In preparation for the commencement of bargaining
for the next fiscal year and legislative session, your organizations
have placed six national Union representatives in the field in order to
ascertain our bargaining units’ collective bargaining and legislative
priorities. Currently, three staff are working the Tallahassee area and
three are assigned to South Florida.
Obviously wage increases, protection of health benefits and, for a large
number of folks at our correctional and forensic facilities, “special
risk” retirement, will continue to be primary priorities. However, it is
just as important to establish from the bargaining unit members, what
else they would like addressed. Keep in mind that collective bargaining
and legislation are, in many cases, a parallel track.
Our field representatives will be attempting to meet with members and
non-members alike. It goes without saying that when they talk to
non-members, it is important that they explain the benefits and the
importance of being a member of their respective union. Additionally,
they will request non-members’ rationale for not joining with his or her
colleagues.
Strength in numbers is the name of the game. If you want change, we must
all stand together and fight for the justice we all deserve. That means
through collective and concerted action, legislative political action
and the court. A recent ruling by Circuit Judge John Cooper was
importance for all public employees, and if the decision stands,
Amendment 5 will not be on the ballot and many jobs will be saved.
Litigation is expensive, but essential, and that is what membership
building is all about.
In any event, over the next several months you may be contacted by one
of our field representatives. Please speak openly and honestly. And
don’t “cop out!” A bigger and better Union is up to you.
Join now! The benefits, if used, will surely outweigh the cost of the
dues.
