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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

IN airport security contract boosts workplace rights

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Thursday, May 30, 2024   

The power of unions in America is growing as members are less hesitant to strike for fair workplace policies and livable wages.

One union's collective bargaining process led to the creation of a historic seven-year contract in Indiana. The American Federation of Government Employees Local 618 represents transportation security officers at five Indiana airports.

Kevin Smith, president of Local 618, said the contract boosted the rules of operation from 15 to 37.

"The biggest factor behind this new contract was basically the need for better rights and protections for all of our officers," Smith explained. "Our last contract was very limited to what we couldn't negotiate and it placed a lot of things in the hands of the agency that wasn't always in the officers' best interests."

The revised contract terms outline protection from unfair discipline, new uniform rights, better leave conditions and bargaining input for local issues, among other things. The union represents officers at airports in Indianapolis, South Bend, Evansville, and Fort Wayne. Lafayette's airport recently completed the process for using federal agents at security checkpoints and baggage sites, and for workforce screening.

In August 1981, thousands of air traffic controllers illegally walked off the job over wage disputes and working conditions. President Ronald Reagan fired the protesters and replacements were brought in. And although it is against the law for transportation security officers to strike, Smith noted the union is eyeing action to give their members the same rights as other federal workers.

"We have gotten what we called mirrored Title Five rights," Smith pointed out. "But we are nowhere near close to having the same rights as the rest of the federal government workers and different agencies have. So that will be our next fight to try to get that happening. "

House Resolution 8370, or "Rights for the TSA Workplace Act" was reintroduced this month with the endorsement of American Federation of Government Employees TSA Council 100 President Hydrick Thomas. The measure was drafted to make officers' rights a law and to ensure it can't be changed by future administrations.

Disclosure: The American Federation of Government Employees contributes to our fund for reporting on Budget Policy and Priorities, Livable Wages/Working Families, and Social Justice. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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