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OCT 22 - 2011 It has been a long difficult fight for the past 10 years. Since the inception of May 5, 2011 April 25, 2011 Obama Rips Apart Right Wing’s 2012 Budget Proposal: President Barack Obama on Wednesday rebuked the right wing’s plan to extend huge tax cuts to millionaires and billionaires while charging seniors thousands of dollars more for their health insurance. Speaking at George Washington University, President Obama began by reminding people what’s causing the deficit: two wars, an expensive prescription drug program, and unpaid for tax cuts that will force the government to borrow an average of $500 billion every year over the next decade. Obama warned that the budget proposal championed by House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan, R-Wis., would lead to a very different America – the America that can’t afford to fix roads, invest in clean air, send kids to college, and keep its promise to seniors. Under Ryan’s plan, transportation funding would be cut by 30 percent, education by 25 percent, and clean energy by 70 percent. Calling the plan pessimistic, Obama described how China and North Korea are scrambling to figure out how they could open more research labs and put more money in education to outpace American kids in math and science.
The president went on to say that Ryan’s plan would destroy Medicare and force seniors to pay $6,400 more per year than they would today while their health care is not even guaranteed. Ryan’s plan would leave 50 million Americans with no health insurance – these are poor children and somebody’s grandparents who wouldn’t be able to afford nursing home care without Medicaid. Obama said while America under Ryan’s plan can’t afford to invest in education or maintain commitment on Medicare and Medicaid, his plan somehow can afford more than $1 trillion in new tax breaks for the rich. “They want to give people like me a $200,000 tax cut that’s paid for by asking 33 seniors each to pay $6,000 more in health costs. That’s not right. And it’s not going to happen as long as I’m president,” Obama said. The president offered his own 2012 budget framework that would reduce the deficit by $4 trillion in 12 years or less. Meanwhile, the Ryan plan passed the House Friday afternoon. It will be sent to the Senate where it’s considered dead on arrival. AFGE strongly opposes Ryan’s ‘Road to Ruin’. For more information about AFGE’s fight against this new attack on federal employees and the middle class, visit www.afge.org and click on the Fight Back Toolkit button. House, Senate Passes 2011 Budget Deal: The House and the Senate on Thursday passed a budget bill that prevented a government shutdown last week and cuts spending by more than $38 billion this fiscal year. This includes the $12 billion in reductions previously approved and signed into law under three continuing resolutions. The agreement doesn’t include $1.3 billion in cuts to federal employee performance-based bonuses and step increases that was sought by some right-wing budget negotiators. Here’s a summary of the final continuing resolution: Agriculture: $20 billion, which is $3 billion below the 2010 level Commerce, Justice, Science: $53.4 billion, a $10.9 billion reduction from 2010 levels Defense: $513 billion, about $5 billion more than last year. Energy and Water: $31.8 billion, a $1.7 billion decrease from last year Financial Services: $22 billion, which is $2.4 billion below fiscal 2010 Homeland Security: $41.8 billion, a $784 million decrease compared with last year Interior: $29.6 billion, which is $2.62 billion less than last year Labor, HHS, Education, Related Agencies: $157.7 billion, about $5.5 billion less than fiscal 2010 Legislative Branch: $103 million less than last year Military Construction/Veterans Affairs: $76.6 billion, an increase of $600 over last year’s level State and Foreign Operations: $48.3 billion, which is $504 million below the 2010 level Transportation, HUD, Related Agencies: $55.5 billion, a $12.3 billion reduction from last year For the list of program cuts, click here. Click here for the text of the legislation. President Obama’s Budget Message to Federal Employees: President Obama on Monday sent the following message to federal employees: “Late Friday evening we reached an agreement on the budget that will keep the government open. I know the past few weeks have been a time of uncertainty and concern for you and your families, but your patience and professionalism throughout this entire period have affirmed my confidence in you and everyone who works in our government.” “You do your jobs without complaint or much recognition. But it is men and women like you who help make America all it is by responding to the needs of our people and keeping our country safe and secure. And so, I want to thank you not only for your forbearance in recent weeks but for the service you render each and every day to the United States of America.” Federal Protective Service Gets Staffing Boost in 2011 Budget: Despite a highly charged and largely negative attitude in Congress toward new spending for any non-military federal program, AFGE was able to secure a sizable increase in the number of staff at the Federal Protective Service. Language contained in the 2011 Continuing Resolution, which provides funding for the government through the end of the fiscal year, will increase the number of federal employees by 146 or about 12 percent. In addition, legislation has been introduced by Senators Joe Lieberman, I-Conn., and Susan Collins, R-Maine, to make additional significant reforms sought by the union. That bill is scheduled for mark up in the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee next month. Among the reforms included in that bill is law enforcement retirement benefits for FPS police officers. AFGE Opposes Changes to Workers Compensation Program: AFGE strongly opposes several proposed changes to the Federal Workers’ Compensation Act that governs how federal employees injured or become ill on the job get compensated. Testifying before the House Subcommittee on Federal Workforce, U.S. Postal Service and Labor Policy April 13, AFGE Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Milly Rodriguez explained that many of these proposed changes would save the government money simply by taking away benefits but failing to improve the claims process or make the workplace safer. The Labor Department reasons that the changes would equalize benefits among postal and non-postal agencies and state and federal employees, but AFGE believes that the federal government shouldn’t be striving for bad changes. The changes AFGE would like to see are the changes that improve the claims process and result in employees getting the medical attention sooner so they can return to work sooner. We would like to see agencies give employees the time they need to recover so their conditions don’t worsen by returning to work too early. Here are some of the proposed changes we oppose:
For more details on DOL’s proposed changes, read Rodriguez’s written testimony here.
Republicans Don’t Support Major Changes to Medicare: Contrary to right-wing lawmakers’ claim, the majority of Americans who identify themselves as Republicans do not want major changes to Medicare. According to a new Gallup poll released April 13, a combined 61 percent of Republicans either favor not trying to control Medicare costs at all or want to make only minor changes to the program. This is a major rebuke to House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan whose 2012 budget proposal calls for Medicare privatization. Public Supports Higher Taxes for Wealthiest Americans: In the same Gallup poll, 59 percent of Americans support raising taxes for families making over $250,000. Federal Employees Delinquent on Taxes Could Be Terminated: Under a new bill passed by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee April 13, federal employees who are seriously delinquent on their taxes could be removed. The bill, H.R. 828 sponsored by Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah, would exclude employees whose debt is being paid in a timely manner. The committee also adopted an amendment from Rep. Stephen Lynch, D-Mass., that would require a notice period of 60 days before personnel action is taken by an agency, among other technical changes to protect due process. Rep. Elijah Cummings, the ranking Democrat on the committee, pointed out that according to the IRS, more than 96 percent of federal employees pay their taxes on time, a higher rate than the general public. House Panel Approves Bill to Extend Probation Period to Two Years: Another bill approved by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee on April 13 would lengthen the probationary period for new federal employees from one year to two. Some lawmakers believe the bill, H.R. 1470, is another right wing’s attempt to reduce federal employees’ workplace rights. The bill was introduced by Rep. Dennis Ross, R-Fla. Embattled Wisconsin Governor Walker Grilled by Combative Lawmakers: House lawmakers on Thursday bashed Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, who came to Washington to testify on his work in reducing the state deficit, including his union-busting law that is currently the subject of a court fight and has caused uprisings across the country. Rep. Elijah Cummings, the ranking Democrat on the panel, ripped into the governor: “It is shameful to play politics with American workers and their families. These are real people, middle-class Americans who are trying to put food on the table for their families, keep a roof over their heads, educate their children and plan for a retirement that does not burden their loved ones. We should be helping these workers, not attacking them, because they are the engine and the author of the American recovery.” Walker also made a few damaging admissions. Pressed by Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., Walker admitted he didn’t campaign on repealing workers’ rights. Questioned by Rep. Dennis Kucinich, D-Ohio, Walker admitted his so-called budget repair bill that repealed the right of public employees did not save the state any money. Watch the exchange here. Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin, (D), who’s facing similar budget problems, said lawmakers should not use a budget crisis to attack workers’ rights. “If you want to go after collective bargaining, just come out and say it, but if you want to balance your budget, you bring people together, you have a dialogue. People in all states want the same thing….They want reasonableness, they want compromise.…When you refuse to meet with unions [you] mount an outright assault on basic principal in a democratic society.” Inside Government: Tune in now to AFGE’s “Inside Government” to learn more about the potential impact of a federal government shutdown. The show, which originally aired on Friday, April 8, is now available on demand. AFGE National President John Gage recently spoke at a National Press Club Newsmakers press conference to discuss the consequences of a government shutdown and the impact it would have on federal employees and the public services they provide. Gage also addressed the strain massive budget cuts would put on average Americans who rely on government services. AFGE 14th District National Vice President Dwight Bowman then responded to D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray’s proposed 2012 budget, which calls for $187 million in spending cuts and $127 million in taxes and fees. Lastly, Grantham University President Dr. Fredrick Snow discussed tuition discounts and scholarships available to AFGE members and their families as well as new Grantham University degree programs. Listen LIVE on Fridays at 10 a.m. on 1500 AM WFED in the D.C. area or online at www.federalnewsradio.com. Quote of the Week President Obama on the right wing’s 2012 budget proposal: “They want to give people like me a $200,000 tax cut that’s paid for by asking 33 seniors each to pay $6,000 more in health costs. That’s not right. And it’s not going to happen as long as I’m president.” April 22, 2011 “These are the same lawmakers who have voted to cut government services and programs for the middle class and the poor under the guise of cutting the deficit,” said AFGE President John Gage. “Now we know what their real goal is – funnel taxpayer dollars to the same outside contractors who helped to bankroll their elections and destroy over a million good jobs in the process.” The extremist legislation comes as the federal government is struggling to improve its contract oversight and acquisition workforce while battling contractor fraud, which is a serious issue at the Defense Department, the agency that does most outsourcing in the federal government. This new political push to outsource federal work will wreak havoc on the government’s efforts to fight contract fraud and abuse as the rush to use contractors has proven to put the government at risk. AFGE is asking its Locals and Councils to reach out to their congressional representatives to make them aware of these efforts to destroy jobs and shift even more costs to the taxpayer. AFGE Finishes First in Union Election at TSA, Prepared for Runoff: AFGE on Wednesday won the most votes but not a majority in a historic election at TSA. There is one more step before Transportation Security Officers can be represented on the job by AFGE. Because no union received a majority of the votes, the Federal Labor Relations Authority called for a runoff between AFGE and the other union while the choice of no union was dropped. AFGE President John Gage is asking TSOs to come out and vote for AFGE again in the runoff election, which is set for May 23-June 21 with the ballots being tallied on June 23. “I’d like to thank TSOs, supporters, members and staff for their hard work. AFGE won the first round of a fierce contest and we expect to win the runoff election,” said President Gage. “I’m asking TSOs to come out and vote for us one more time. We’re one step closer to bringing you a better workplace and future.” Most Americans Oppose Paul Ryan’s Plan to Cut Medicare: According to a new Washington Post-ABC News poll, 65 percent of Americans oppose any change in Medicare that would result in seniors receiving a fixed-amount check from the government to buy their own private insurance policy – the plan proposed by House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan, R-Wis., and passed by the House last week but is considered dead on arrival in the Senate. Health Care Reform Law Benefits 280,000 Children of Federal Employees: According to Office of Personnel Management Director John Berry, 280,000 young adults have been added to their parents’ Federal Employee Health Benefits Program plans. Under the law passed last year, young adults can stay on their parents’ health plans until they turn 26 – up from 22 before the law was enacted. Bill to Strengthen Whistleblowers’ Rights Introduced in Senate: A bipartisan group of senators has introduced a bill that would strengthen the existing whistleblower protection law. The Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2011 would, among other things: • Clarify that "any" disclosure of gross waste or mismanagement, fraud, abuse, or illegal activity may be protected, but not disagreements over legitimate policy decisions; • Extend whistleblower protection coverage and other non-discrimination and anti-retaliatory laws to all Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees; • Clarify that whistleblowers may disclose evidence of censorship of scientific or technical information under the same standards that apply to disclosures of other kinds of waste, fraud, and abuse. • Allow jury trials under certain circumstances for a period of five years for employees who take legal action against agencies that allegedly retaliate against workers who expose wrongdoing; • Clarify that employees protected by the whistleblower protection law may make protected classified disclosures to Congress using the same process as Intelligence Community employees; • Establish protections for the Intelligence Community modeled on existing whistleblower protections for FBI employees Average CEO Pay Was $11.4 Million in 2010: According to new AFL-CIO analysis of 299 largest American companies, the average pay of a CEO at a major American company went up by 23 percent in 2010 to stand at $11.4 million despite the collapse of the financial markets at the hands of many of these same executives less than three years ago. When Union Membership Decreases, Middle-Class Income Shrinks: Right-wing lawmakers are attacking public unions left and right, feeding false information to the public with hopes to strip workers of the voice that helps them get fair compensation for their hard work. Unions are critical in defending the middle class, and when union membership goes down, middle-class income goes down. For public union members who are now under increased attack, you will see your income drop if these politicians succeed. For more information about what you can do, visit www.afge.org and click on the Fight Back Toolkit button. Inside Government: Tune in now to AFGE’s “Inside Government” to learn about the benefits of protective equipment for correctional officers in the Bureau of Prisons (BOP). The show, which originally aired on Friday, April 22, is now available on demand. AFGE Council of Prison Locals President Bryan Lowry discussed the recent Government Accountability Office report entitled “Bureau of Prisons: Evaluating the Impact of Protective Equipment Could Help Enhance Officer Safety” and the need to provide protective equipment to BOP officers. AFGE Contract Analyst Tim Shorrock then discussed Japan’s recovery efforts in the aftermath of a massive earthquake and subsequent tsunami and nuclear disaster. Shorrock shed light on the Japanese government’s response to the tragedy and startling labor issues at Japan’s nuclear power plants. Lastly, Dr. Toni Lewis, chair of the Service Employees International Union’s health care division, addressed the implementation of the Affordable Care Act and the benefit to America’s working families. Listen LIVE on Fridays at 10 a.m. on 1500 AM WFED in the D.C. area or online at www.federalnewsradio.com. Quote of the Week AFGE President John Gage on the historic union election at TSA. “AFGE won the first round of a fierce contest and we expect to win the runoff election. I’m asking TSOs to come out and vote for us one more time. We’re one step closer to bringing you a better workplace and future.” | |
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4/11/11 To All My TSA Officers Contact us directly for any assistance you may need. A message from VOTE FOR AFGE, ON YOUR SIDE FROM THE VERY BEGINNING!!!!! 3/27/11 AFGE Local 2222 with a message to all our members.
You can now change the operating structure of TSA forever.
Be sure to vote #1
American Federation of Government Employees!
Reply VOTED, and send it to any one of the phone numbers
or e mails posted if you have already voted.
We want to thank all our members for VOTING!!!!!
Any assistance you may need please contact us anytime.
afgelocal2222.org
AFGE Local 2222 Executive Board
President Hydrick Thomas 347-653-0792
Vice President Maxel Shabay Izquierdo 347-441-9074
shabayizquierdo@afgelocal2222.org
Treasurer Stacy Bodtmann 347-781-2715
JFK Airport Vice President
William Castro 718-877-1447
williamcastro@afgelocal2222.org
3/17/2011
AFGE Launches Election Video |
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Please pass it on to your co-workers and ask them to join 12,000 others to vote for AFGE!
In the meantime, the powerful AFL-CIO – recognizing AFGE's lengthy struggle on behalf of TSA employees – today declared full support for AFGE as the best union to represent TSA employees.
"Using legislative authority, the Bush-appointed TSA administrator denied TSA workers the right to collectively bargain, and a 2003 representation petition filed by AFGE was dismissed," said the AFL-CIO in a statement. "Legislative efforts to achieve collective bargaining rights for these workers were thwarted with a threatened veto by then President Bush. But AFGE and its TSA members refused to take “No” for an answer. "
"The AFL-CIO stands in full support of AFGE and the Transportation Security Officers in the election and renews its commitment to secure full collective bargaining rights for all federal and other public employees."
The AFL-CIO’s enormous clout on Capitol Hill means TSOs’ voice will be heard. With AFGE, TSOs will also have the backing of 12 million union members, many of whom have come out and joined AFGE-sponsored solidarity rallies across the country to call for TSO bargaining rights. Other TSA unions could never imagine this kind of support for them. When you’re up against management, size matters. AFGE is the only union that has what it takes to represent you!
Vote AFGE – the Most Trusted Union in the Federal Government!
For more information about AFGE representation, go to www.tsaunion.net or call AFGE TSA Hotline at (866) 392-6832. American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO 80 F Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001 | Tel. (202) 737-8700 | Fax (202) 639-6492 | www.afge.org3/8/8
The day has finally arrived! We now have the opportunity to determine who will represent TSA into the future.
Each of you will be a part of the largest election within the federal government's history.
We have never been as powerful as we are right now.
There are over 40,000 employees who now have the right to vote for a superior union. Our strength is in our numbers.
It has been 9 long years without collective bargaining rights.
Today is the historical beginning of change!
Now you can all make a difference.
The true difference begins with all your votes.
Vote for AFGE from March 9, 2011 to April 19, 2011.
"Who better to represent and speak for the people, than the people"
Any assistance or information you may need with the election process please call or e mail us.
AFGE Local 2222 Executive Board
President Hydrick Thomas 347-653-0792
Vice President Maxel Shabay Izquierdo 347-441-9074
Treasurer Stacy Bodtmann 347-781-2715
Contact us on facebook or on our website.
afgelocal2222.org
March 9, 2011
Vote AFGE As Soon As You Receive Election Package: As TSA is mailing election instructions along with identification numbers to all eligible voters today, March 9, please cast your vote for AFGE immediately after receiving your package. AFGE is number 1 on the ballot.
If you are deployed, please call the FLRA and have the package sent to your new address. The FLRA can be reached at (toll-free) 855-619-6676 or 202-218-7926. The toll-free number is available only to those living in the 50 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
AFGE Denounces LaGuardia TSA’s Destroying of TSOs’ Personal Belongings: AFGE General Counsel David Borer today wrote to LaGuardia Federal Security Director, demanding an explanation over a recent incident in which managers cut off the locks from employee lockers and threw away TSOs’ belongings, including prescription medication, doctor’s notes, and personal documentation. Some TSOs also reported uniforms and money missing. TSOs said they received only one memo on Feb. 11 advising them that their lockers were to be shared. They received no other notice to indicate that personal property would be destroyed because of this policy change. AFGE called for a removal of managers involved in this operation.
“Setting aside for the moment whether management had a legal right to open the lockers, they had no right to destroy personal property without compensation,” General Counsel Borer wrote. “And, of course, management had no right to steal money or other belongings from the lockers under any circumstances. Apart from the legal culpability of TSA management or the individuals involved, I believe you must agree that this operation was handled in a disrespectful and callous manner. It yet again proves that TSA undervalues its employees at LaGuardia to an incredible extent.”
The general counsel asked whether the FSD authorized the operation, if steps were taken to secure the contents of the lockers, and what arrangement have been made to process employees’ claims for lost, damaged, and stolen items. AFGE is conducting an investigation into this incident and will vigorously pursue the rights of the employees affected by management actions.
AFGE’s Representation Leads to Overturn of L.A. TSO’s Removal: A Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) TSO remains employed at TSA because of an AFGE attorney. The TSO was removed in September last year for allegedly failing to follow instructions. But the AFGE attorney argued that the penalty was not reasonable and that the agency failed to consider other factors when removing the TSO. The Disciplinary Review Board agreed with the AFGE attorney, reinstated the TSO and awarded her back pay.
Jan 15 2011
LET'S CONGRATULATE THE NEWLY ELECTED
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS OF AFGE 2222
The Results from the December 9, 2010 Election
These are the nominees who were elected to serve for the next three years as
Executive Board members of AFGE Local 2222.
President Hydrick Thomas
Vice President Maxel Shabay Izquierdo
Treasurer Stacy Bodtmann
Secretary Edwin Soriano
As the new leaders of AFGE Local 2222 our members concerns, issues,
benefits, representation, and legal rights will always be our number one priority!
The Executive Board will maintain their dedication and commitment to every goal needed to be accomplished for all our members moving forward into
the future.
We want to thank all our members for their participation and support.
"Who better to represent and speak for the people, than the people"
Please contact us anytime on our website or on facebook.
afgelocal2222.org
joinus@afgelocal2222.org
Jan 1 2011
HAPPY NEW YEAR
We will all be a part of history within a few more hours as the New Year of 2011 comes in.
Today is a day of rememberance of all our accomplishments in 2010. Yes your relentless determination and focus has paved the way for greater unified goals in 2011.
New Year celebrations are meant to be spending joyous times with all your loved ones.
AFGE Local 2222 wants to wish all our members and their families happiness, prosperity, and success in the coming year.
For 2011, we will create our new book of opportunities and let the first page be New Year's Day.
Contact us anytime, or follow us on facebook.
afgelocal2222.org
joinus@afgelocal2222.org
November 11
AFGE Local 2222 Is Proud In Celebrating The JFK Unity Victory!!!!!
Veterans Day is an emotional holiday that will always be a day of remembrance and history in America.
Now November 11, 2010 will always be a historic day for our officers at TSA JFK International Airport.
Congratulations, the real reason the JFK airport wide bid was rescinded is because of your commitment, dedication, determination, focus, unity, and relentless efforts! AFGE Local 2222 is proud of all our members and fellow officers for showing what can really be done if we all unify. Together we are more powerful in numbers, than as single individuals. We advised every concerned officer to put a stoppage to the airport wide bid, each of your voices had to be heard. The only way that was going to be accomplished was by each of you continuously filling out your concern forms and sending e mails to the FSD, and DFSD. Finally you let all your voices be heard by sending hundreds upon hundreds of concern forms and e mails that TSA JFK Management HAD NO CHOICE, BUT TO LISTEN AND RESPOND!!!!!
There has never been such a disruptive and challenging directive in which was attempted to be implemented that had our officers demanding an immediate change. Not until the airport wide bid situation arose. Our officers responded when they directly informed TSA JFK Management that the airport wide bid was unjustified, clearly unfair, and was unacceptable. AFGE Local 2222 advised each officer as to what was needed to be done to stop the airport wide bid. Yes, because of your hard work it was a success! The airport wide bid was cancelled on November 11, 2010. Do not be deceived or confused into thinking that it was efforts by other individuals NTEU who had no form of influence or power regarding the immediate stoppage of the bid. There are rumors circulating that those same individuals NTEU who had nothing to do with the stoppage of the bid, will be giving a victory party? Let me ask all of you this, what exactly are they celebrating? What victory? THEY DID NOTHING!!!!! Those fraudulent petitions that they had our officers filling out were just that FRAUDULENT!!!!! Think about it, do you truly think that NTEU could take those fraudulent petitions and just forward them to TSA JFK Management personnel? Not only that, do you truly think that TSA JFK Management personnel would ever really acknowledge NTEU's fraudulent petitions? NEVER!!!!! IT'S IMPOSSIBLE!!!!! Do not let NTEU continue to fool you. Please wake up! You all need to open your eyes and your minds to reality. We do not have collective bargaining rights as of yet. That is a fight that AFGE Local 2222 has continued to fight and will do so, until all our officers are awarded collective bargaining rights. AFGE Local 2222 is not here to deceive our members; we will always tell you the truth! The stoppage of the airport wide bid was solely your efforts and your efforts alone!!!!! We want you to take full credit and responsibility for finally letting your voice be heard. United we should always stand! Please also understand that if we are ever divided we will continue to fall. Our true strength stands in our numbers, we are the most powerful form of energy when combined that is truly an effective force of momentum. Each of you was able to prove that by having TSA JFK Management reverse an implemented directive regarding the airport wide bid. This is a historic day in our history here at JFK International Airport.
WE ARE MORE POWERFUL AS A UNIT AND WHAT EACH OF YOU ACCOMPLISHED ON NOVEMBER 11, 2010, WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED AS PART OF OUR HISTORICAL MOVEMENT HERE AT JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FOREVER. STAY FOCUSED!!!!!
AFGE Local 2222
afgelocal2222.org
joinus@afgelocal2222.org
President Hydrick Thomas
hydrickthomas@afgelocal2222.org
Vice President Maxel Shabay Izquierdo
shabayizquierdo@afgelocal2222.org
Treasurer Stacy Bodtmann
stacybodtmann@afgelocal2222.org
Secretary Edwin Soriano
edwinsoriano@afgelocal2222.org
"Who better to represent and speak for the people, than the people"
Oct 14
Pistole Tells TSOs at JFK Decision on Bargaining Rights Coming Soon: In response to a question from AFGE Local 2222 President Hydrick Thomas, Transportation Security Administration Administrator John Pistole told TSA employees at JFK International Airport in New York on Oct. 13 that he intends to make a decision on collective bargaining rights for Transportation Security Officers soon. The administrator’s visit to JFK was in response to concerns raised last month by AFGE Local President Thomas, who wrote to Pistole that employee morale was in the dumps because of poor treatment by management. Thomas went on to ask if Pistole has plans to bring TSA up to a standard where it is seen as a career-oriented agency, or will it continue to remain a revolving door of disappointed workers. The administrator said he has every intention to bring TSA up to a level where officers feel they can enjoy a career with TSA.
Pistole Wants to Raise Pay in 2012
Speaking at the JFK townhall meeting in which nearly 100 TSOs attended, Pistole said he was amazed when he saw a paycheck of an officer without any overtime. He stated that he wants to raise their base pay in 2012, explaining that the raise will have to be done in 2012 because the 2011 budget was already completed. However, many in attendance were left to wonder if the hike in base pay – though long overdue – is a way for TSA to sidestep the issue of converting the workforce to the General Schedule system. Pistole invited officers to email him any ideas or concerns they have to make TSA a better agency. The administrator also promised to look into the shift bidding practice at JFK, in which social security numbers are used to decide who get to bid first.
It was noted that no local management was present, which is a major shift in how the administrator’s townhall was organized after AFGE raised concerns that TSOs were very reluctant to speak in a previous townhall in Seattle because local managers attended.
Oct.8
HOT NEWS FLASH!!!
Guess Who is Coming To JFK Airport? TSA Administrator Mr John Pistole
After being contacted by AFGE Local 2222 President Hydrick Thomas via e mail.
TSA Administrator Mr John Pistole has said that he will make good on his word. He will be visiting our
airport October 13, 2010 to listen to your concerns, issues, and address the deteriorating morale factor at JFK Airport. Your participation would be appreciated. If you have any questions please send them to our website.
joinus@afgelocal2222.org
Administrator Pistole to Visit JFK: In response to an email from Lead TSO Hydrick Thomas, president of AFGE Local 2222,
expressing concerns about morale at JFK International Airport, TSA Administrator John Pistole promised a visit to the New York airport in the fall. In his email to Administrator Pistole, LTSO Thomas said it would be a morale booster if the administrator could visit the airport and speaks about the future of TSA. He said politicians and the flying public don't fully grasp the fact that TSOs put their lives on the line every time they check bags and passengers.
"[I] appreciate your insights. I'll plan to come to JFK sometime later this fall," Administrator Pistole responded in a Sept. 19 email. "Thanks for what you do every day to keep the traveling public safe."
AFGE President John Gage said the union is encouraged by the administrator's quick response and willingness to address employees' concerns.
Oct.6
AFGE TSO Addresses One Nation Rally: Hundreds of AFGE activists were among the tens of thousands of people who took part in the Oct. 2 "One Nation Working Together" rally in Washington D.C. The day-long rally featured numerous rights activists, celebrities and speakers, including AFGE Transportation Security Officer activist Janice Moseley, who was part of the One Nation speaking group on jobs and health. "My co-workers and I are on the frontlines every day to keep our airports safe," she told the crowd. "We're trying to gain a union voice on the job, which won't threaten national security - it will help national security. I'm marching so that we can enjoy the freedom we work to protect."
The rally was co-sponsored by the largest and most influential labor movement - the AFL-CIO, of which AFGE is a member.AFGE Activists in Minneapolis Voice Support for Delta Employees: AFGE activists from the Minneapolis International Airport recently joined Delta employees in a rally protesting Delta's anti-worker tactics to discourage employees from voting for union after the merger of Delta and Northwest in 2008. Delta is the only big U.S. airline that is mostly non-union while Northwest is heavily unionized. The protest took place where Delta CEO Richard Anderson spoke to area businessmen at a breakfast meeting.
"The Delta employee's fight is our fight - the same as our fight is their fight," said AFGE Local 899 President Dean Johnson. "We have been meeting regularly to discuss strategies and actions in support of our sisters and brothers in each other's struggles."
AFGE TSO Addresses One Nation Rally: Hundreds of AFGE activists were among the tens of thousands of people who took part in the Oct. 2 "One Nation Working Together" rally in Washington D.C. The day-long rally featured numerous rights activists, celebrities and speakers, including AFGE Transportation Security Officer activist Janice Moseley, who was part of the One Nation speaking group on jobs and health. My co-workers and I are on the frontlines every day to keep our airports safe," she told the crowd. "We're trying to gain a union voice on the job, which won't threaten national security - it will help national security. I'm marching so that we can enjoy the freedom we work to protect." The rally was co-sponsored by the largest and most influential labor movement - the AFL-CIO, of which AFGE is a member.
Sept. 15, 2010
AFGE's Involvement Leads to Cancellation of Leave Watch Policy at Bob Hope Airport: After AFGE President John Gage wrote to TSA Administrator John Pistole, expressing his concern over the local leave watch policy at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, California, the airport's federal security director last Friday rescinded the controversial July 8, 2010 memorandum that had placed more than half of the airport on leave watch and subjected them to leave audits that could lead to disciplinary action."Be assured I encourage all TSA/BUR employees to enjoy all of their benefits as federal government employees, including the use of leave and/or [Family Medical Leave Act] while at the same time doing so in compliance with all applicable directives, policies and procedures," FSD Brian Cahill wrote in a Sept. 10 memo to employees.
In a strongly worded letter sent to Administrator Pistole Aug. 16, President Gage went into detail about how TSA at Bob Hope Airport harassed TSOs for using legitimate sick leave, annual leave, and FMLA leave, violating TSA's absence and leave policy, which encourages TSOs to make full use of their leave benefits. President Gage asked that the TSA administrator order the FSD to cancel his misguided local policy.
AFGE Wins Shift Bidding Case for Texas TSO: Siding with AFGE, an Equal Employee Opportunity Commission administrative judge ruled in favor of a Texas TSO who was not allowed to bid on one of the two schedules that provided for Fridays and Saturdays off. The judge found that the method employed by TSA at Abilene Regional Airport was discriminatory based on gender. The TSO, who was the second most senior officer, should have received one of the two schedules that provided a Friday and Saturday off. One of the shifts went to the most senior officer who was male. The next two senior officers were both females but because they could not bid on a schedule with a Friday and Saturday off, a less senior male officer received it. Because the TSO was not allowed to bid on the preferred shift, she had to use her leave to attend her kids' games. The judge sided with AFGE, and the TSO was awarded restoration of leave, compensatory damages and attorney fees.
Mortgage Program for AFGE TSOs: Financing a home can be a complicated business. AFGE's Chase mortgage experts will walk you through the entire process of buying, selling and refinancing homes. We also offer special mortgage programs for first-time buyers. Parents and children of AFGE members are also eligible for Union Plus mortgages. AFGE's Union Plus Mortgage Program also provides:
- Unemployment and disability benefits to help you make mortgage payments when you're out of work. The program has provided over $64 million in interest free loans to union members, helping them keep their home loans current.
- Low closing costs. Closing costs are kept down by capping non-third party fees at $100. Fees from other lenders range from $500 to over $1,000.
- Gift card: Buy your first home using Union Plus and earn a $500 gift card for a union grocery store near you
Sept. 2, 2010
TSA Once Again Ranked as One of Worst Places to Work: The Transportation Security Administration continues to be one of the worst places to work in the federal government, according to the Partnership for Public Service's annual Best Places to Work survey conducted in February, four months before the arrival of TSA Administrator John Pistole. Out of 224 federal agencies whose employees were surveyed, TSA ranked an abysmal 220th. TSA's standing fell lower than the previous year when TSA ranked 213rd out of 231 agencies. Like the results of last year's Best Places to Work survey, TSOs this year still don't think very highly of their bosses. In the four 'effective leadership' categories, the average ranking was around 40 percent. TSOs also are not very happy with their highly subjective pay system as the Performance Based Rewards and Advancement category received only the ranking of 32.6 percent. But the worst ranking of 21.1 percent was given to the Family Friendly Culture and Benefits category.
"Another year and still no real change in how TSA is viewed by its workforce," said John Gage, president of the American Federation of Government Employees. "These workplace issues can only be addressed by giving the TSOs a real voice through their union to engage in collective bargaining."
AFGE President Gage Talks to Federal News Radio on Meeting with TSA Administrator Pistole: AFGE President John Gage was interviewed on Federal News Radio last Friday on his Aug. 20 meeting with TSA Administrator John Pistole. President Gage told Federal News Radio that he made a case for TSO collective bargaining, pointing out to the administrator that being a union member doesn't impede national security. First responders of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, for example, are union members. Ft. Hood heroes are union members. President Gage also mentioned higher morale and lower turnover at San Francisco International Airport where private sector screeners have collective bargaining rights. President Gage said the administrator is conducting an assessment of the potential affect of collective bargaining on TSA operations. The assessment should be done in a few weeks. Other workplace issues were discussed during the two-hour meeting, including the need to get rid of TSA's highly subjective pay system known as PASS. Listen to the interview with President Gage here.
AWOL Charge against Puerto Rico TSO Dropped: AFGE successfully represented a Puerto Rico TSO who had been suspended for three days and marked AWOL, absent without leave, after a few instances of brief tardiness. AFGE filed a grievance on behalf of the TSO, arguing that the penalty was excessive because there had never been a pattern of absences or leave abuse and that the employee was always willing to work extra hours when help was needed. Management dropped the charge and the employee received back pay.
AUG 4 - 2010
Full FLRA Agrees to Review AFGE's Union Election Petition: The American Federation of Government Employees' attempt 
to put an end to arbitrary work rules and poor treatment of employees at the Transportation Security Administration received a new push last Friday when the Federal Labor Relations Authority agreed to review a regional director's dismissal of the union's petition for a union election at TSA. According to sources, the authority should have its decision within 60 days.
AFGE is seeking a union election now so that when TSA grants TSOs the rights to bargain collectively for better pay and workplace rules, AFGE is ready to negotiate with management right away. Arbitrary pay system, leave rules, favoritism and abuse have to be ended as soon as possible. A delay in union election, as sought by the treasury employees union, means a delay in justice owed to TSOs.
AFGE live Web Chat August 4: AFGE will host a live TSA Web chat on Wednesday, Aug. 4 from 2-2:30 p.m. to discuss the FLRA's recent decision to review a regional director's denial of AFGE's petition for a union election at TSA. AFGE Membership and Organization Deputy Director Cathie McQuiston will host a Web chat with Transportation Security Officers across the country. McQuiston, a well-respected federal sector labor lawyer, is the AFGE representative of record in these proceedings. The Web chat will be open to anyone interested in participating. Participants can submit questions in advance by emailing tsaquestions@afge.org. The Web chat will be hosted at www.tsaunion.net/townhall.cfm If you can't hear it live today, the chat is available on AFGE's TSA Web site at www.tsaunion.net All previous chats are also available on demand at http://tsa.afge.org/videos.cfm
AFGE Questions Miami TSA's Refusal to Accommodate Nursing Mothers: While other airports recognize the need to accommodate breast-feeding mothers, TSA at Miami International Airport doesn't. Local management recently rejected AFGE's request to accommodate a TSO who was repeatedly denied breaks to pump her breast milk, resulting in an extremely embarrassing situation at a checkpoint. "This is affecting me emotionally, mentally, and physically because I am not producing the same anymore because of stress," the TSO told AFGE. "I shouldn't be forced to eat my lunch in the ladies room while pumping or have to fill out a leave request every time I need to pump my breast milk."
TSA doesn't have a nationwide policy on breast feeding, but most airports accommodate nursing mothers by providing space and time for pumping. The Office of Personnel Management, which is the federal government's lead on personnel issues, encourages agencies to establish a breastfeeding program because of its many benefits to the mothers and the agencies themselves. This is another example of how a collective bargaining agreement, or union contract, will improve working conditions for TSOs as this is an issue AFGE will be able to bargain.