Stronger Voice

Union members have a voice in determining what they want in terms of wages, hours and working conditions.  Contract negotiations are at the core of labor movement.  They occur when employees join together to negotiate workplace issues with their employer.  The end result is a contract that spells out in black and white all of the terms both parties agree to, from pay rates and benefits, to a grievance procedure, time off and more. 

Union members generally elect a bargaining team made up of a few of their coworkers to join expert negotiators from the Teamsters Local 120 in negotiations with management.  Once the bargaining team reaches a tentative agreement with management, they present the proposal to their coworkers for a vote.  This is called the ratification process.  The contract only goes into effect if a majority of the employees approve the tentative agreement.

Contract specifics will vary from one worksite, or employer, to the next, but generally include provisions on:

• Wages, hours and benefits;
• Health and safety;
• Non-discrimination;
• Contract length;
• Discipline;
• Seniority;
• Union security;
• Grievance procedures; and
• Arbitration.

In non-union worksites, management alone dictates the terms and conditions of employment.  No discussion.  No negotiation.  Decisions are simply made without regard to the employees who must bear the consequences.