VOL. XXVI NO. 1

WALNUT CREEK, CALIFORNIA JANUARY, 1978

Official Publication of I.B.E.W. Local Union 1245, AFL-C10, P.O. Box 4790, Walnut Creek, Ca. 94596

Pillard's Views on National THOUGHTS FOR A NEW YEAR Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year. He is rich Energy Legislation who owns the day, and no one owns the day who allows it to be invaded with In reply to a letter from Business bill through with inadequate hear- tion. We have opposed federal fret and anxiety. Finish every day and be done with it. You have done what Manager Dean Cofer, IBEW Inter- ings. In addition, certain portions takeover of regulation of utility rates you could. Some blunders and absur- national President Charles H. Pillard were added to the legislation that since we felt that there had not been dities, no doubt, crept in. Forget them made the following statement on were not requested by President adequate thought given to the effect as soon as you can, tomorrow is a new December 6, 1977, concerning the Carter. When the bill was considered of such drastic changes. We have day; begin it well and serenely, with too opinion of the International on the high a spirit to be cumbered with your by the Senate, the various Senate also opposed giving authority to the old nonsense. This new day is too dear, National Energy Legislation cur- subcommittees did hold adequate federal government to conduct anti- with its hopes and invitations, to waste rently before the Congress: hearings on what effect the bill trust reviews of any proposed new a moment on the yesterdays. "Basically, the IBEW has sup- would have on the consumer and in- coal or oil generating facilities. We —Ralph Waldo Emerson ported the Administration's energy dustry in general. (Continued on page six) bill, but with some very important ex- Basically, the IBEW has supported ceptions. As you may know, the the Senate version of this legislation House of Representatives rushed a especially in the public utility por- YOUR Business Maliager 1245 Leadership Conference Local 1245's Unit Chairpersons and portance of being an effective public COLUMN Unit Recorders were invited to attend speaker and how to get over some of a two-day leadership conference in the hurtles, i.e., grammar, nerves, Oakland on November 19 and 20, etc. in order to get the point across to 1977. The main thrust of the con- listeners. He emphasized parliamen- Moving Ahead ference was to provide an in-depth tary procedure and its importance in overview of the mechanics of Local the handling of meetings. Specific Union 1245. This program was questions were answered concern- DEAN COFER designed especially for Local 1245 ing "Robert's Rules of Order", which by Norman Amundson, Chairman of is the parliamentary guide for Local Six months have passed since I hospitalized with a ruptured appen- the Center for Labor Research and 1245. took office as your Business Man- dix and resultant post-operative con- Education, Institute of Industrial Other speakers included Business ager — Financial Secretary. They valescence, Brother Harrington has Relations at the University of Califor- Manager Dean Cofer, Center for have been eventful, sometimes temporarily been assigned to fill in nia, Berkeley with the assistance of Labor Research and Education frustrating, always interesting, and behind Brother Fortier as one of the Business Manager Dean Cofer, Chairman Norman Amundson, Ex- certainly challenging months. Dur- two General Construction represen- President Howard Darington and Ad- ecutive Board Member Marvin Ru- ing these first six months I have tatives. When Brother Fortier is able ministrative Assistant Rose Guelid. bendall, Department of Industrial received the cooperation, help, pa- to resume work we will begin to carry Dr. Fred S. Stripp, Director of Safety Representatives Art Carter tience and understanding of a large out our organizing plans — on pro- Forensics and Lecturer in Rhetoric, and George Hurley, Vice President segment of our 17,000 plus member- perties already represented by our at the U.C., Berkeley was the keynote Ron Fitzsimmons, Attorney Peter ship — and as a result, I am pleased Local Union and on properties not speaker. His talk highlighted the im- (Continued on page six) to report that your Union is on the currently organized. move. Shop Steward training meetings, One item of interest to the mem- systemwide, will be scheduled on a bership is that effective January 16, regular basis beginning next month. 1978, I have assigned Assistant Busi- In addition, a universal Shop ness Manager Merton A. Walters, (in Steward training plan has been addition to his other duties), to be developed for use throughout our Local Union 1245's legislative advo- Local Union. The universal program cate in Sacramento. This is a posi- has been patterned on an existing tion that Brother Walters previously training course created, and in use held for the Local Union, but was dis- for a number of years, by Brother continued in 1974. Legislative ac- Corb Wheeler, Business Represen- tivity is of crucial importance to our tative in North Bay Division, and members and their families — for Brother Frank Quadros, Business those things that are won at the Representative in San Francisco Shown above from left to right are: Recording Secretary Kathy Tindall, President Howard Darington, Attorney Peter Nussbaum. bargaining table can easily be lost if Division. Business Manager Dean Cofer and Executive Board Member Bob Thomson. not protected through the legislative Staff training is also going for- process. ward. Two five-day training courses In addition, as of January 16th, I have already been conducted by hired an additional Business Repre- U.C. Berkeley at our Local Union of- sentative whose prime purpose is to fice (they were "Labor Law" and serve as an organizer. The new Busi- "Communications for Union ness Representative, Mickey Har- Leaders"). Two additional five-day rington, is not a stranger to Local courses are being scheduled at this Union 1245, having served pre- time — "Collective Bargaining Tech- viously in a number of positions of niques", and "Psychology for Union trust and responsibility such as Shop Leaders". A two-day in-house train- Steward, General Construction Grie- ing course entitled "Cost of Living vance Committee Chairman, Execu- Adjustments" is also scheduled. tive Board Member At-Large, Local The Local Union is heavily in- Union Recording Secretary and Bus- volved in negotiations with a number iness Representative. Due to Busi- of public and private employer ness Representative Ed Fortier being (Continued on Page two) In 1977, Local Union 1245 donated YOUR Burinesr Manager's COLUMN $500 to assist the strike and boycott against the Adolph Coors Brewery. Moving Ahead However, the boycott is still in great 800140t! need of funding to continue. DEAN COFER David Sickler, an AFL-CIO field coos representative who was subjected to (Continued from page one) lie detector tests and other indig- groups at this time (see Bargaining and Brotherhood. I believe that we nities himself while working at the Roundup on Page eleven). PG&E in- are well on our way to achieving Coors brewery in Golden, Colorado, terim bargaining is perhaps the most these goals: Members are regaining pointed out to more than 200 labor time-consuming project facing us at confidence in the Union; employers editors at the International Labor the present time. We currently have are becoming convinced that they AFL-CIO Brewery Workers Press Association Convention. that fourteen interim negotiating commit- are once again dealing with Union Local 366 ON STRIKE more than 92% of the Coors workers tees formed and working, or about to leaders who are more concerned at Adolph Coors Co., had voted in favor of the union and begin working. Please attend your with the attitudes of the membership Golden, Cob. charged that Joe Coors' personal Unit meetings for information on than they are with maintaining a Urion labolirdNiviceledsoDePropleit AR-CID philosophy "makes Attila the Hun what subjects in the PG&E contract mythical "relationship with Com- look liberal." Sickler stated that a are open for interim negotiations. pany"; and, in my travels to various The united labor boycott of anti- company representative said, "we One of my first priorities upon tak- meetings around the system (and union Coors beer has forced the buy our help like we buy our barley." ing office was to attempt to rebuild based upon reports that I receive Denver-based brewery to endure "If we get the 100 percent coopera- the Union's image, restore confi- from others), I am convinced that the some severe drops in their sales in tion of Union members in support of dence, and to bring back the old- "spirit of Brotherhood" is on the rise California. State beer sales figures the boycott, we will win," Sickler time evangelistic spirit of Unionism among our membership. obtained from a recent monthly re- said. He said also that sales have port produced by the United States already been cut 30 percent, mostly Brewers Association by the Joint because of the efforts of the labor Council statistical department movement. But he warned that Coors AFL-CIO Boycott Guide showed: is stepping up its advertising and the AMERICAN BUILDINGS, INC. — METAL BUILDINGS Sales dropped 14.7% from the company made a $76 million net Metal structures including storage buildings, warehouses, etc. — UNITED STEEL- month of September 1976 to the profit last year. Stressing the need to WORKERS OF AMERICA. month of September, 1977; redouble the Coors boycott efforts, BARTLETT-COLLINS COMPANY — GLASSWARE Actual Coors sales dropped by Sickler warned that: "Coors repre- Glass products including drinking glasses, mugs, etc. — AMERICAN FLINT GLASS WORKERS UNION. 23.3% from August 1977 to Septem- sents a cancer that wouldn't just COORS BREWERY — BEER ber 1977, while total beer sales drop- weaken or cripple us, but would AFL—CIO BREWERY WORKERS D.A.L.U. 366 is on strike at Coors Brewery in Golden, ped by 12%. literally destroy us." Colorado for decent working conditions. Coors' percent of the California Additional information concerning CHARLES MANUFACTURING COMPANY — FURNITURE market was 7.8% less in September, the boycott may be obtained from the Coffee tables, end tables and similar items — these are sold under the FOX brand name UNITED FURNITURE WORKERS OF AMERICA. 1977 than in May, 1977 (the start of Coors Boycott Committee, Brewery CROFT METALS, INC. — HOME BUILDING PRODUCTS the Coors boycott). Workers, Local 366, 2724 West Aluminum and vinyl doors and windows including storm doors and windows, bathtub In the meantime, Coors executives Eighth Street, Los Angeles. CA enclosures, patio doors, ladders, camper products and building speciality products continue to try to bolster their sag- 90005 or the Los Angeles County —UNITED BROTHERHOOD OF CARPENTERS AND JOINERS OF AMERICA. DAL-TEX OPTICAL CO. — PRESCRIPTION GLASSES, CONTACT LENSES, FRAMES ging beer sales by turning to the Federation of Labor. Attention, Eyeglass lenses, frames, contact lenses, sunglasses, safety glasses sold through optical retailers media, primarily television, and Marilyn Vergara, 2130 West Ninth — INTERNATIONAL UNION OF ELECTRICAL, RADIO AND MACHINE spending large sums of capital in an Street, Los Angeles, California WORKERS. advertising blitz. 90006. GRAPES AND LETTUCE Do not buy table grapes or lettuce which does not bear the Union Label of the UNITED FARMWORKERS OF AMERICA, AFL-CIO on the carton or crate. IOWA BEEF PROCESSORS, INC. — MEAT PRODUCTS Beef products, carried in many retail stores nationwide — AMALGAMATED MEAT CUT- Stop Forced Overtime! TERS & BUTCHER WORKMEN. J. P. STEVENS & CO. — TEXTILE PRODUCTS Sheets and pillowcases, carpets, comforters and quilts, table linen, hosiery, towels, blankets. fabrics, etc. — AMALGAMATED CLOTHING AND TEXTILE WORKERS UNION. To Clean Up The Mess - And Create More Jobs! KINGSPORT PRESS — PRINTING Book printer and its major customers including Field Enterprises Educational Corporation. publishers of World Book, Childcraft. Also, Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc. including Bri- TIONAL UNION; INTERNATIONAL PRINTING AND GRAPHIC COMMUNICA- TIONS UNION; INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MACHINISTS; INTERNA- TIONAL TYPOGRAPHICAL UNION. MASON-TYLER MANUFACTURING COMPANY — FURNITURE Household furniture — UNITED FURNITURE WORKERS OF AMERICA. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY — CIGARETTES & TOBACCO Brand names: Winston. Salem. Camel. Doral, Vantage, More, Now, and Real Cigarettes: Winchester Little Cigars: Prince Albert Smoking Tobacco — TOBACCO WORKERS IN- TERNATIONAL UNION. RYLOCK COMPANY, LTD.—RIVETING MACHINERY Riveting machinery - INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MACHINISTS AND AEROSPACE WORKERS.

the utility reporter Telephone (415) 933-6060

DEAN COFER Executive Editor DOROTHY FORTIER Managing Editor WILLIE STEWART Assistant Editor

Executive Board: Howard Darington, Ron Fitzsimmons. C. P. "Red" Henneberry, Mary Rubendall, Howard Sticfcr, Bob Thomson and Kathy Tindall.

Published monthly at 3063 Citrus Circle, Walnut Creek, California 94598 Offi- cial publication of Local Union 1245, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, AFL-CIO, P.O. Box 4790, Walnut Creek, Ca. 94596. Second Class postage paid at Walnut Creek and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Please send Form 3579, Change of Address, and all correspondence to the Utility Reporter. to P.O. Box 4790. Walnut Creek. Calif. 94596.

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Utility Reporter—January, 1978—Page Two Effective January 1, 1978 Free Choice of Doctors Senate Bill 520, the law which pro- the employee in providing treatment. LOOK FOR THE vides that California workers who After 30 days from the date the injury suffer disabling on-the-job injuries is reported, the employee may be tre- or illnesses may be treated by their ated by a physician of his own UNION own doctor from the first day of injury choice or at a facility of his own went into effect January 1, 1978. choice within a reasonable STORE CARD The new law still requires workers geographic area. However, if an to notify their employers in writing in employee has notified his employer advance of any disability that they in writing prior to the date of injury have a personal physician and want that he or she has a personal physi- UNION LABEL & SERVICE TRADES DEPT AFL-00 to be treated by him or her if they are cian, the employee shall have the disabled. right to be treated by such physician Any worker wishing to exercise from the date of injury. For the pur- LOCAL UNION 1245 the privileges provided by the new pose of this section, "personal physi- law should immediately notify their cian" means the employee's regular LETTER OF AGREEMENT SUMMARIES employer. physician and surgeon, licenced The text of Senate Bill 520 is pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing shown below: with Section 2000) of Division 2 of Editor's note: Members of Local Union 1245 who wish to receive a copy of the the Business and Professions Code, full text of a letter of agreement shown below may do so by submitting their writ- Senate Bill No. 520 who has previously directed the ten request to the Local Union. CHAPTER 1172 medical treatment of the employee, An act to amend Section 4600 of and who retains the employee's medical records, including his or her Pacific Gas and Electric Company the Labor Code, relating to workers' compensation. medical history. PG&E 77-52: Provides for the revision of the Water and Gas Subforeman, (Approved by Governor September 30,1977. In accordance with the rules of Willits job description and the line of progression to this classification. Estab- Filed with Secretary of State September 30, practice and procedure of the ap- lishes the position of Water Treatment Plant Operator, Schedule I, Willits, its job 1977.) peals board, the employee, or the de- definition, line of progression and rate of pay. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST pendents of a deceased employee, SB 520, Foran. Workers' compen- shall be reimbursed for expenses PG &E 77-61: Provides for the establishment of a trial flextime arrangement for sation: medical treatment. reasonably, actually, and necessarily employees in the Comptroller's Department who presently work the first work Existing law provides that, after 30 incurred for X-rays, laboratory fees, shift at 77 Beale Street in San Francisco. days from the date an injury compen- medical reports, medical testimony, PG&E 77-63: Provides for the placement of an employee returning from long sable under the workers' compensa- and, as needed, interpreter's fees, to term disability in a Lineman position at Concord. tion insurance law is reported, the in- prove a contested claim. The jured employee may be treated by a reasonableness of and necessity for PG&E 77-65: Provides for the change of the work hours of Communication physician of his own choice or at a incurring such expenses to prove a Technicians at the East Bay Division Electric Communications Shop in San facility of his own choice within a contested claim shall be determined Leandro. reasonable geographic area. with respect to the time when such PG&E 77-66: Provides that Monday, July 3, 1978 be the floating holiday for This bill would, instead, specify expenses were actually incurred. Ex- General Construction employees. that if the employee has notified his penses of medical testimony shall be employer in writing prior to the date presumed reasonable if in confor- PG&E 77-67: Establishes the provisions to handle transferred or dislocated of injury that he has a personal employees who will be affected by Vacaville's warehouse activities being mity with the fee schedule charges physician, as defined, the employee moved to the Materials Center at Emeryville. provided for impartial medical ex- shall have the right to be treated by perts appointed by the administrative PG&E 77-68: Provides for the placement of an employee to a vacant Clerk D such physician from the date of inj- director. position in Customer Services at Berkeley. ury. Where at the request of the This bill would also incorporate PG&E 77-70: A joint application to the Industrial Welfare Commission re- employer, the employer's insurance changes to Section 4600 of the Labor questing a limited exemption from the record keeping requirements of Section carrier, the administrative director, Code proposed by AB 1346 and 7 of Order 4-76. the appeals board or a referee, the chaptered as Chapter 442 of the employee submits to examination by PG&E 77-73: Establishes the provisions to change the starting time of second Statutes of 1977. a physician, he shall be entitled to shift employees at the Fremont Gas Meter Shop on December 23, 1977 only. The people of the State of California receive in addition to all other do enact as follows: benefits herein provided all reasona- SECTION 1. Section 4600 of the ble expenses of transportation, Sierra Pacific Power Company Labor Code, as amended by Chapter meals and lodging incident to report- 442 of the Statutes of 1977, is ing for such examination, together SPPC 77-20: Provides for the establishment of a Serviceman, Customer (Dis- amended to read: with one day of temporary disability trict) classification, associated wage rate, revision of an existing line of 4600. Medical, surgical, chiroprac- indemnity for each day of wages lost progression with respect thereto and reclassification of the incumbent tic, and hospital treatment, including in submitting to such an examina- employee. nursing, medicines, medical and tion. "Reasonable expenses of SPPC 77-21: Provides for the reclassification of a Lineman, Apprentice in the surgical supplies, crutches, and ap- transportation" includes mileage Electric Department at Carson City to Service Utilityman. paratus, including artificial mem- fees from the employee's home to the bers, which is reasonably required to place of the examination and back at SPPC 77-22: Provides for the establishment of a special temporary revised cure or relieve from the effects of the the rate of fourteen cents ($0.14) a schedule of work days and work hours for incumbent Hydro Operators in the injury shall be provided by the mile, plus any bridge tolls. Such Power Production System Operations Occupational Group. employer. In the case of his neglect mileage and tolls shall be paid to the SPPC 77-24: Provides for the reclassification of a Lineman, Apprentice in the or refusal seasonably to do so, the employee at the time he is given Electric Department at Reno to a Service Utilityman in the Service Center at employer is liable for the reasonable notification of the time and place of Reno. expense incurred by or on behalf of the examination. Notes of Interest Local Union 1245's President, Howard Darington, attended the 12th Constitu- Charles R. Dailey, Unit No. 3812 Vacaville was the winner of the Unit Drawing tional Convention of the AFL-CIO as a delegate of the Stanislaus-Tuolumne for the month of December 1977. Counties Central Labor Council. The convention convened in Los Angeles, * * * California on December 8,1977 and remained in session until the completion of Unit 3911, Sacramento Municipal Utility District in Sacramento was the win- business on December 14, 1977. ner of the Local Union Unit Social Fund for the month of December 1977. * * * * * * Lindell Williams has been appointed Advisory Councilman by the Executive Business Manager Dean Cofer, who is a Director of the California Council for Board to replace Jack Hill for the San Jose Division, City of Santa Clara, Ad- Economic and Environmental Balance, was recently appointed to serve as a visory Council vacancy created by Jack's resignation. member of the Council's Energy Committee. * * *

Utility Reporter—January, 1978—Page Three OFFICES Impact of Social DIVISION OF INDUSTRIAL SAFETY Main Offices San Francisco 455 Golden Gate Ave. 94102 415-557-1946 Security Tax Increases Los Angeles 3460 Wilshire Blvd. 90010 213-736-3035 Here is a rundown on the social legislation will result in a relatively if their earnings were under $3,000 a Regional Offices security amendments that President modest additional increase in the year. Above that amount, benefits Los Angeles 3460 Wilshire Blvd. 90010 Carter signed into law on Dec. 21 to payroll tax over the amounts pre- would be reduced by $1 for each $2 213-736-3024 strengthen the system's financing viously scheduled for persons earn- in earnings. After age 72, there was Sacramento 2422 Arden Way 95825 916-920-6127 and provide more adequate benefits. ing under $20,000 a year. no restriction on earnings. San Francisco 1540 Market St. 94102 The amendments will: But a bigger extra bite will come The theory of an earnings limit is 415-557-1677 Change the formula for comput- off the paychecks of persons in up- that social security is intended as a Santa Ana 28 Civic Center Plaza 92701 ing retirement benfits to remedy a per income brackets, largely source of income after retirement, 714-558-4476 technical flaw in a 1972 amendment because the amount of pay subject to not as an annuity to be paid on District Offices to the social security law. the social security tax will be signifi- reaching a set age. It would require a Bakersfield 225A Chester Ave. 93301 The miscalculation would have cantly higher. substantial increase in the payroll 805-324-6437 been compounded over the years if Concord 1070 Concord Ave. 94520 Thus, in 1987, the person earning tax to eliminate the retirement test 415-676-5333 left uncorrected. The new formula is $10,000 a year will have $1.35 a week completely, as the House initially El Monte 3415 Fletcher Ave. 91731 intended to assure that the average more deducted for social security voted to do. 213-572-9003 worker will get a retirement benefit (including the Medicare and dis- The final version raises the ceiling Fresno 2550 Mariposa St. 93721 equal to 43 percent of pre-retirement ability insurance programs) than 209-488-5302 on outside earnings to $4,000 for Long Beach 230 E. Fourth St. 90802 wages, with cost-of-living protection would have been the case under the 1978, and then by $500 a year to 213-590-5035 after retirement. old law. $6,000 in 1982. Thereafter, the ceil- Los Angeles 3460 Wilshire Blvd. 90010 Raise both the payroll tax rate At the $20,000 pay level, the added ing will continue to rise in line with 213-736-3041 and the maximum income subject to cost of this year's amendments will the increase in average wages. Also, Modesto 1800 Coffee Rd. 95355 the social security payroll tax above 209-529-7751 be $2.70 a week in 1987. But a person starting in 1982, there will be no limit Oakland 1111 Jackson St. 94607 the levels scheduled under the old earning $40,000 a year will pay an on earnings for persons aged 70 and 415-464-0660 law. additional $16.30 a week. 71 — a two-year drop from the pre- Panorama City 8155 Van Nuys Blvd. 91402 As at present, the tax will be the In return for paying more into the sent law. 213-782-1800 same for workers and employers and fund, those with higher incomes will Redding 1421 Court St. 96001 However, a person with an annual 916-246-6571 the payroll tax will be the sole source be building up bigger future retire- income over the cutoff level will no Sacramento 2422 Arden Way 95825 of funding. ment benefits and will have greater longer be able to receive a social 916-920-6123 The Administration had proposed insurance protection while security check for a month in which San Bernardino 303 W. Third St. 92401 and the AFL-CIO had strongly urged employed. earnings were more than one-twelfth 714-383-4321 that the federal government make a San Diego 1309 State St. 92101 The employer share of the social of the annual ceiling. 714-237-7325 contribution during years of high security tax will go up by the same Other new provisions: San Francisco 1540 Market St. 94102 unemployment and that employers amount, but the net cost will be less Shorten from 20 to 10 years the 415-557-1677 be taxed on the full amount of their since business firms can deduct the length of time a divorced person San Jose 888 No. First St. 95112 payrolls, with no upper limit. cost of social security taxes while 408-277-1260 must have been married to a worker Santa Ana 28 Civic Center Plaza 92701 But Congress rejected both con- workers are taxed on their full in- to be eligible for the divorced 714-558-4141 cepts. comes. including the amount taken spouse's survivor benefits; Santa Barbara 3704 State St. 93105 The Carter proposals would have out for social security. Bar any loss of benefits for 805-682-2578 held down the amount of the payroll At the White House signing widows over 60 who remarry, effec- Santa Fe Springs 14111 E. Freeway Dr. 90670 tax increase needed to fund social 213-802-1711 ceremony for the bill, President tive January 1979; Santa Rosa 725 Farmer Lane 95405 security benefits, and AFL-CIO Carter said the income tax reduc- -,j Reduce social security benefits 707-542-8802 Social Security Director Bert Seid- tions that he will propose to Con- to a dependent spouse by the Vernon 2833 Leonis Blvd. 90058 man expressed labor's regret that gress in January will offset the amount of any federal, state or local 213-589-5848 Congress didn't adopt them. heavier payroll tax burden that civil service pension received by the Field Offices Congress wrote into the bill a workers will incur. spouse after a five-year transition Chico 555 Rio Lindo Ave. 95926 two-year study of the controversial period; 916-345-7131 Carter predicted that the new leg- Eureka 619 Second St. 95501 issue of mandatory coverage of islation will assure the soundness of Direct a study of differences in 707-442-5748 federal, state and local employees — the social security system through the treatment of men and women Salinas 21 W. Laurel Dr. 93902 or any combination thereof — under the year 2030. Projections that far under the social security program, 408-449-7235 social security. into the future involve estimates of with a report to Congress in six Stockton 31 E. Channel St. 95202 Seidman noted that the AFL-CIO 209-948-7762 such variables as the birth rate over months. Ukiah 264 E. Smith St. 95482 convention asked the federation's the next five decades, unemployment Establish a nine-member com- 707-462-8850 Executive Council to monitor the levels and trends toward earlier or mission to study the financial condi- Ventura 5740 Ralston St. 93003 study to insure that its recommenda- later retirements. tion of the various social security 805-644-8219 tions provide full protection for the The issue of retirement age and in- programs and trust funds, with a final DIS CONSULTING STAFF retirement rights of public workers. come emerged as one of the more report due in two years. San Francisco 1540 Market St. 94102 Even without the new legislation, controversial elements of the bill as Require an employer to pay a 415-557-0600 the payroll tax would have risen it moved through the House and the social security tax on the portion of a Sacramento 2424 Arden Way 95825 substantially in the years ahead to 916-920-6131 Senate. worker's tips that are credited to the Fresno 2550 Mariposa St. 93721 pay for previous improvements in the Under the old law, persons bet- minimum wage. Previously, only the 209-488-5072 law. ween the ages of 65 and 72 could worker paid social security taxes on Panorama City . 8155 Van Nuys Blvd. 91402 213-786-3870 Over the coming decade, the new draw full social security benefits only tips. —Calif. AFL-C10 News Los Angeles 3460 Wilshire Blvd. 90010 213-736-3091 San Diego 1309 State St. 92101 Impact of Tax Changes 714-236-7325 In New Social Security Law San Bernardino 303 W. Third St. 92401 714-383-4567 The following table compares total annual social security taxes scheduled under the old law and under the amendments signed into law by President Carter Dec. 21 for workers at various wage levels. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH BRANCH Headquarters Berkeley 2151 Berkeley Way 94704 Earnings 1977 1978 1982 1987 415-843-7900 (No. 391) Old Law $585 $ 605 $ 630 $ 645 $10,000 Field Offices New Law 605 670 715 Fresno 2550 Mariposa St. 93721 Old Law 878 908 945 968 209-421-5273 $15,000 New Law 908 1,005 1,073 Los Angeles 1449 W. Temple St. 90026 213-620-4290 Old Law 965 1,071 1,474 1,613 $25,000 Sacramento 714 P St. 95814 New Law 1,071 1,675 1,788 916-920-6123 Old Law 965 1,071 1,474 2,012 San Diego 1309 State St. 92101 $40.000 New Law 1,071 2,131 2,869 714-236-7218 San Francisco 455 Golden Gate Ave. 94102 415-557-1710

Utility Reporter—January, 1978—Page Four Shop Stewards Meet in San Jose By Ory Owen to attend this training session . Stewards present were: Robert Thomson, Steve In an effort to continue the ongoing educational training goals of Local Union Cramer, Ray Reynolds, John Martinez, William Hennings, Lindell Williams, 1245, a Shop Stewards' Training Conference was held on December 10, 1977 at Reynold Fitzpatrick, David Melanephy, Norm Mercer, Wayne Freitas, Harold the San Jose Hyatt for Stewards in the San Jose Division, Davey Tree Company, Zirpel, Fred Baney, John Scott, Christiaan Vanderstaay, Dave Docktor, M.W. and San Jose area General Construction. Representing Business Manager "Wil" Regan, John Wells, Kurt Knollenberg, Bill Twohey, Ron Swilley, Michael Dean Cofer at this meeting were Assistant Business Manager Larry Foss and J. Mello, Erick Larsen, Jack Hill, Percy Rome, Steve Moore, Marshall Massey, Business Representatives Mike Davis, Roger Stalcup and myself. Attorney Douglas O'Connor, Barbara Symons, Sharon Blais, Joe Martin and Warren Peter Nussbaum from Local 1245's Law Firm also participated. "Cy" Burr. "Shop Stewards" are the cornerstone of local unions. In order to be a suc- It has been stated that the physical presence of workers in an organization, cessful Steward, it is not necessary to have the wisdom of Solomon or the i.e., names entered on record scrolls, payment of dues, etc. are only the begin- strength of Hercules, but it is necessary to be the kind of person who enjoys ning of an organization. What is more essential is psychological mobilization; helping other people and who has the intelligence to guard the interests of something must happen to minds of men and women; a union man and/or fellow workers. Local Union 1245's membership in the San Jose area is indeed woman must come into harmony with a great tradition, feel a part of it and learn fortunate to have such a fine group of dedicated Stewards looking after their in- to go along with it and "belong". terests. Just as unions are not built overnight, neither are shop stewards. Local 1245 A large group of Stewards in the San Jose area were present at the Saturday Shop Stewards Training and Educational programs must be a continual pro- meeting. They gave up a Saturday with their families and other weekend chores cess and must be well attended by those the program is designed to assist.

Good Sense Prevails California Voters Dump Anti- Strike Initiative by Ignoring It

Despite the reported expenditure ple of California that this anti- volved, regardless of whether they Cities, and a broad array of other of about one-quarter of a million dol- worker petition was rejected. were elected or appointed to their conservative organizations. lars and the support of powerful "Its failure is a blow against the posts. Failure of the initiative, which had employer interests, promoters of an opportunists of both political parties In addition, the initiative would also been endorsed by former initiative constitutional amendment who have been attacking public have: California Governor Ronald aimed at outlawing strikes by employee rights in San Francisco • Outlawed the union shop and the Reagan, was seen as a blow to the California's public employees con- and elsewhere during the past two development of any effective unions political hopes of San Diego Mayor ceded defeat this week. years." in the entire field of public employ- Pete Wilson, who embraced the in- Just two days before the Decem- PROVISIONS ment; itiative in his campaign for the 1978 ber 2 deadline for filing petitions The initiative would have sub- • Prohibited the use of public gubernatorial nomination. containing the signatures of 499,846 jected all public employees—and employee dues for political purpose; CREDIT GIVEN qualified voters with county clerks that's about 1,386,000 or one out of • Outlawed the use of binding ar- A great deal of credit for the failure throughout the state, spokespersons every six California workers—who bitration to settle disputes; and, of the initiative goes, according to for the two sponsoring committees engaged in a strike or who "directly • Prohibited any public agency Henning, to officials like Los said that they had only gathered or indirectly" tried to induce or en- from agreeing to increase public Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley, San 480,000 signatures and admitted that courage a strike against a public employee benefits or compensation Francisco Mayor George Moscone not all of those could be considered employer to mandatory dismissal in response to a strike. and Governor Jerry Brown who valid. and loss of all tenure and seniority. The measure was abandoned came out strongly against the initia- John F. Henning, executive secre- It would also have placed absolute despite its support by the California tive. The state AFL-CIO was pre- tary-treasurer of the California authority to determine public Manufacturers' Assn., the Republican pared to launch a massive campaign Labor Federation, AFL-CIO, called workers' wages, hours and working State Central Committee, the Califor- against the initiative, should it the initiative's failure to qualify "a conditions solely in the hands of offi- nia Federation of Republican qualify for the June ballot. credit to the good sense of the peo- cials heading the public agency in- Women, the League of California —Calif. AFL-CIO News

Utility Reporter—January, 1978—Page Five

IN THE NAME OF JUSTICE ... Labor Law Reform Vital Passage of this bill We're Only Halfway Home a MUST in °781 October 6, 1977, was a big day for tion — favorable approval of S. 1883 America's workers. On that day, the — at the earliest possible time. House of Representatives voted The labor law reform bill is overwhelmingly, 257-163, in favor of designed to ensure the legal right of sweeping reforms of the National workers to organize and bargain col- Labor Relations Act. lectively by doing three things: But for the nation's wage earners, speeding up National Labor Rela- it was really only a half-victory — for tions Board proceedings, removing passage by one branch of Congress administrative barriers, and giving isn't enough. It takes two to tango. workers relief from the pressure and So until the Senate joins the House harassment many have suffered at in approving Labor Law Reform, the hands of anti-union employers. we're only halfway home. The bill deals exclusively with In the wake of the House of Repre- union representation elections and sentatives passage, widespread tri- first contracts. It has nothing to do bute was paid to the great lobbying with existing collective bargaining effort carried on by the cards, letters, relationships. and telegrams from the folks back "Law-abiding employers and home— the trade unionists and their unions have nothing to fear from this allies around the country. bill," was the way Secretary of Labor Now, with the New Year here, we'll Ray Marshall expressed it. And cor- have to be doing the same thing in porate executives themselves the Senate. The Labor Law Reform claimed in House testimony that it bill may come up for a vote very early would affect only five percent of the after Congress reconvenes about nation's employers — the five per- January 20, or it may be a couple of cent who repeatedly flout the law. months later. For that reason, it has been some- •IBEW The precise schedule isn't known. what of a mystery why America's because it depends on whether the respectable employers felt com- Senate takes it up before or after the pelled to line up with the labor law Address to: U.S. Senator • c/o The U.S. Senate • Washington, D.C. 20510 Panama Canal treaties. violators during the House con- Whenever it is, union members sideration of the bill. r The ultimate effect of this bill I Dear Senator: who want to see the labor law work would be to restore the principal I The Labor Law Reform Bill (S. 1883) has my strong support. It's for wage earners instead of for anti- labor law of the land to its former needed. It should be passed. Please vote for it. union employers will have to be get- ting their message to the 100 mem- strength and dignity — and to make sure that it serves the vital needs of Name bers of the Senate. We can't take anything for granted, particularly millions of union members, and the Address when Senators have the right to millions of their fellow workers who unlimited debate— call it "filibuster" urgently desire to become union City State Zip if you will — to hold up action on a members. bill. To become law, this bill must be Union members and their Wash- approved by the members of the U.S. ington representatives will have to Senate. '78 COPE Area Conference make it amply clear that we want ac- Set in S.F. April 15 1245 Leadership Conference The AFL-CIO Committee on to help reelect as many of our Political Education will hold its friends as possible," he said, (Continued from page one) and Safety Committees, OSHA, the 1978 conference for AFL-CIO adding that the conferences Nussbaum of Local 1245's Law Firm Unit's relationship to the Local delegates from Arizona, will set the tone for the entire in San Francisco and President Union, duties of Advisory Council as California and Nevada at the COPE effort in 1978. Howard Darington. Local 1245 Staff it affects Unit operation and Local Sheraton-Palace Hotel in San The San Francisco con- members Charlie Gadzik, Frank 1245's Legal Assistance Program. Francisco on Saturday, April ference will be the ninth in a Quadros, Wayne Weaver, Pat At the conclusion of the meeting 15. series of 10 such conferences Rutherford, Robert Gibbs, Mike on Sunday, all those who partici- In announcing the con- to be held throughout the na- Davis, Ed Vallejo, Jim McCauley, Ory pated in the two-day seminar were ference, COPE Director Al tion to gear up for the 1978 pri- Owen and John Stralla conducted a presented certificates of completion. Barkan said: mary and general election cam- simulated unit meeting, which dem- "We have our work cut out paigns. onstrated how not to hold meetings. for us next year. There are Senators and Representa- The simulation not only sparked tre- National Energy scores of marginal house seats tives from each of the states in- mendous laughter from the au- and about a dozen marginal volved in each conference will dience, but it also generated some Legislation Senate contests confronting us be invited to speak and a new serious questions on how to properly in which the combined COPE film which depicts the handle various situations which (Continued from page one) resources of the newly active threat of the now highly arise during meetings. have also opposed the delay of right-wing and the fast sophisticated right-wing politi- Extensive coverage was given wholesale rate proceedings and the multiplying corporate political cal effort will be shown. concerning the duties and respon- forced wheeling and pooling provi- action committees will be All local unions are invited to sibilities of Unit officers during the sions that the House-sponsored thrown against our friends. send delegates, Barkan said. afternoon workshops held on Satur- measure contained. "We've really go to go all out day. President Darington and Sr. The concern of the IBEW has been Assistant Business Manager Willie towards the effect the overall legis- R. Stewart chaired the Unit Chairper- lation will have on our IBEW mem- sons Workshop. Recording Secre- bership, who both work in the indus- UNIT MEETING BULLETIN tary Kathy Tindall and Business try and, of course, are affected as UNIT 2315, LIVERMORE ings will be on the following Representative Larry Hope con- consumers. The legislation is cur- meets at Eagles Hall, 525 Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.: Febru- ducted the Unit Recorder Workshop. rently before the Senate-House Con- North Livermore Avenue. The ary 2, March 2, April 6, May 4 On the final day of the conference, ferees, and whether or not a bill will Chairman is K. McCoy. Meet- and June 1, 1978. various speakers disussed the duties finally be enacted is unknown at the and responsibilities of Unit Health present time."

Utility Reporter—January, 1978—Page Six Honors bestowed on Quadros and Wilder Service Awards Presentation by Local 1245's Staff Banquet in Redding On Friday, December 9, 1977, Local Union 1245 held an Awards Presen- tation Banquet for its members employed by the United States Bureau of Reclamation and Pacific Gas and Electric Company in the Shasta Division area who have 20, 25, 30 and 35 years of continuous service in the Interna- tional Brotherhood of Electrical Workers' Union. Awards were presented by Business Manager Dean Cofer, Senior Assistant Business Manager Willie R. Stewart, and Business Representative Richard Hafner. Special recognition was given to Brother Russell E. Cline, an employee at the United States Bureau of Reclamation, for his 35 years of service in the Union. Brother Cline was the only 35-year award recipient present at the Banquet. Those members eligible for awards who were unable to attend the Banquet in Redding will receive them in the mail. The members who were entitled to receive awards are listed below:

LOCAL 1245 35 Russell E. Cline I. B. E. W. Harley R. Edwards A.F. L.- C.1 0 - C L.0 John F. Muzio

30 A. M. Beebe James D. Butler Shown above from left to right are Frank Quadros, Dean Cofer and John Wilder. R. L. Cilk R. J. Congdon A. L. Fleharty During the December Staff meet- work for the Union on January 6, Orrin Heacock ing, held at the Union headquarters 1958 and reached the twenty year G. M. Kivley in Walnut Creek, surprise presenta- milestone on January 6, 1978. Busi- R. C. McKaray tions were made honoring Brothers ness Manager Cofer, in making the J. R. Moore C. C. Schultz John J. Wilder, Assistant Business presentations, stated "Brothers W. R. Vaughn Manager and Frank Quadros, Busi- Wilder and Quadros have served D. J. Wakefield ness Representative. Certificates their fellow Unionists with distinction M. E. Wright were presented to both individuals for the past twenty years, and I'm B. R. Yochum honoring them on the completion of pleased that they will remain on Staff Cecil J. Busby twenty years service on Local Union for many years to come." 1245's Staff. John and Frank came to 20 J. D. Cook N. H. Courtney John A. Eide L. D. Freemeyers 1977 Richard R. Fremming H. M. Haas International Labor Press R. E. Hill Donald Jewell Association Convention R. W. Lindemann Blake J. Massey International Labor Press Associ- speakers were: Leon Lynch, Vice S. B. Sacson ation delegates met at the Los President for Human Affairs, United B. L. Sherrod Angeles Hilton Hotel, December 4-7, Steelworkers of America; Dina G. J. V. Wright 1977. Local Union 1245's delegate to Beaumont, Vice President, Com- the convention was Managing Editor munications Workers of America; 25 of the UTILITY REPORTER Dorothy William Lucy, Secretary-Treasurer, Robert V. Emmons Fortier. American Federation of State County R. 0. Allen The convention was called to and Municipal Employees; Harry Artis D. Benton order by Temporary Chairperson Ashmore, Associate, Center for the Albert Campbell W. F. Chsitopher Kenneth Lohre, who is a member of Study of Democratic Institutions; E. M. Dollarhide Local Union 1245, Editor of the East John H. Mortimer, Senior Vice Presi- W. A. Hemphill Bay Labor Journal and the President dent, The New York Times; Albert B. E. Henderson of the Western Labor Press Associ- Shanker, President, American J. D. Hollis ation. At the convention, Ken was Federation of Teachers; Linda Tarr- Charles Katsares IMP • mlIP James Keener elected to one of the vice presiden- Whelan, Administrative Director, C. D. Ledbetter wft tial seats on the 18-member execu- New York State Department of Labor, E. H. Saunders tive council of the AFL-CIO Interna- William Winpisinger, President, In- E. F. Sybert • tional Labor Press Association. ternational Association of A host of distinguished speakers Machinists and many others. addressed the delegation of some IPLA delegates also took part in a couraging the development of state, of the Public Employees Press of 200 editors of labor publications series of workshops and roundtable regional and industrial associations AFSCME District 37 in New York, for from throughout the United States discussions on graphics, political of labor editors to promote the ex- a story on the night of a city worker and Canada. Sol C. Chaikin, Presi- writing, photos, cartooning and other pansion of the labor press at the forced to take a pay cut while infla- dent of the ILGWU, who delivered subjects. local union level. tion continues to soar. the keynote address at the conven- The convention delegates These amendments set up a V Heard a series of reports on the tion, among other topics, described unanimously passed a resolution to detailed structure for the relationship growth of the ILPA to a record level some of the problems that went into increase coverage of women's ac- between the ILPA and affiliated asso- of more than 530 union journals; his union's decision to launch a tivies, guard against the usage of ciations. They give the associations V Approved the creation of a three-year "LOOK FOR THE UNION stereotyped concepts and language voting rights at ILPA conventions for special committee to study the LABEL" singing television ad cam- in reporting about women, ethnic the first time and provide for a rebate ILPA's financial condition and report paign to improve the ILGWU image. and racial groups. Established an Ad of a portion of ILPA dues paid by to the next convention. David Sickler, an AFL-CIO field Hoc Committee to provide all editors local union publications that are also V Witnessed the presentation of representative, gave a heart-felt ap- with educational, organizational and members of affiliated associations. awards in the ILPA's 1977 Jour- peal for 100 percent support of the other information that will help to V Witnessed the presentation of nalistic contest. The California AFL- Coors beer boycott and warned that build understanding and support for the ILPA's first award in the memory CIO News won the "First Award" for right-wing forces are "stalking in the women, minorities and all workers in of Max Steinbock, who died in 1957 "general excellence" in its category Senate today" to try to defeat the general. while serving as ILPA president. His "for outstanding achievement in the AFL-CIO backed labor law reform Adopted a series of constitu- widow, Mildred, presented the award field of labor journalism." bill (S.1883). Some of the other guest tional amendments aimed at en- to Walter Balcerak, managing editor

Utility Reporter—January, 1978—Page Seven Shop Stewards' Training 1977 at a glance East Bay Stewards AFL-CIO Reports Mixed Progress met in Walnut Creek on There were high expectations at stayed within a hairsbreadth of a the start of 1977 as a new Adminis- recession-level 7 percent rate for December 3, 1977 tration and a new Congress took of- most of the year. Congress proved fice. By year's end, there had been erratic. And the Administration and measurable progress towards many Congress appeared to be just begin- of labor's goals. ning to realize the magnitude of the But there were disappointments job problems stemming from out- and frustrations also. Unemployment dated trade policies.

January March Jimmy Carter took office as the na- The House bowed to anti-union LOCAL 1245 tion's 39th President. Unemployment employer groups and defeated the I. B. E. W. was at 7.9 percent as 1976 ended. construction site picketing bill, AFL C'0 CLC The AFL-CIO called for a $30 billion 217-205. It was almost identical to program of economic stimulus to the bill Congress passed and Presi- create jobs and expressed concern dent Ford vetoed just 15 months that Carter's limited proposal would before. Labor Sec. Ray Marshall said not meet the country's immediate the bill was defeated by a "well- needs. The federation urged Con- organized campaign" motivated by gress to lift its self-imposed budget hostility to unions. ceiling so that 2 million more per- A broad-based coalition was sons could be put to work through formed to press for a fair minimum expanded jobs programs. The Oil, wage, with its first goal persuading Chemical & Atomic Workers negoti- President Carter to improve on the ated wage and benefits improve- inadequate $2.50 pay floor the Ad- ments for about 30,000 refinery ministration initially proposed. workers. Unemployment shot up to 7.5 per- People: Chester Parrish was cent, reflecting the severe winter elected secretary-treasurer of the weather and energy shortages. Postal Workers. President I. W. Abel The Supreme Court unanimously of the Steelworkers was awarded the upheld the right of the Secretary of Medal of Freedom at White House Labor to fine firms violating the ceremonies. Hatters President Alex federal job safety law. The Interna- Rose died. tional Trade Commission found that imports were seriously damaging America's color television industry, February and labor's decade-long boycott of The AFL-CIO Executive Council at the Los Angeles Herald-Examiner its mid-winter meeting called for an ended as the newspaper reached a all-out legislative effort to overhaul contract agreement with the Printing the National Labor Relations Act. & Graphic Communications Union. Reform of the federal labor law is Victor Kamber, research director of needed to give workers a "fair the Building & Construction Trades chance" to organize and bargain Dept., was named director of a collectively, the council stressed. It special AFL-CIO task force on labor also detailed the federation's law reform. policies on jobs, energy, welfare, fair trade, health programs and other April vital national issues. Severe winter While the Administration made op- weather depleted available fuel sup- timistic sounds about the pace of plies in many industrial centers economic recovery and announced across the country to force plant new goals to hold down federal shutdowns and widespread layoffs. spending to slow inflation, Meany The AFL-CIO urged Congress to im- took vigorous exception. Unemploy- pose a 100 percent "windfall profits" ment and idle industrial capacity tax on natural gas and fuel com- were as high as when President panies whose earnings shot up as a Carter took office, Meany said. "The result of the energy shortage they economy is still in serious trouble helped create. In hearings before and will not cure itself." House and Senate committees, AFL- Steelworkers reached agreement CIO President George Meany on a three-year contract covering testified that a $10 billion public 340,000 workers. It provided a wage works program would be needed to and benefit package that USWA spur the nation's economic recovery President I. W. Abel called "a good and to reduce excessive unemploy- start" toward the union's goal of ment in the construction industry. lifetime security. People: William H. McClennan, Nationwide rallies of apparel and president of the Fire Fighters, was textile workers protested job- elected to the Executive Council. destroying trade policies, and in Lloyd McBride was elected president Washington Meany joined Clothing of the Steelworkers in a union-wide & Textile Workers President Murray election to succeed retiring USWA Finley and Ladies' Garment Workers President I. W. Abel, and William W. President Sol Chaikin in a White Winpisinger was chosen to head the House meeting with President Machinists on the retirement of Floyd Carter. Earlier, an Industrial Union E. Smith. Robert F. Harbrant was ap- Dept. conference brought hundreds pointed executive director of the of delegates to Washington for a ATTEND LOCAL reactivated Food & Beverage Trades two-day conference on international Dept. Larry 'thong, retired vice presi- trade and jobs. UNION MEETINGS dent of the Farm Workers, died. (Continued on page ten)

Utility Reporter—January, 1978—Page Eight DAVEY TREE COMPANY RIDDELL, BRAD C. BARTON, MARK M. RIGGS, PAUL L. FADDIES, DANIEL M. TREVINO, ALFREDO L. FRYE, DAVID S. SCROGGINS, LOUIS W. GIBBONS. PHILIP S. WESTBY, WILLIAM M. GRAY, DEBRA A. WILLIAMS, RONALD G. HALL, DAVID L. WILWERDING, JEROLD W. LONG, ROBERT T. WINSHIP, RONALD J. OLIVAS, LUIS H. OSADA, RICHARD J. PACIFIC TREE COMPANY POLO, RICHARD 0. CIARAMELLA, DANIEL M. RICHARDSON, ZEKE A. ROPER, JOE P.

Outside Construction Hot Line

By John Wilder Pension contribution refund checks will be mailed in March or April of 1978. * * * Wemierd The Bureau of Land Management denied Sierra Pacific Power Company's permit to start work on the 230 KV Transmission Line in Nevada. The Bureau is causing indefinite delays and unnecessary added expenses to company, taxpayers and consumers. All readers of the Applications for membership were received from the persons listed below UTILITY REPORTER are urged to personally contact their senator, congressman and as- November 24, 1977 through December 15, 1977: semblyman to express objections to the delays caused by the Bureau of Land Management. The Bureau refuses to issue the necessary permits to start the work becuase a "planned SAN JOAQUIN DIVISION CITY OF REDDING wilderness area" is located in the middle of the prospective work site. * * * AUDRAIN, NANCY M. HAGEN, RAYMOND J. MIRALLES, LARRY J. Environmental issues are still holding up work in the Oregon area. CORDOZA, JOAN E. * * * DRUM DIVISION MERCED IRRIGATION DISTRICT A Labor-Management meeting is scheduled for January 24, 1978 between Local Union GOODSON, TIMMIE W. THURN, THOMAS A. TINKER, THOMAS F. 1245 and Western Line Constructors, NECA to discuss the dispute between Overhead COAST VALLEY DIVISION SAND, DENISE E. Electric and Local 401, IBEW. If the problems between Overhead Electric and Local 401 are not resolved, the job will be shut down as provided under the mutual assistance clause of AMARO, JESUS R. NORTH BAY DIVISION ARNOLD, PHILLIPS B. the Outside Line Construction Ageement. FECHTER, RICHARD G. * * * LUNA, BENJAMIN L. HAGLER, MARSHA L. The work at New Melones is shut down for reengineering. It should be resumed in a cou- TELEPROMPTER OF SANTA MARIA LOANE, JOHN A. JR. ple of weeks. NOEL, GARY D. DEROSA, JOAN J. Local 1245 has six men working at Slater Electric in the Sacramento area. SHER, BROOKE S. * * * PIPE LINE OPERATIONS THOMPSON, MARSHALL D. CHAVEZ, JACOB J. The job for the City of Roseville has not started yet. It is being held up because of POPE, BILL C. SACRAMENTO DIVISION unavailability of necessary work materials. CASTRO, MIKE J. * * * SAN JOSE DIVISION GALLES, RANDY W. DABANIAN, SUSAN M. LEVESQUE, LINDA Price Electric has completed the Richmond job. Crews are working in Alameda and Union FISHER, EDWARD D. RAMIREZ, THOMAS J. City. * * * GARCIA, TERESA SAUER, TANYA B. MOTT, ROBERT L. CITIZENS UTILITIES COMPANY In Telephone Construction, there are approximately twenty men working for Com-Con-Ex PANIGHETTI, IRENE E. BEAR, SUSAN A. and Hinkel and McCoy on the properties of Citizens Utilities Company. * * * SALCIDO, DONNA M. BRITTON, LINDA A. SMITH STEPHEN J. CASSELL, CLEO J. Bidding should open in March for the electrical work at the Geysers. VICTOR, DAVE H. MURRAY, CAROL D. WATSON, CAROL A. PERKINS, MICHAEL D. TELEPROMPTER OF SANTA CRUZ SELL, DOUGLAS H. DELGADO, FRANK T. SIMONS, VIVIAN FREE, PATTY SMITH, COLLETTE M. FRIEL, PATRICIA D. WALLS, SANDRA J. Nevada News SNOW, DENA V. GENERAL CONSTRUCTION ALEXANDER, CURTIS A. By John Wilder EAST BAY DIVISION ALVAREZ, ALFREDO S. "HOW TO WITH PETE", a 13-week series of 30-minute how to do it yourself programs will begin BOLL, BRENDA J. APODACA, JOHNNY JR. showing Friday, January 20, 1978 at 7:00 p.m. on Reno's KCRL television channel four. The pro- BOND, EDWARD V. BAXTER, RANDY E. grams sponsored by Sierra Pacific Power Company, will range from how to insulate your attic to BURDETTE, BRUCE G. BICE, TOD E. how to make aluminum frame storm windows. CARRANCHO, ANNA M. CALLAN, MICHAEL R. JR. There will be a California Public Utilities Commission hearing on January 31, 1978 in San Fran- CHEW, DEBRA J. CLEVELAND, ERNEST cisco. The subject of the hearing will be "employee-discounts" for Sierra Pacific Power Company COLARICH, CAROLYN DERENIA, KATHERINE M. employees working or living in California. Assistant Business Manager John J. Wilder and Busi- DOTY, THOMAS E. DOTY, JACK C. ness Representative John Stralla will attend with Local Union 1245's attorney handling the case EDWARDS, JOHN W. EDWARDS, FRANCIS J. Jerry Garchik. HOFFMAN, JACK R. HOEFER, RONALD E. Grass Valley Unit, No. 3513, donated $50 to the Nevada County Community Workshop. The unit GARCIA, VICTOR JR. HOFFMAN, JAMES M. won the $50 last year in a Local 1245 monthly unit drawing. Unit Chairman Bill Webber presented GRIJALVA, NANCY HRIMNAK, MITHCHELL the donation to Peter Michael of the Nevada organization. GRILHO, DOMINGO INGRAM, JOHN M. RCA Governmental Services Division: The National Labor Relations Board upheld Local 1245's GUTIERREZ, BENNY JACOBS, ROBERT L. election procedures protest. Therefore, Local 1245 will be the certified representative of the MARTTILA, LILLIAN JOHNSON, RAY employees we petitioned to represent. MITCHELL, JAMES W. KEENER, DAVID D. OCAMPO, JULIE R. KING, RAY S. OLIVER, ORRIN B. LEMONS, JUSTIN D. PARMENTER, WILLIAM LOEWEN, JAMES E. SAN FRANCISCO DIVISION LUCKEN, DOUGLAS J. The Nation Suffers a Great Loss CHAN, JOHN W. McCALL, DAVID J. KAMP, PHILIP P. McCREA, DAVID E. Senator Hubert H. Humphrey died, used routinely in union correspon- LATHORP, GRAY M. MARTIN, DAVID A. after a long battle against inoperable dence, it expresses a special feeling MACALUSO, STEPHEN MAYSEY, JEFFREY B. cancer, at his home near Minneapolis when directed to you. For you have McLEOD, MARK E. MENKE, GEORGE R. on Friday. January 13, 1978. been a Brother to those who have REY, ROBERT T. MICHAEL, JOHN E. The Nation's leaders eulogized labored for the rights of working peo- ROOKE, JAMES B. MOHLER, DAVID J. Humphrey as one of those rare men in ple, and to all who have fought for the GENERAL OFFICE MOORE, BOBBY J. history who will be remembered as an cause of human dignity. ACOSTA, CONNIE D. NIELSEN, PHILIP A. idealist in the purest sense. The memo- You are respected and held in the ALMENDRAL, ROXANNE PENROSE, JAMES E. ry of his character, compassion, highest esteem by: elderly citizens who DAILEY, PAUL L. RILEY, BRUCE R. dedication, enthusiasm and ability to can now be assured of adequate medi- HALL, ELIZABETH A. ROMANKIW, JOHN G. command the respect and affection of cal care after incomes have declined; McCONNELL, SHERRILL D. SARTAIN, THOMAS his political opponents and allies alike minority Americans who can now live SCHAEFER, GREGG A. will never be forgotten. where they wish and work where they SACRAMENTO REGIONAL TRANSIT SHAW, RUSSELL A. Sensing the end was near and wish- are qualified: third world children who CRESCI, DAMIEN J. SKAGGS, JOHN S. ing to convey a message of love and are literate and fed thanks to Peace DORAN, KENNETH SISNEROS, RUDOLPH P. appreciation to Hubert Humphrey, Bus- Corp volunteers; and to everyone who SHASTA DIVISION TANKERSLEY, STEPHEN A. iness Manager Dean Cofer sent him the is safer in a world with fewer nuclear CARPENTER, GARY A. TOMLINSON, ERVIN C. following message before he passed weapons. DE SABLA DIVISION VAN DER LINDEN, RICHARD J. away: You are a citizen of the highest cali- ORNER, HAROLD D. VAN METER, DENNIS J. ber. On behalf of the 17,000 plus mem- PARKER, GLENDA R. VILLA, JOHN M. "Dear Sir and Brother: bers of Local Union 1245, I extend our PARKER, ROBERT D. WORSTEIN, DAVID A. Although the above salutation is heartfelt admiration and appreciation." POLIQUIN, DAVID J. YOUNG, ROBERT

Utility Reporter—January, 1978—Page Nine 1977 at a glance - mixed progress

(Continued from page eight) People: The Ladies' Garment September November Workers elected Shelley Appleton to Hubert Humphrey, from a Min- President Carter's decision to car- nesota hospital, sent word he would People: President Carter ap- the reconstituted post of secretary- ry out U.S. withdrawal from the Inter- be "honored" to accept the chair- pointed John H. Fanning chairman of treasurer. Frank Casale was elected national Labor Organization was manship of Americans for Justice on the National Labor Relations Board, president of the Leather Goods, firmly supported by the AFL-CIO. "If the Job, the coalition formed to sup- on which he has served for 20 years, Plastics & Novelty Workers to suc- and when" the ILO returns to its prin- port labor law reform. At House hear- and named Wayne L. Horvitz director ceed Benjamin Feldman. ciples, Meany said, the United States ings on the bill, Meany called on should return to the ILO. of the Federal Mediation & Concilia- July Congress to "take the profit out of tion Service. Deaths included John The AFL-CIO welcomed legis- Union-sought mine safety legis- violating employee rights." A U.S. Sessions, assistant AFL-CIO educa- lation proposed to Congress by lation was signed into law, Court of Appeals in New York de- tion director, and former Steel- President Carter that would reform strengthening protections and shift- nounced J. P. Stevens and cited the workers Vice President Joseph P. federal labor law. Carter also ing enforcement from the Interior firm for contempt of previous court Malony. pledged support for a substantially Dept. to the Labor Dept. Boeing improved minimum wage bill. The orders. Leaders of textile and gar- workers ratified strike settlement Boot & Shoe Workers voted to merge ment unions on four continents covering 24,000 workers in eight May with the Retail Clerks and the RCIU pledged support to Stevens workers states. Steelworkers negotiated and Consumer prices rose sharply for approved the merger plan by forming in their battle to organize. ratified can industry contracts for the fourth consecutive month. BLS a shoe division within the 700,000- The House voted a three-step in- 30,000 workers. reported, while the real take-home member union. A coalition of 23 crease in the minimum wage after re- The Administration and full pay of workers dropped for the sec- unions won new agreements with jecting the permanent index to facto- employment groups agreed on sup- ond month in a row. The nation's four of the nation's six major copper ry wages sought by the minimum port of a new Humphrey-Hawkins bill unemployment rate edged wage coalition and the Administra- that Meany said would be a vital first downslightly from 7.3 percent to 7 producers covering 35,000 workers. After a slight two-month decline, the tion. The President approved a 7 per- step to putting America back to percent. The AFL-CIO Executive nation's unemployment rate climbed cent comparability raise for salaried work. Council at its spring meeting ex- to 7.1 percent. The House passed a federal employees and the military. The Industrial Union Dept. con- pressed deep concern over the labor-backed mine safety bill. Congress passed a bill to protect vention focused on organizing in the Carter Administration's lack of People: John F. O'Malley was ap- consumers against harassment tac- South, and the Building & Construc- emphasis on a needed economic tics of debt collectors. Unemploy- tion Trades Dept. backed up plans stimulus program. But the federation pointed AFL-CIO regional director for the New England states to suc- ment climbed back above 7 percent. for a new organizing division with a firmly endorsed the President's pro- ceed retiring Franklin J. Murphy. People: James T. Housewright per capita rise to fund it. posals to strengthen the social President Kenneth T. Blaylock of the died. He was an AFL-CIO vice presi- People: Jacob Clayman was security financing system and urged Government Employees was elected dent and president of the Food & elected president and secretary- Congress to move quickly on the treasurer of the AFL-CIO Public Beverage Trades Dept. as well as treasurer of the Industrial Union measures. The Senate approved a Employee Dept. Angelo LoVecchio president of the Retail Clerks. Dept. as I. W. Abel stepped down. labor-backed food stamp reform pro- was elected president of the Plate William H. Wynn succeeded him as Joseph P. McCurdy, former presi- gram, rejecting all efforts by conser- Printers. president of the Retail Clerks, and dent of the United Garment Workers, vatives to disqualify families of August Thomas G. Whaley moved up to sec- died. strikers from benefits. The Occupa- retary-treasurer. Clayton W. Bilder- tional Safety & Health Administration House hearings on labor law reform legislation shifted to Roanoke back, retired secretary-treasurer of issued an emergency temporary Rapids, N.C., where workers of J. P. the Metal Trades Dept., died. December standard to reduce worker exposure The AFL-CIO's 12th Convention to benzene. Stevens & Co. described how the October company continues to harass them The House passed the labor law shaped a program designed to People: J. C. Turner, president of achieve full employment and social the Operating Engineers, was through firings and intimidation reform bill, 257 - 163, after rejecting a despite numerous NLRB orders and series of anti-union amendments. justice at home and pledged con- elected to the AFL-CIO Executive tinuing support for the cause of Council, following the resignation of court rulings directing the giant tex- Congress completed action on the tile firm to halt the illegal labor prac- minimum wage bill, providing a four- human rights and freedom Hunter P. Wharton, president- throughout the world. Its policy emeritus of the IUOE. Alfred C. Mon- tices. The AFL-CIO Executive Coun- step raise to $3.35 an hour by 1981. It cil pressed labor's fight for full was a significant improvement over resolutions included a stern warning toya was named executive director of employment, just labor laws, and a the version the House had passed. that the American economy cannot the Labor Council for Latin American afford the steady drain of jobs and in- Advancement, succeeding Paul fair minimum wage. The council also A labor-sought goal of reserving a gave unanimous support to the share of oil imports for American- dustry lost to low-wage countries. Montemayor. Emmet Andrews Delegates gave warm applause to became president of the Postal Panama Canal treaties. The Com- flag tankers was scuttled by the munications Workers and the Inter- House on a 257-165 vote. Ironically, an array of prominent speakers and a Workers, succeeding Francis S. tumultous welcome to an old friend Filbey, who died May 17. national Brotherhood of Electrical an even stronger bill had easily Workers negotiated new agreements passed the House in 1974 only to be who spoke by telephone hookup — with American Telephone & killed by President Ford's pocket Hubert Humphrey. And they came to June Telegraph providing wage and veto. their feet cheering in the historic The House voted 244-164 to benefit increases of more than 30 At Senate hearings, AFL-CIO Sec.- moment when the leaders of the amend the Hatch Act to allow 2.8 percent over three years. The AT&T Treas. Lane Kirkland urged ratifica- Egyptian and Israeli trade union million federal and postal workers to agreements cover more than a half- tion of the Panama Canal treaties. federations appeared together on the take an active role in politics. The million workers. The Carpenters and The House voted to bolster social platform, hands clasped aloft. In measure is still before the Senate. In the Woodworkers also won im- security financing. another highlight, they heard Meany a series of decisions, the Supreme pressive contract gains for more The Machinists struck Boeing and read the speech that Nobel Peace Court upheld seniority rights negoti- than 70,000 wood products workers. Lockheed. Steelworkers called on Prize winner Andrei Sakharov would ated by unions as being non- People: The Executive Council the Carter Administration for have delivered to the convention — if discriminatory. The BLS reported elected three new members — Lloyd "emergency actions" to counter the Soviet authorities had allowed him that 20.4 million workers were McBride, president of the Steel- "unfair advantage" foreign steel im- and other human rights leaders to unemployed at one time or another workers; David J. Fitzmaurice, presi- ports have in the U.S. come. People: The AFL-CIO convention during 1976, including 2.9 million dent of the Electrical, Radio & People: Railroad Signalmen Presi- who did not work at all because they Machine Workers, and Kenneth T. dent Charles J. Chamberlain, also re-elected Meany and Kirkland by could not find jobs. Federation Sec.- Blaylock, president of the Govern- chairman of Railway Labor Execu- acclamation and chose five new vice Treas. Lane Kirkland warned the na- ment Employees. L. A. Holley was tives' Association, was named labor presidents — Emmet Andrews of the tion is witnessing a new kind of elected president of the Aluminum member of the Railroad Retirement Postal Workers; Alvin E. Heaps of the Retail, Wholesale & Dept. Store segregation between presons who Workers to succeed retiring Vernon Board. The AFL-CIO announced have jobs and those who are E. Kelley. The United Garment sponsorship of an 11-city speaking Union; Harry R. Poole of the Meat Cutters; William W. Winpisinger of unemployed. The Clothing & Textile Workers elected William O'Donnell tour by exiled Soviet dissident the Machinists and William H. Wynn Workers negotiated substantial as president and Milan 0. Stone was Vladimir Bukovsky. Daniel E. Con- of the Retail Clerks. Louis Stulberg, wage and benefit improvements in a elected vice president of the Rubber way, president of the Bakers, heads new 40-month contract covering Workers. Thomas F. Plicastro, presi- Food & Beverage Trades Dept.; former president of the Ladies' Gar- 80,000 in the men's and boys' ap- dent of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO Robert F. Harbrant named secretary- ment Workers, died. parel industry. since its inception, died. treasurer. —AFL-CIO NEWS

Utility Reporter—January, 1978—Page Ten

Hell Hurt YOU At The Bargaining Table classification of Tree Trimmer was BARGAINING ROUNDUP established at a hourly pay rate of $8.60 for those employees desig- IN NEGOTIATIONS Bargaining is in progress with the following employers: California-Pacific Utilities Company nated as being in charge of an aerial (Lassen Division), Lindmore Irrigation District, Nevada Power Company, Orange Cove Irrigation lift truck team in the Tree Division. District, Richvale Irrigation District, Sierra Pacific Power Company (Water and Power Production Several new range and classifica- IT5 Department Interim Negotiations), Teleprompter of Los Gatos, Tri-Dam Project, USBR, Region 2, tions changes were also made in the Wells REA, Yuba County Water Agency and Bay Cablevision. TIME YOU CARRIED new agreement. PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY YOUR OWN WEIG4-11.1 Effective July 1, 1978, the District CLERICAL JOB GRADING/WAGE RESTRUCTURING will pay 80% of the basic health plan Local 1245's Clerical Job Grading/Wage Restructuring Committee met with Pacific Gas and premium costs in the Kaiser and Electric Company on January 19, 1978. The Committee presented its proposal to restructure the classifications and wages of clerical positions in the bargaining unit. The proposals will have sig- MONEY Plans and 80% of any pre- nificant effects on the current dilemma, as reported in the November issue of the UTILITY RE- mium increase in these plans PORTER. It is expected that Company will respond to Union's proposal at the conclusion of their through December 31, 1978. The new analysis. Future meetings will be scheduled. agreement also provides a 5-day per- SETTLED sonal leave bonus on the 28th and The results of contract negotiations between Local 1245 and Merced Irrigation District, Placer S.M.U.D. Settlement 33rd anniversary date of regular County Water Agency and the Nevada Irrigation District have been ratified by the membership by Hank Lucas employees in addition to the 5-day employed at each of the properties. bonus credited on every 5th anniver- PACIFIC TREE EXPERT COMPANY Local 1245 members employed by sary date and the 17th and the 23rd Local Union 1245 members employed by Pacific Tree Expert Company voted to accept the the Sacramento Municipal Utility anniversary dates. It will be ad- results of negotiations on January 16, 1978. Contract improvements included a 7% general wage District S.M.U.D. ratified the results ministered in the same manner. increase and other amendments. The new agreement is for a one year term. of 1978 contract negotiations bet- Under terms of the new contract, CITY ROSEVILLE ween S.M.U.D. and Local 1245 in the Union may appoint one member The results of contract negotiations between Local 1245 and the City of Roseville were ratified December. to the safety inspection team. It ex- January 11, 1978. Contract improvements included a 6.7% general wage increase, and a one-half step range movement that generated an additional 2-1/2% increase. The new contract contains many tended the optional grievance pro- improvements in wages, fringe cedure and the rest period provi- benefits and working conditions. sions, and amended several S.M.U.D. Effective January 1, 1978, all department policies. Disability Insurance Revisions bargaining unit employees received Union's S.M.U.D. negotiating com- a 7.5% wage increase. This brings mittee members were Russ Conroy, California workers who suffer off-job illnesses or injuries in 1978 will benefit the journeyman lineman rate to $9.79 Bill Paynter, Ed Hepfinger, Gerry from legislative changes affecting the Disability Insurance program. per hour. Shift premium was in- Funk, Gene Curry and Business Weekly benefit amounts will be greater. For disabilities beginning on or after creased from 200 to 250 for the sec- Representative Hank Lucas. January 1, 1978, the maximum benefit payable under the employee-financed ond shift and from 250 to 300 per The Union's negotiating commit- program will increase from $119 a week to as much as $146 a week to those hour for the third shift. Hydro Opera- tee reported that this set of bargain- paying the highest premiums, persons earning $3525 or more per quarter. The tors were granted an inequity adjust- ing was conducted in a very profes- minimum benefits will go from $25 to $30 a week. ment from $8.82 per hour to $9.79 per sional and business-like manner and Worker contributions will remain at one percent of earnings up to $11,400 hour. Building Maintenance urges that all members of Local 1245 each year. However, employers or self-employed persons who elect coverage Mechanic's and Maintenance Car- employed by SMUD point out to non- will be taxed at 1.72 percent during 1978. penter's salaries were adjusted from members the gains made by Local In another change, hospital benefits will be abolished for disabilities com- $8.20 per hour to $8.90 per hour. Hy- 1245 through the years, and sign mencing on or after January 1, 1979, but other provisions under the new laws droelectric Operator Subfore- them up. will serve to outweigh this loss. The waiver of the seven-day waiting period is man/woman attained parity with There is strength in brotherhood retained, for example, when claimants in hospitals apply for regular DI benefits. Hydro Electric Subforeman/woman and unity. Let's bring a more united Other legislative changes will: classifications. Thus, increasing membership to the bargaining table • extend coverage to persons who become operational on July 1, their pay rate to $10.42. The new next year. perform work at home; claims 1978; based on such wages as payable • permit specified licensed psy- starting August 1, 1978; chologists to complete the doc- • provide that tips in excess of $20 tor's certificate for claimants; Smile a month are wages for DI pur- • allow a spouse to file claims The following captions are excerpts before. I was unable to stop in time to poses; claims based on these when the disabled individual is from various accident reports obtained avoid the accident. wages are payable starting mentally incapable of doing so; from a local insurance agency: To avoid hitting the bumper of the August 1, 1978; • expand the definition of dis- I collided with a stationary truck car in front, I struck the pedestrian. coming the other way. My car was legally parked as it back- • provide a temporary system for ability to allow DI payments to A truck backed through my ed into the other vehicle. paying benefits to ex-offenders persons who receive written or- windshield into my wife's face. An invisible car came out of based on certain work or voca- ders from health officers forbid- A pedestrian hit me and went under nowhere, struck my vehicle and tional training accomplished ding them to work, such as food my car. vanished. The guy was all over the road, I had I told the police that I was not in- while in state correctional workers with communicable dis- to swerve a number of times before I hit jured, but on removing my hat, I found facilities; this program is to eases. him. that I had a fractured skull. I pulled away from the side of the I was sure the old fellow would never California's disability insurance program began in 1946 and has changed to road, glanced at my Mother-in-law, and make it to the other side of the roadway adapt to changing conditions over the years. headed over the embankment. when I struck him. Since January 1, 1977, women workers with disabilities arising from normal In my attempt to kill a fly, I drove into The pedestrian had no idea which pregnancies, can claim benefits for up to three weeks before the estimated a telephone pole. direction to go, so I ran over him. delivery date and for a maximum of three weeks immediately after delivery. I had been shopping for plants all I saw the slow-moving sad-faced old day, and was on my way home. As I gentleman as he bounced off the hood Although more than 100,000 of these claims were expected during the first reached an intersection a hedge of my car. year of the program, preliminary estimates indicate that only about 41,000 sprang up obscuring my vision. I did The indirect cause of this accident claims were filed in 1977 for disabilities of normal pregnancy. not see the other car. was a little guy in a small car with a big During each month of 1977, more than $30 million was paid to claimants for I have been driving my car for forty- mouth. years when I fell asleep at the wheel I was thrown from my car as it left the all disabilities, including normal and abnormal pregnancies, for a total of and had the accident. road. I was later found in a ditch by $390,129,687 through November 30, 1977. I was on my way to the doctor's office some stray cows. with rear end trouble when my univer- The telephone pole was approaching sal joint gave way, causing me to have fast. I was attempting to swerve out of an accident. its path when it struck my front end. IMPORTANT NOTICE As I approached the intersection, a I was unable to stop in time and my stop sign suddenly appeared in a place car crashed into the other vehicle. Advisory Council Meeting Schedule where no stop sign had ever appeared

February 4 and 5, 1978 — Bakersfield May 6 and 7, 1978 — Coast Valley E. Board Mailing List August 5 and 6, 1978 — Nevada (Tahoe or Reno) Members of Local Union 1245 ing the desire in writing. All re- who wish to receive the Execu- quests will expire each Janu- All members are urged to attend Advisory Council meetings when tive Board Report may have the possible, and we especially wish to encourage those members living in ary, and renewals must be the Bakersfield area to attend the meeting in February. Report mailed to their homes received in writing. on a monthly basis by express-

Utility Reporter—January, 1978—Page Eleven galekt c3Ceite Editor's Note: Assistant Business Manager Tony Morgado, assigned to direct will appear at the conclusion of the article. If you have any suggestions for ar- the Local's activities in the areas of Safety, Apprenticeship and Training, is ticles that relate to safety. they should be sent to the Local Union headquar- responsible for all items appearing in the Safety Scene. He prepares most of ters marked Attention: Tony Morgado. the articles, and when we use material from other publications, a credit line

NOW WE CAN DO A BE11 ER JOB OF EXPOSING SAFE-TY NAZARDS WHAT QUALIFICATION MEANS TO THAT THREATEN OUR MEMBERS! KAISER/PERMANENTE Kaiser/Permanente qualification Kaiser/Permanente service area, the as a Federally approved Health group may be required to offer Maintenance Organization has im- another qualified group practice portance to existing and prospec- HMO to those employees. tive groups throughout the areas • A Federally qualified HMO must served by the various offer the entire mandated benefits Kaiser/Permanente regions: package to everyone contracting • New groups joining the Health with the HMO. Therefore, at the end Plan after December 1 will have to of the three year phase in period, all take the full-range of benefits man- Health Plan members will have a dated by the HMO Act. Most of these benefits program that includes at benefits are already included in all least all of the Federally mandated Health Plan coverages. The excep- benefits. tions are short-term outpatient men- • Kaiser/Permanente can, when tal health services and treatment for and where appropriate, require that alcoholism or drug abuse. Both of employers offer the Health Plan or these were previously offered only as another qualified group practice add-on options. HMO option if there are 25 or more • Existing groups not having the employees in our service area. Our mental health and alcoholism and first obligation, however, is to take drug abuse benefits will have to add care of existing members. Health 17Z _f them to their group's Health Plan Plan's enrollment policies will con- RE.rpag coverage within the next three years. tinue to be closely coordinated with • All groups offering the Health The Permanente Medical Group. Our Plan to their employees now fulfill enrollment will not exceed our ability the Federal requirement (under sec- to meet the medical needs of our tion 1310 of the HMO Act) to offer a membership. California qualified group practice HMO. If a Health Plan Representatives will group has 25 or more employees in contact groups to discuss the im- OSHA Conference in Emeryville one area outside the plications of HMO qualification. Local 1245 Staff members Jim Mc- occupational health education. In- Cauley, Larry Hope, Roger Stalcup, struction was given on filing com- NEW SAFETY PROGRAM Rich Hafner, Dave Rossi, Arlie Baker plaints, handling of health inspec- REQUIREMENT Local 1245 and Dorothy Fortier attended a con- tions the citation and appeals pro- An important new safety standard, ference on occupational health cess within the OSHA System, and General Industry Safety Order 3203, Safety Committee sponsored by the California Occupa- rights and responsibilities of has been adopted by the California Oc- cupational Safety and Health The Local Union Safety Committee tional Safety and Health Program employees under the law. Standards Board in Sacramento. (Cal/OSHA) Wednesday and Thurs- Guest speakers addressing the This order became effective Octo- is made up of rank and file members day, November 30 through Decem- delegates included: Donald Vial, ber 1,1977 and reads as follows: from P.G.& E. and Sierra Pacific ber 1, at the Emeryville Holiday Inn Director of the Department of In- 3203. Accident Prevention Program Power Company. The members are: (a) Every employer shall inaugurate Chairman, Marvin Rubendall, G.C. Conference Center. dustrial Relations; Art Carter, Chief, and maintain an accident pre- The Conference covered a variety Division of Industrial Safety; Tom vention program which shall in- Equipment Mechanic, Davis; James of occupational health issues of con- Bates, State Assemblyman, District clude but not be limited to the Schneider, Lineman from Hollister; cern to labor, management, local 12; and many others. Some of the following: Dale Rogers, Radiation Monitor from health departments and other related high priority discussion items at the (1) A training program Diablo Canyon; and Jimmie Bender, designed to instruct Lineman from Sierra Pacific. organizations. During the two-day conference were the importance of employees in general conference, a series of workshops on-the-job health and safety pro- safe work practices plus The purpose of the Committee is to and discussions were held on oc- grams, joint labor/management specific instruction with review all accident and potential cupational health, occupational car- efforts in occupational health, and regard to hazards unique hazard reports, and make sugges- to any job assignment. cinogens, health and safety on the health and safety clauses included in tions and recommendations in an at- (2) Scheduled periodic inspec- tempt to prevent the same type of ac- job, occupational medical care and union/management contracts. tions to identify and correct any unsafe conditions and cidents from reoccurring. Along with TOPS IN PROTECTION! work practices which may this task the Committee has also UPDATE ON THE CONDITION OF be found. been asked by the Business Man- THE EMPLOYEE INJURED IN THE ager's office to assist in the formula- SAN FRANCISCO GAS tion of a Safety Training Program EXPLOSION Member Injured that will be used in conjunction with Brother Joseph Lopez has Shop Steward Training programs in returned to work on Light Duty. On January 9, 1978 Brother Bill an effort to better inform our mem- Brother Paul Valdez is recuperat- Anderson, an Electrician in the bers in the area of safety and acci- ing at home. It is still not known Substation Department in East Bay dent prevention. when he will be able to return to Division, received burns on his face, If you have any questions and/or work. head, neck, chest and arms. Brother suggestions regarding items the Crew Foreman Angelo Dappolonis Anderson was working on a D.C. rec- Committee should work on please is also recuperating at his home and tifier when the accident occurred. He send them to the Local Union, P. 0. when he will be able to return to work was taken to Alta Bates Hospital in Box 4790, Walnut Creek, California is still uncertain. Berkeley. 94595, attention Tony Morgado.

Utility Reporter—January, 1978—Page Twelve