Previous Contract Updates

Today in the Compensation Committee, Boeing made a proposal to raise the entry-level rates; however, it fell far short of Union expectations especially in light of soaring Company profits.

After not improving the minimum rates for over 16 years, Boeing proposed only raising the entry rates by $1.28 per hour. This represents a raise of only 8 cents per year. Keep in mind that during that same time period the minimum wage increased $3.82 an hour from $4.25 an hour in 1992 to the present $8.07 an hour.

Just as disturbing as the small amount offered is the fact that it covers only new hires in the future. The proposal offered nothing for current members who already hired in at the entry rates UNLESS those current employees happen to fall below the new minimum. If we accept such an offer, future hires would be making the same as many of those who have spent a year on the payroll - is that fair?

The Company proposal would only affect a small portion of current employees who are still below the new minimums after the application of COLA and any General Wage Increase. Most of you would receive nothing. This offer does not address the need to shorten progression steps or add more money per step. It takes too long for members to get to the maximum rates and even with this proposal, the minimum rates are too low. The Union is looking to make many improvements on the issues surrounding wages including an improved COLA formula.

This proposal does not address the problem caused by the frozen minimum rates. Boeing needs to step up and act like a world class company and offer hiring rates reflective of the skills they require.

To date, Boeing has not come close to meeting ANY of the minimum requirements you identified as important in this round of bargaining. Boeing continues to act as though they are a company in bankruptcy rather than in record profits. They seem determined to offer as little as possible at a time when we hold the bargaining leverage. It’s Our Time This Time!

In the Benefits Subcommittee, Boeing has admitted their health care offer if accepted would actually save them money because YOU would pay more.

Tell Doug Kight, Boeing’s lead negotiator, you want improvements in ALL areas of the contract because YOU have earned Boeing record profits of over $13 billion. Tell Doug Kight to stop negotiating with the shop floor and come to the bargaining table with realistic proposals that offer the respect
you have earned. It’s Our Time This Time!

The Main Table will meet again on Thursday to hear reports from the various subcommittees. Union negotiators remain frustrated at the lack of progress and continued talk of eliminating benefits for new hires. Time for Boeing to start listening and start moving because It’s Our Time This Time!
 
In Solidarity
Your Union Negotiating Team