter that he has (c) The nominating letter must reach the date of the mailing of the notice of balloting service. The ballots so prepared not received his ballot or that his ballot has National Headquarters no earlier than the disqualification. In all events, the shall be the only official ballots. The been lost or mutilated so that it can not be commencement of the May National postmark date or date on the certified mail, ballots may contain general information used. All duplicate ballots shall be marked Headquarters regular membership meeting U.S. Postal Service Express Mail or its and instructive comments, not inconsistent either by color or serial number to identify and no later than the commencement of the non-fax private courier equivalent or with the provision of this Constitution. All them as such. Duplicate ballots shall be June National Headquarters membership e-mail shall govern. In any event, without qualified candidates shall be listed counted unless the original and duplicate meeting of the election year. prejudice to his written appeal, the alphabetically within each category. No ballots mailed to the member are both cast, disqualified nominee may appear in write-in votes shall be permitted. All in which event neither shall be counted. (d) In the case of any regular election for person before the Committee within two qualified nominees shall be entitled to Each duplicate sent by the independent any office of this Union any member has (2) days after the date on which the timely notice of the date, time, and mailing and balloting service shall be the right to nominate himself or any other certified mail, U.S. Postal Service Express location of the preparation of ballots. recorded on a list maintained by the member provided that where a member Mail or its non-fax private courier Individuals must be members in good independent mailing and balloting service. has been nominated by another member equivalent or e-mail is sent, to correct his standing of this union to observe the The list shall be included in the election the nominee must, within two (2) weeks application or argue for his qualification. preparation of ballots. records, which are to be preserved in after receipt of notification that the accordance with Article XI, Section 4(j). member has been nominated, submit the (d) The Committee’s report shall be (b) The ballot shall be enclosed in an required letter of acceptance in the same prepared early enough to allow the envelope which shall have on its face the (g) All members shall be mailed ballots on form and containing the same information disqualified nominee to appear before it word “Ballot.” This envelope, with ballot August 1st of the election year, unless as required in the case where a member and still reach National Headquarters in enclosed, shall be enclosed in an outer August 1st falls on a Saturday or Sunday, has nominated himself. time for the next regular membership envelope, which shall have on its face an then the ballots will be mailed on the meeting. official number which shall correspond previous Friday; the ballots are to be ✯ February 2018 5 returned as provided in subparagraph (h) envelopes with the rosters and verification charge designated by the National election procedures of this Union. The herein. In order for the member’s ballot to lists of membership. The report shall President until the independent mailing National President is specifically charged be counted, the member must be in good clearly detail all discrepancies discovered and balloting service and Tallying with the post-election preservation and standing for the quarter in which the ballot and shall contain recommendations for the Committee have completed their work. retention of all election records, including cast is to be counted, with such standing treatment of these discrepancies. The the ballots, as required by law. established not later than November 30th independent mailing and balloting service The meeting shall be officially reconvened of the election year. and all members of the Committee shall in order to receive the preliminary report Section 5. sign the report, without prejudice however including the tally of the independent (h) Voting shall thereupon commence and to the right of any Committee member to mailing and balloting service and Tallying Installation into Office continue through December 1st inclusive. submit a dissenting report as to the Committee. A majority of the membership, If December 1st falls on a holiday, or a accuracy of the count and the validity of at that meeting, may order a recheck and (a) The candidate elected shall be that Sunday, balloting shall end on the next the ballots, with pertinent details. recount where a dissenting report has been person receiving the highest number of succeeding business day. Ballots received Only members in good standing shall be issued by one (1) or more members of the votes cast for the particular office or after December 1st or the next succeeding entitled to be present as observers at the Tallying Committee. position. Where more than one (1) business day shall be disqualified. tallying of the ballots. candidate is to be elected for a particular Members who become in good standing (f) The candidate or candidates receiving office or position, the proper number of after September 1st but on or before (c) The independent mailing and balloting the highest vote shall be deemed elected. candidates receiving the successively November 15th shall be mailed a ballot, service and the Tallying Committee are In the event of a tie vote for office, the highest number of votes shall be declared which must be received by mail on or also charged with the receipt and National President shall, within 10 days, elected. It shall be the duty of the National before December 1st or the next evaluation of written protests by any direct a runoff election among the President to advise each candidate which succeeding business day, if December 1st member who claims an improper denial of candidates receiving the tie vote; the candidate or candidates were elected is a Sunday or Holiday, in order to be the right to vote. If they find the protests runoff election shall be a mail ballot within seven (7) days of receipt of the final counted. invalid, they shall dismiss the protests and referendum conducted for a 90-day period report of the Tallying Committee and the so inform the protesting member, by in accordance with the provisions of this independent mailing and balloting service. (i) Elections shall be held at regular four e-mail or overnight mail on the day of Article. (4) year intervals for National Officers. dismissal. (b) The duly elected National President, Elected National Officers are to be (g) Any challenge to the conduct of the National Secretary-Treasurer, National installed in office as of midnight If they find the protests valid, and the vote election of National Officers (other than Executive Vice President, and National December 31. or votes can affect the outcome of the appeals by disqualified nominees for Vice Presidents, elected shall take their election, the independent mailing and candidacy governed by Section 2 of this respective positions and assume the duties Section 4. balloting service and the Committee shall Article) shall be made not later than 20 thereof at midnight December 31st. At that order a special election for the office so days from the date of the preliminary time, the terms of their predecessors shall Ballot Collection, Tallying Procedure, affected on such terms as are practical. If report and tally of the Tallying Committee. expire. This shall not apply where the Protests and Special Votes the Tallying Committee and independent Such challenge must be in writing and successful candidate for National mailing and balloting service order a signed by the complaining member or President cannot assume his office because (a) A Tallying Committee consisting of special election, on finding one (1) or members and shall be sent by certified or he is at sea, in which event the provisions five (5) members and two (2) alternates, in more protests valid, such order shall be registered mail to the National Executive of Article VIII, Section 1(l) dealing with good standing, shall be elected from those subject to approval or disapproval by a Board, in care of the National President. succession shall apply until such office is in attendance at special meeting called by majority of the membership at the next The National Executive Board shall hold assumed. the National President or the National regularly scheduled membership meeting hearings and shall make its decision on Officer officially in charge designated by at Headquarters. The report of the such challenge within 30 days after the (c) Before assuming office, all elected the National President, at Headquarters on independent mailing and balloting service conclusion of the hearings and in any Officials, shall take the following oath: the Monday morning in the week and the Committee shall include a brief event not less than 60 days after receipt of preceding the week of the regular summary of each protest received, the the challenge. If a recount is held pursuant “I...... , do hereby sincerely pledge my December meetings for the express name and book number of the protesting to subparagraph (e) of this Section and a honor to perform the duties of my office as purpose of electing a Tallying Committee. member, and a summary of the protest’s challenge to the conduct of the original described by the Constitution, and to Five (5) members and two (2) alternate disposition. count shall have been made prior to the uphold this Constitution to the best of my shall be elected at Headquarters. No decision to hold such recount, the ability. I will deliver to my successor in National Officer or candidate for office or (d) The independent mailing and balloting challenge shall be deemed null and void. office all books, papers and other property position shall be eligible for election to service and the Tallying Committee shall After the recount, if any, the complaining including all computer files, hardware and this Committee. The Committee Members commence proceedings on the same day as member or members may renew such software of this Union that may be in my shall elect a Chairman and Secretary. the ballots are collected and shall complete challenge in accordance with subsection possession at the close of my official term. the proceedings as soon as possible. The (g) of this Article. Further, I do solemnly swear (or affirm) The elected Tallying Committee shall, independent mailing and balloting service that I am not a member of any organization with the independent mailing and balloting and the Tallying Committee may, at their (h) The decision of the National Executive which advocates the overthrow of the service, proceed to the Depository in the sole discretion, retire for the evening even Board may be appealed by the Government of the United States by force, Port of Dania Beach, Florida with an though their task has not been completed complaining member or members, in violence or other subversive or empty ballot box prior to the closing of the and shall return to a sealed box all ballots person or in writing, to the membership at unconstitutional methods, and during my bank on the day of the regular December and envelopes and ensure the custody and the first regular membership meetings term of office, I will not knowingly aid or meeting. security of the ballots and envelopes until which next follow the receipt by the support the activities of any such party or the resumption of their duties by the National President of written notice of organization. The independent mailing and balloting committee the following day no later than appeal. The written notice of appeal must service and the Tallying Committee shall 9:00 A.M. be received within 20 days after the date of “All this I solemnly promise with the full remove all the ballots from the Depository, mailing or notification of the decision of knowledge that to violate this pledge is to count the ballot envelopes and place them Each member of the Committee shall be the National Executive Board to the stamp me as a person devoid of principle in the empty ballot box in the presence of paid the rate of $300.00 per day, as challenging member. If the notice of and destitute of honor.” any member in good standing who may be determined by the National Executive appeal is received by the National observing. Board, and reimbursed for legitimate out President less than five (5) business days Section 6. of pocket expenses. before the first such regular membership The independent mailing and balloting meetings, then the appeal shall be Incumbent officials of the Union shall service and the Tallying Committee shall The proceedings of the independent presented to the next regularly scheduled continue to hold office until successors are then seal this box and return it to National mailing and balloting service and the membership meetings. A majority of the elected, qualified and installed. Headquarters, where it shall remain sealed Committee, except for the actual members voting at such meetings shall and in the custody of the independent preparation of the report and dissents, if control. The action of the National Section 7. mailing and balloting service and Tallying any, shall be open for observation to any Executive Board and the membership on Committee until such time as the ballot member in good standing. any such appeal shall be final. Vacancies Occurring Between Credentials box is opened and the ballots are checked Committee Report and Start of Election and counted. The independent mailing and balloting (i) The final report by the independent service and the Tallying Committee shall mailing and balloting service, the Tallying (a) In the event a candidate for contested (b) The independent mailing and balloting file a tally of the Ballots cast within 24 Committee and the National President, office who has been found “qualified” by service and the Tallying Committee are hours after the completion of the ballot under this Article, shall be entered in the the Credentials Committee dies, or charged with the tally of all the ballots and count. minutes of the next membership meeting. becomes permanently incapacitated or preparation of a report setting forth in becomes disqualified following issuance complete detail the results of the election, (e) The December regular membership (j) The National President is directed and of the Credentials Committee Report and including a complete accounting of all meeting at Headquarters in the election authorized to issue other directions as to prior to commencement of balloting, the ballots and ballot envelopes, and year shall be held in recess by the National the election procedures as are required by commencement of balloting for National reconciliation of the ballots and ballot President or National Officer officially in law. These directives shall be part of the Officers and National Executive Board ✯ 6 February 2018 members shall be postponed to October shall be elected at the National ARTICLE XIII counsel, an opportunity to present 20th of the Election Year to allow Headquarters meeting at the second Code of Trial by Charges evidence or argument as to the guilt or additional nominations with notice to all regular membership meeting held after the innocence of the accused, as set forth in members by mail at their last known close of the six (6) months and year end of Section 1. the charges and specifications. address for the contested office(s) in which the Union’s fiscal year for which the a death or permanent disability or Committee is to make the required audit. If All violations of this Constitution, laws, (f) The accused and the accusers shall have disqualification has occurred and all other no quorum is present on that date, a special rules, regulations or Shipping Rules of this the benefit of counsel if they desire, contested offices. Additional nominations meeting shall be called within one (1) Union shall be tried by this Union and if provided said counsel shall be a member in of National Officers as ordered by the week for the sole purpose of electing a charges are proven, the penalties imposed good standing of this Union. National Executive Board shall occur in Financial Committee. No member shall be shall be enforced by this Union. September of the Election Year. The elected unless in attendance at the (g) The Trial Committee shall within 30 previously elected Credentials Committee meeting. No National Officer or employee Section 2. days of the close of the hearing issue its shall reconvene in early October and issue may be elected to serve on the Financial decision as to the guilt or innocence of the a supplementary Report in time for the Committee. When a member of this Union is accused accused and the penalty, if any, to be October Membership meeting. The of an offense which, if proven, would imposed. election of all contested Offices shall be Section 2. subject him to a penalty, the proceedings conducted from October 20th when ballots shall be conducted in accordance with the (h) The Decision and Recommendation of are mailed to December 21st inclusive. If Trial Committee following rules: the Trial Committee shall be submitted to either date falls on a holiday or Sunday, the membership at the next regularly balloting shall commence or end, as the A Trial Committee shall be elected at a (a) The accusation shall be made in scheduled monthly membership meeting case may be, on the next succeeding regular membership meeting at National writing, and it shall state the charges and at Headquarters. The record, including the business day. Ballots received after Headquarters where the trial will take the specifications upon which these transcript, if any, shall also be transmitted December 21st shall be disqualified. The place. It shall consist of five (5) members charges are based. The accusation shall by the Trial Committee. The members of Tallying Committee shall be elected as in good standing, of which three (3) shall also specify the time and place of the the Union present at the meeting, shall provided in Article X, Section 4 (a) of the constitute a quorum. No National Officer alleged offense as nearly as can be decide by vote upon the guilt or innocence Constitution and proceed to collect the or employee may be elected to serve on a determined. Once the charges and of the accused, a two-thirds vote of the ballots at the Depository in Broward Trial Committee. No member who intends specifications are received at National members voting being necessary to County, Florida in the morning on the next to be a witness in the pending trial may Headquarters, the National Secretary- convict; such vote shall be taken on each business day after the close of the balloting serve, nor may any member who cannot, Treasurer shall notify the accused of the separate specification. If convicted, the period. The Tallying Committee shall pick for any reason, render an impartial charges and specifications. At the members of this Union shall then by a two- up the ballots and tally same as specified decision. It shall be the duty of every discretion of the National President, and thirds vote declare a degree of punishment. in Article X, Section 4 and issue its report, member to decline nomination if he depending upon the gravity of the alleged along with a dissenting report, if any, to knows, or has reason to believe, any of the offense, the accused shall be given the (i) The Committee shall have power to special membership meetings called solely foregoing disqualifications apply to him. opportunity to sign a Waiver of Charges in summon and interview persons and for this purpose prior to December 31st of The members of this Committee shall be lieu of trial within 30 days of notification summon papers on behalf of the parties the Election Year at Headquarters. elected under such generally applicable and accept the penalty proposed in the and to procure from the National rules as are adopted by a majority vote of waiver. The Waiver of Charges shall be Secretary-Treasurer such summons in a (b) If a vacancy shall occur amongst the the membership. No member shall be so provided by a member of the National form as may be necessary for that purpose, candidates for a contested National Office elected unless in attendance at the Executive Board as directed by the and may adjourn the hearing from time to caused by death, permanent incapacity or meeting. National President. If the accused does time at its discretion. other disqualification of a candidate not sign the Waiver of Charges, the subsequent to 12:01 a.m. on the date the Section 3. charges and specifications shall be (j) In the event a National Officer of the balloting period commences and prior to processed in accordance with this Article. Union is accused by a member, orally or in 12:00 midnight on the date the balloting Negotiating Committee writing, of any misconduct or nonfeasance period ends in the Union’s Election year, (b) The charges and specifications shall be in office, said National Officer shall have such vacancy shall not be filled and the (a) The members of the Negotiating presented at successive regular monthly the right, at his option, to file charges votes cast for such deceased, incapacitated Committee shall be elected by a majority membership meeting at Headquarters, against such member with the National or otherwise disqualified candidate shall vote of the membership in that fleet for the signed by two (2) or more members in Executive Board. Upon the filing of be counted by the Tallying Committee. If contract being negotiated. good standing and, if accepted by a charges, all proceedings to be followed such candidate shall have received the Notwithstanding anything to the contrary majority vote of the attending members, shall be the same as in the case of charges highest number of the votes cast, a in this Constitution, the National the National Secretary-Treasurer shall filed against an elected official under vacancy shall exist in that office and shall Executive Board may be constituted as the notify the accused member immediately Article XXIII hereof, and any penalty, if be filled in the manner provided in this Negotiating Committee. that charges have been preferred against imposed, shall be in accordance with Constitution for vacancies in office the member and shall serve or cause to be Article XIV hereof. occurring by reason of death after election (b) In the event there is a need for a Strike served upon the accused by mail, directed and assumption of the National Office as Committee, the National Executive Board to the accused’s last known address with ARTICLE XIV provided in Section 1 and Section 5 of will act as the Strike Committee. The the postage prepaid, a copy of the charges Penalties Article VIII of this Constitution by the National President shall act as Chairman and specifications, together with a notice National Executive Board with the and may designate a working committee of directing the accused to be present at a Section 1. designated successor taking office on the not less than two (2) National Executive meeting of the Trial Committee. The date the vacancy is deemed to exist. Board members and two (2) rank and file notice shall specify the date and time of Any member found guilty in accordance members, all of whom shall report to the the hearing before the Trial Committee with the procedures of this Constitution (c) In the event a candidate for Elective full National Executive Board as needed. which shall take place at National shall be subject to the degree of Office, who has either been declared Headquarters not less than 30 days from punishment as follows: elected by the Credentials Committee Section 4. the date the notice is mailed. For good pursuant to Article XI, Section 2(g) of the cause, the Trial Committee may extend the (a) Public reprimand. American Maritime Officers National Unless otherwise specified herein, all time at which the hearing will take place. Constitution or who has received the Committees shall be elected when and as In the event the accused does not attend (b) Fined for each proven offense. highest number of votes cast as reported required. the hearing, the Trial Committee may by the Tallying Committee and proceed in his absence. (c) Fined for each proven repetition of Section 5. independent mailing and balloting service offense. dies, is permanently incapacitated or (c) No other persons other than the otherwise disqualified before being Reading Clerk and Recording Secretary accused, accusers and their counsel shall (d) Suspended pending reinstatement. installed in Office, the Office shall be be present at the trial without the consent deemed vacant and filled in accordance At each official regular or special of the Trial Committee. The Trial (e) Suspended for a stated period. with this National Constitution. membership meeting held at Committee shall be entitled to have legal Headquarters, the membership shall by counsel present. (f) Suspended pending payment of dues, ARTICLE XII majority vote elect a Reading Clerk and a fines or assessments. Other Elections Recording Secretary, who shall serve in (d) Each witness shall be examined such capacity for that meeting only. separately and apart if desired by the (g) Dropped from the roll of membership. Section 1. ______accused or accuser and all testimony shall (h) Dropped from the roll of membership be transcribed. The cost of the copies of with fine or fines charged to his account. Financial Committee the transcript shall be borne by the Union. ______

The Financial Committee shall consist of (e) At the hearing, the Trial Committee three (3) members in good standing who shall give the accused, the accuser, or their ✯ February 2018 7 Section 2 . in force and effect. It is expressly provided shall be issued by the National Executive Section 4. that the amount and content of the bond Board. Shipping Rules shall be Union In no case shall the fine for each proven and the National Officers to be covered policy. Order of Business charge exceed the amount of the guilty thereunder shall, at all times, be consistent member’s Group initiation fee in effect at and in compliance with provisions of any Section 2. 1. Call to Order the time the Membership determines the applicable law. penalty or shall the term of suspension The National Executive Board may make 2. Election of Recording Secretary and exceed two (2) years; suspended members ARTICLE XVII special exceptions or rules for any Reading Clerk who are not reinstated at the expiration of Expenditures company or vessel for organizational such period shall then be dropped from the purposes. 3. Obligations roll of membership. In cases where Section 1. members are fined, they may be suspended ARTICLE XX 4. Reading of the Minutes of previous pending payment, or they may be given 60 Policies or specific instructions with Quorums meetings days before such suspension is enforced. regard to expenditures to be made or expenses to be incurred shall be Section 1 . 5. Communications and action taken Section 3. determined by the National President in accordance with this Constitution. The quorum for a regular or a special 6. Resolutions and action taken Members are not required to pay dues meeting at Headquarters shall be five (5) during the period of disciplinary Section 2. members. 7. Shipping and Registration Report suspension. If members are dropped from membership for any reason, and such As determined by the National President, Section 2. 8. Ships’ Activity Report persons desire reinstatement, they must monies may be appropriated from the pay all their indebtedness to this Union treasury of the Union for political purposes The quorum for a National Executive 9. Report on Applications for and make application for reinstatement. which are permitted by law. Board or a National Executive Committee Membership meeting shall be a majority of its ARTICLE XV ARTICLE XVIII members. 10. National Secretary-Treasurer’s Publications Income financial report. Section 1. Section 3. Section 1. 11. Election of the Financial Committee or The income of this Union shall include The quorum for any committee meeting Financial Committee Report The Union may publish such pamphlets, receipts from dues, initiation fees, shall be the majority of the elected or journals, newspapers, magazines, assessments, contributions, loans, interest, appointed members in good standing. 12. Charges and Election of Trial periodicals and general literature in such dividends, as well as income derived from Committee, and other special manner as may be determined by the any other legitimate source. Section 4. Committees National Executive Board. Section 2. The decisions, reports, recommendations 13. Report of National Executive Vice Section 2. or other functions of any segment of the President and National Officers No member shall be required or permitted Union requiring a quorum to act officially (a) The AMO and its National Officers, to pay or deliver any sum of money to any shall be that of the majority of the quorum 14. National President’s Verbal Report shall not print, publish or distribute any Union representative without obtaining a present at the officially called or required mailing list of its members and shall not temporary receipt, signed and dated by an meeting and shall not be official or 15. Unfinished Business give, sell or otherwise provide any names authorized Union official. It is the duty of effective unless the quorum requirements and addresses of its members to anyone the member to demand such temporary are met. 16. New Business except for the independent mailing receipt in lieu of an official Union receipt service, Pension, Medical, Safety & to be issued to the member by ARTICLE XXI 17. Good and Welfare Education, Vacation Plan and other Plan Headquarters at a later date. Meetings purposes. 18. Adjournment Section 3. Section 1. (b) The AMO, its National Officers shall Section 5. not use the name of AMO as authorizing No assessment shall be levied except after Headquarters shall hold regular monthly Rules of Order the publication of any book, pamphlet, a vote of the members in good standing membership meeting, provided a quorum circular or other printed matter, containing conducted under such rules as may be is present, during the week following the any advertisement whatever, nor shall determined by the National Executive first Sunday of every month. This 1. No motion shall be placed before the AMO authorize any person or persons to Board, subject to these conditions: membership meeting shall be held on meeting unless moved and seconded, or be do so, unless approved by the AMO Monday at Headquarters. This meeting open for discussion until stated by the National Executive Committee. (1) The ballot must be secret; shall commence at 1:00 P.M., local time. Chair. When a motion is before the In the event a quorum is not present at 1:00 meeting, the only superseding motions in ARTICLE XVI (2) The assessment must be approved by a P.M., the National President or the order are as follows: Bonds majority of the valid ballots cast; National Officer officially in charge designated by the National President shall a. To adjourn; National Officers, whether elected or (3) Reasonable notice of the intention to postpone the opening of the meeting until appointed, as well as all other employees vote upon such proposed assessment at a quorum is present, but in no event later b. The previous question; of this Union, shall be required to be Membership meeting shall be given prior than 1:30 P.M., local time. bonded under such terms and conditions as to the Membership meeting. c. To postpone indefinitely; may be determined, from time to time, by Section 2. the National Executive Committee, Section 4. d. To postpone to a specific time; provided however, that elected National Special meetings can be held at Officers whose responsibility it is to All payments by a member or applicant of Headquarters or any Port and called only e. To recommit and refer; handle the liquid funds of this Union, or this Union shall be applied to the monetary by the National President or as directed by who are empowered to convert securities obligations owed to this Union by the the National President. f. To amend; in their possession into cash, shall each be member or applicant, commencing with required to furnish a bond at the expense the oldest as measured from the date of Section 3. g. To substitute; and they shall take of the Union in an amount required by law accrual of such obligation. The period of precedence in the order named, the but not less than $25,000.00; such bond is arrearage shall be calculated accordingly. Meeting Chairman first three (3) to be decided without to be executed by a reliable surety All payments to this Union not made in debate. company and approved by the National person, shall be forwarded to the National (a) The Chairman of each meeting at President. The bond, when furnished, shall Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters. Headquarters or any Port, shall be the 2. If two (2) or more members rise to speak be placed in the custody of the National National President or a National Officer at the same time, the Chair shall decide President, who shall in turn be responsible ARTICLE XIX designated by the National President. The who is entitled to the floor. No member shall speak longer than five (5) minutes, or for ascertaining that such bond is kept in Formulation of Shipping Rules Chairman shall keep order under rules of force throughout the term of office of such order specified in this Constitution. more than once upon the same subject or question until all who desire have spoken, elected National Officers. No elected Section 1 . National Officer who is charged with the (b) The Meeting Chairman may cast a vote or more than twice without permission of the meeting. responsibility of handling funds and assets Shipping Rules, containing the details for only in the event of a tie. of the Union may assume office or remain registration and assignment of jobs and ______in such office unless a satisfactory bond is 3. No motion shall be entertained while a rules governing conduct and procedure member has the floor, and members ✯ 8 February 2018 making or seconding motions shall rise the term “majority vote of the Section 10. ARTICLE XXIII and address the Chair. membership” shall mean the majority of Impeachment and Removal from all the valid votes cast by members in good Member in Good Standing Office of Elected National Officers 4. No member shall be interrupted while standing at an official meeting at and National Executive Board speaking, except for a point of order. Headquarters. The term “member in good standing” Members means a member whose dues are paid 5. If a member, while speaking, is called to through the current quarter and who is not Section 1. order, he shall, at the request of the Chair, Section 4. under suspension or sentence of expulsion take his seat until the question is decided; as provided by this Constitution. Charges and Answer then, if in order, he may proceed. (a) Majority Vote of the National Executive Board Section 11. Charges of misdemeanors in office, 6. Unless an appeal is taken, the decision malfeasance, misfeasance, nonfeasance, of the Chair shall be final upon all points When applicable to the National Executive Membership Book and Permit Number corruption, favoritism, extortion, of order. A majority of all members present Board, “majority vote” or “majority vote oppression in office, gross misconduct, and entitled to vote shall be necessary to of the National Executive Board” shall (a) The term “membership book” shall habitual drunkenness, or failure to sustain an appeal. Any member voting in mean a majority of the votes of those mean the official certificate issued as conform to the AMO National the minority may change his vote to entitled to vote. evidence of membership in this Union. Constitution or to a National Executive affirmative and give notice that he will Board Policy may be filed by a full time move to reconsider at the next meeting. (b) Majority Vote of the National (b) The term “permit number” shall mean elected National Officer or any three (3) Executive Committee the official permit number of applicant members of the National Executive Board, 7. Any member may call for a division of status issued to applicants upon the or by a 10% vote of all members in good the house on any question when subject When applicable to the National Executive applicant’s first employment assignment. standing of AMO, at regular Membership matter permits, and when three (3) Committee, “majority vote” or “majority Meetings at Headquarters, against any members call for the ayes and nays they vote of the National Executive Section 12. elected National Officer of the Union. shall be ordered taken by the Chair. Committee” shall mean a majority of the Such charges shall be filed with the votes of those entitled to vote. Meetings National President or National Secretary- 8. When the ayes and nays shall have been Treasurer, who shall, within 30 days of its taken, the result shall be noted in the Section 5. (a) All meetings conducted pursuant to receipt, mail a copy to each member of the minutes. this Constitution shall be governed by National Executive Board and to the Membership Action Robert’s Rules of Order unless otherwise National Officer or National Executive 9. Rules of Order not herein provided shall provided for herein. Board Member so charged. The National be decided according to Robert’s Rules of The term “membership action” shall mean Officer or National Executive Board Order. the same as the term “majority vote of the (b) Whenever the day on which a Member charged shall file a written membership.” scheduled Union meeting or action is to answer to the charge not later than 30 days take place falls on a holiday, the meeting ARTICLE XXII following the mailing of the charges by the Section 6. or action shall be put off until the next Definitions and Miscellaneous National President or National Secretary- business day at the same hour. Provisions Relating Thereto Treasurer. Titles Section 13. Section 1. Section 2. Where the title of any office or position is referred to in this Constitution, all Calendar Year Incapacity Trial references to it and the provisions concerned with it shall be equally The term “calendar year” shall mean a 12 Unless otherwise set forth herein, the term Upon the filing of the aforesaid charges, applicable to whomever is acting in such month period beginning with January 1st. “incapacity” shall mean (1) any illness or the National Executive Board shall office or position. other condition preventing the affected designate a Trial Committee, consisting of Section 14. person from carrying out his duties for three (3) members who must be full time Section 7. more than 45 days, or (2) suspension from and paid elected National Officers of the Area office or membership as provided for in Union, at least one (1) of whom shall be Election Year this Constitution or (3) failure to maintain from an area different than the other two The term “area” as used in this membership in good standing in this (2) members. The Trial Committee shall The “Election Year” shall mean that Constitution shall mean Deep Sea Area, Union. Nothing contained in this Article conduct a hearing at a place and time calendar year prior to the calendar year in Great Lakes Area or Inland Waters Area. shall be deemed to prohibit the temporary which it shall designate, provided, which elected officials and other elected assumption of duties of more than one (1) however, that the date of the hearing may position holders are required to assume Section 15. office, in which event no vacancy shall be not be set earlier than 30 days following office. deemed to exist with regard to the office the mailing of the charges by the National Gender of the National Officer as designated by President or National Secretary-Treasurer. the National President taking over the Section 8. Whenever the masculine gender is referred duties and functions of the one (1) Section 3. incapacitated. The period of incapacity Applicant in Good Standing to in this Constitution it shall also be deemed to include the feminine gender. shall be the time during which the Trial of the Accused circumstances exist. The term “applicant in good standing” shall mean a person seeking admission or Section 16. A written record of the hearing shall be readmission to this Union whose dues are Section 2. made. There shall be full opportunity for paid through the current quarter, who has Counsel examination and cross-examination of all not satisfied the initiation fee Vacancy and Vacancy Not Caused By an witnesses. The charged National Officer or requirements, and who has been issued a The term “counsel” when used as Incapacity National Executive Board Member may be permit number after filing the appropriate “counsel” to members during a trial or represented by counsel. The Trial application for membership and whose other proceeding means a member in good Unless otherwise set forth, the term Committee shall have full authority to acceptance into membership in this Union standing who acts as an advisor. “vacancy” and the term “vacancy not determine the rules of procedure which is pending. caused by an incapacity” shall be the shall govern all parties. The Trial Section 17. same, and shall include failure to perform Committee shall have full authority to Section 9. the functions of any office by reason of direct the charged National Officer or Suspend and Forgo death, or resignation or expulsion from the National Executive Board Member to Member Union with no further right to appeal in produce or make available to the Trial The term “suspend” means to defer to accordance with the provisions of this Committee or its designated agent any The term “member” shall mean a person some future date which may not exceed Constitution and failure of an elected books, records or other documents in the who has filed an appropriate application two (2) years. office holder to maintain membership in possession or under the direction or for membership in this Union, fully good standing at all times, or creation of a control of the charged party, and to direct satisfied the initiation fee, provided two The term “forgo” means permanently new office which is to be elective. any such charged party to submit to (2) letters of recommendation from relinquish. examination. members and has been accepted as a ______Section 3. ______member by the National Executive Board. Majority Vote of the Membership - ______Union as A Whole

When applicable to this Union as a whole, ✯ February 2018 9 Section 4. Section 7. Such submission may be to the receipt of the Appeals Committee’s membership at regular monthly recommendation, concerning the appeal Decision of the Trial Committee Immediate Suspension membership meeting at Headquarters or and supporting documentation. Any by mail ballot referendum as the National National Officer who has previously (a) After a full hearing, the Trial If the final decision is against the accused, Executive Board may determine. participated in the consideration or Committee shall render a written decision he shall be automatically suspended or disposition of the contractual grievance which shall be filed with the National removed from office or position in ARTICLE XXVI involved shall not participate in the President or National Secretary-Treasurer, accordance with the final decision, and, in Internal Appeals Procedure deliberations or decision concerning the who shall distribute copies to the charged the case of dismissal, the accused who is appeal in question. party, the party or parties who filed the found guilty shall be barred from holding Section 1. charges and to each member of the any future office, position or employment A copy of the decision of the National National Executive Board. Said decision in the Union. Before resorting to any court, tribunal or Executive Board shall be sent to the shall either recommend a dismissal of the agency, any member or applicant for appellant by the AMO National Secretary- charges in whole or in part, or a suspension Section 8. membership must appeal any action or Treasurer by overnight express mail or its or dismissal from office of the charged decision taken by any National Officer, private courier equivalent at the last party, or such other course of action which Criminal or Civil Liability concerning the handling or disposition of known mailing address of the appellant. it deems necessary to obtain compliance any contractual grievance pursuant to the with this Constitution or AMO policy. A decision rendered in favor of or against procedures set forth in this Article. (b) Appeal to a Membership Meeting any accused under the provisions of this (b) Any decision which calls for the Article shall not in any way limit his Section 2. An appeal to the membership at suspension or dismissal from office of the criminal liability or his civil liability under membership meeting of this Union from charged party shall also contain a the law to this Union. The route of appeal is: the decision made by the National provision relating to the membership of Executive Board shall be made by a said charged party. In the case of a ARTICLE XXIV FIRST, to the National Executive Board; member in person or in writing and by an suspension or dismissal of the charged Affiliation by written appeal within 60 calendar days applicant in writing addressed to the party from office, the charged party’s after the member or applicant is notified of National Secretary-Treasurer of the AMO membership may be suspended, or in the Section 1. the decision or action under challenge; and within 30 days after the member or case of a dismissal, he may be expelled SECOND, to the membership at applicant is notified by the National from membership. Also in case of (a) The National President or his membership meetings. Secretary-Treasurer of the decision by the dismissal, the charged party shall be authorized designee, with the approval of National Executive Board concerning the barred from holding any office, position or the National Executive Committee, shall Section 3. decision or action under challenge. The employment in the Union. In the case of a have the authority to affiliate with any appeal will be presented at the next suspension or dismissal of the charged other Union, group of Unions or an Procedures at Each Level of Appeal membership meeting. The National party, a vacancy shall be deemed to exist Association, provided, that the autonomy Secretary-Treasurer of the Union shall and filled in accordance with this of AMO is guaranteed and maintained and This Section specifies the procedures at notify the appellant in writing by certified Constitution. the National President determines this to each level of appeal. mail, return receipt requested, at the last be in the best interest of AMO and its known mailing address of the appellant (c) The full record of the proceeding shall membership. (a) Appeal to the National Executive within 60 days after the meeting of the be kept at AMO National Headquarters. Board: action taken on the appeal by the (b) There shall be no merger of this Union membership. Section 5. with any other Union without prior An appeal to the National Executive Board approval by: shall be in writing and postmarked not Section 4. Appeal to the National Executive Board later than 60 days after receipt by the 1. A majority vote of the National appellant of notice of the action or Upon receipt of the decision of the In the event either the charged party or the Executive Committee followed by; decision being appealed. The appeal shall membership, the appellant shall be charging parties desire to appeal to the be as specific and detailed as possible, and considered to have exhausted his internal National Executive Board, notice of the 2. A majority vote of the members in shall include all information available in appeals. appeal, together with a memorandum good standing by mail ballot referendum support of the appeal. The appeal shall be setting forth the exceptions taken and a under such terms as may be determined by addressed to the National Executive Section 5. brief comment, shall be filed with the the National Executive Committee. Board, c/o the National President. National President or National Secretary- The following rules, unless otherwise Treasurer within 20 days of the mailing by Section 2. The National Executive Board shall indicated, shall govern all levels of the the National President or National appoint a one (1) member Appeals appeal procedure: Secretary-Treasurer of the Trial The National Executive Committee shall Committee to consider the appeal and Committee’s decision. have the authority, whenever it may make recommendations. This Appeals (a) Contents of Appeal determine it is in the best interest of the Committee shall be composed of a If no such appeal is taken within the membership, to submit to a referendum member of the National Executive Board, Any appeal should set forth the action or prescribed time, the decision of the Trial vote among the membership any issues, but shall not include as a member any decision being appealed, and should Committee shall be presented to the policy, or action. Any such referendum National Officer who has previously include all information and documents in membership during the next scheduled shall be conducted in accordance with the participated in the consideration or support of the appeal. The appeal should membership meetings where, if ratified by procedure outlined in this Constitution for disposition of the contractual grievance be as specific and detailed as possible, and a majority vote, the decision shall be final. elections except that the time and duration involved. must be signed by the member(s) or of the vote and all other pertinent details applicant(s) involved. Section 6. shall be set by the National Executive The appeal and any supporting Board. information shall be forwarded by the (b) Calculation of Time Decision of the National Executive National President to the designated Board Section 3. Appeals Committee. After a review of the The time limits of Section 3 of this Article appeal and supporting information, the begin to run from the time the appellant The National Executive Board, (no By virtue of the affiliation of AMO with Appeals Committee may hold a hearing, first becomes aware, or reasonably should charged or charging members of the the Seafarers International Union of North unless the Committee concludes that no have become aware, of the alleged action National Executive Board shall be America, AFL-CIO, the President of the useful purpose would be served by a or decision appealed. In the case of an permitted to participate in discussions or SIUNA shall have the right to attend any hearing in which event the Appeals appeal from a decision of the National vote on this appeal) shall meet at the call membership meeting of AMO, its National Committee, in its discretion, may make Executive Board, the time limit shall begin of the National President and based on the Executive Board or National Executive recommendations on the appeal without a to run when the appellant first receives entire record, shall render its decision as to Committee with a voice but no vote hearing. The Appeals Committee shall use notice of the decision. For purposes of this the acceptance or rejection of the decision concerning the deliberations. its best efforts to complete consideration Article, “day” means a calendar day. If of the Trial Committee in the event an of the appeal and make a recommendation mailed, an appeal will be considered filed appeal has been taken. Its acceptance or ARTICLE XXV within 60 days, which, together with the on the date it is postmarked. rejection based on the appeal shall be in Amendments full record, shall be submitted to the writing and conveyed to the charged and National Executive Board. The National (c) Time Limits for Appeal charging parties within 3 days after This Constitution shall be amended in the Executive Board shall consider the record, making its decision, thereafter presented to following manner. The National Executive together with the Appeals Committee’s To be considered, an appeal must comply the membership during the next scheduled Board may propose and submit to the recommendation, and shall make a with these time limits, if no other time membership meetings where, if ratified by membership proposed amendments which, decision on the appeal. The National limit is specifically set forth in this a majority vote, the decision shall be final. if approved by a majority vote of the Executive Board shall use its best efforts Constitution: appeal to AMO National ______membership, shall be deemed adopted. to render its decision within 60 days of Executive Board, 60 calendar days; appeal to AMO membership meeting, 30 calendar ✯ 10 February 2018 days. invalid or inoperative by operation of law or any Court of law, the National (d) Extensions of Time Executive Board shall have the authority to suspend the operation of such provision In the case of any appeal, the National during the period of its invalidity and to President may waive the time for filing the substitute a provision which meets the appeal if warranted by the circumstances objections to its invalidity and which will and otherwise not prohibited by this be, to the extent possible, in accord with Constitution. the intent and purpose of the invalid provision. The remainder of this (e) Compliance Pending Appeal Constitution or the application of such Article or Section to persons other than The decision of the lower tribunal, in all those as to which it has been held invalid, cases, must be complied with before an shall not be affected. appeal can be accepted by a higher tribunal ______in authority, and shall remain in effect until reversed or modified. The National President may, upon written application of an appellant, waive in whole or in part requirements of such compliance where unusual circumstances warrant.

(f) Counsel

Any party to an appeal before the National Executive Board shall be permitted representation by counsel, or other representative of the party’s choice. Unless otherwise specified in this Constitution, counsel is not permitted before the membership meeting. The party retaining counsel, or other representative, shall bear any cost of such representation. The Appeals Committee, or National Executive Board, as the case may be, shall be entitled to have representation or the assistance of counsel, regardless of whether or not any party to an appeal chooses to utilize counsel.

(g) Briefs

Any party to an appeal may submit a brief or other written statement of position.

(h) Hearings

Hearings shall be such as determined appropriate in the discretion of the tribunal considering the issue, and shall bring to light all facts and issues involved. The appellant and appellee (or their representatives) shall be required to appear, with such witnesses as they may choose, and shall answer fully and truthfully all questions put to them. The parties shall be afforded full opportunity to present their respective positions on all matters bearing on the action, decision, or penalty under review. A hearing held by the National Executive Board, through its Appeal Committee, shall be held at a Union office, as close as possible to the locality from which the appeal originates in order to minimize the expense and inconvenience to the parties.

Section 6.

It shall be the duty of any member, applicant or group of members or applicants, if aggrieved by any action, decision or penalty imposed, to exhaust fully the member, applicant or group remedy and all appeals under this Constitution and the rules of this Union before going to a civil court or governmental agency for redress.

ARTICLE XXVII Savings Clause

The provisions of this Constitution shall be interpreted and applied in accordance with all applicable laws. If any provision of this Constitution shall be declared ✯ February 2018 11 ✯ 12 February 2018