FAQ

Why do we need to form a union? Aren’t there other ways to address our grievances?
Forming a union is the only way workers can negotiate a legally binding contract with management that spells out our rights and our working conditions. Without such a contract, employers can set any conditions of employment they want, can change our pay, benefits and schedules without our input, and terminate us at any time for any reason.

What is “just cause” and why is it important?
Most workers are “at will” employees, who can be fired for any reason, at any time and without notice. “Just cause” provisions — which are a cornerstone of NewsGuild contracts — require management to have a legitimate reason for firing or disciplining employees and grant employees due process, a procedure for challenging charges against them.

Can I get fired or penalized for helping to organize a union, signing a union card, or voting “yes” in an election?
No, under the National Labor Relations Act, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against workers for forming a union. 

How does the process work? 
We will inform Clean Water Action and Clean Water Fund of our intent to unionize and will ask for voluntary recognition of our bargaining unit. If the company declines to recognize our union, an election will be held. All eligible union members will vote in the election conducted by the National Labor Relations Board. Our union will be certified by the board through voting results that reflect the majority of support.

What happens after the union is formed?
Once the union is “recognized” – either voluntarily by management or through an election supervised by the National Labor Relations Board – union members advance our goals by building democratic structures – electing unit officers,  establishing a bargaining committee, and creating a shop steward network.
Bargaining committees oversee contract negotiations with management. They are made up of members from the unit and experienced NewsGuild staff, and get assistance from Guild attorneys. Prior to the start of negotiations, bargaining committees send surveys to union members to ascertain priorities and keep members informed of developments. Once the bargaining committee and management reach a tentative agreement on a contract, employees vote to accept or reject it. If a majority votes to ratify the contract, it takes effect.
Shop stewards communicate with members, ensure members’ rights are respected, and organize Guild activities in support of bargaining and other issues of concern to members. A strong steward network ensures a strong workplace!

How long will it take to negotiate a contract?
Negotiations take time. It’s not uncommon for negotiations for a first contract to last a year or more. But when workers are unified and active, a strong contract can be completed within a reasonable period.
In the meantime, once the union is certified, workers enjoy “status quo protections.” All current working conditions must be maintained, and any changes must be negotiated until union members ratify a first contract, which establishes the new “status quo.”
 

What are NewsGuild membership dues, and when will I start paying them?
Membership dues are 1.659 percent of base pay and are not collected until a first contract is negotiated and ratified by union members. Dues cover the costs associated with contract negotiations, research, legal expenses, organizing and other costs.