COVID Mandate Update
We have been trying to get answers as to the company’s plans due to the changes in the Federal COVID Mandate. After much speculation, and a disappointing lack of communication from the company, the new RTX has announced their COVID policy at last. After spending considerable efforts hiding behind the veil of the Biden Federal Mandate, RTX is now going forward with their plans to allow only fully vaccinated people into the plants starting on January 18, 2022.
Your Union has the right to bargain with RTX for any reason where your working conditions are affected. Yet, the company refused to bargain regarding possible testing protocols saying, “testing is not an option”! RTX is now moving to unilaterally instituting this new policy. They also are refusing to talk about what happens if you are not fully vaccinated on January 18th. Will people be terminated? Will they be offered a furlough? What if people do not qualify for the potential exemptions? Will the company contest unemployment claims? RTX is refusing to discuss these subjects. This is another example of the pure arrogance of the new RTX company.
In 2021 we were able to negotiate $100 for you at the end of the year. Why would we take the insulting $50 they offered us this year? Would that mean an offer of $25 next year? We are in a tough fight with RTX now. And we expect it will get tougher in 2022 on issues in RRFC, the Machine shop, and HWIC. What we all need is members that are going to stand tough with each other, and with the leadership. Showing weakness is not an option if we truly are going to be successful. Standing in solidarity together is what gives us our greatest strength.
We will continue to fight hard for answers and for your rights. Stay together and stay strong!
These are indeed difficult times. However, we are confident of better times ahead. I, and your entire Union leadership team, would like to sincerely wish you all a wonderful Holiday Season and a very happy New Year.
Yours in Solidarity,
Michael Zagami
IBEW Local 1505
Business Manager
