September 20, 2007

I have been receiving reports from some people at all campuses that UPTE has made a down payment on what is owed to the objector/challengers for the 2007/2008 objection/challenge period. As usual, UPTE has sent along a letter with seemingly dire, veiled implications. If I didn't know any better, I'd think that this was written by some sleazy lawyer trying to discourage, scare and intimidate me from exercising my legal right to object and challenge.

You will, quote, "forfiet membership benefits and rights". Pathetic legal babble and trash is what this is. As an objector/challenger you do give up the right to sign up for a union credit card, buy UPTE pet insurance, the UPTE Health Club Discount, the UPTE Flower Discount and a whole host of other UPTE sponsored benefits. I did not find the UPTE dating service but maybe this will be a new future UPTE benefit or right for lonely UPTE members. You do not forfeit any raises or benefits called for by the UPTE contract.

Did you read in that letter that "Any other costs incurred by non-member protesters or challengers, including their own attorney's fees, preparation and travel will be the sole responsibility of the non-member"? The fact is that no one who has objected and/or challenged has ever had to hire an attorney, pay attorney fees, provide evidence, attend the hearing or do anything at all. You can do this if you wish but you are not required to do so. It is UPTE that has to prove it's case, hire their attorneys, pay for the hearing, pay for travel costs and if they don't prove their case, you will receive additional money.

If you have sent an objection/challenge letter for the 2007/2008 period and do not receive payment by September 30, let me know. I hope that UPTE and it's attorney's will be glad to take the time to see that you are fully compensated. If not, you can file a charge with the state labor board and I'll be happy to give you the benefit of my experience with this to ensure that you receive justice.

I am continuing to gather signatures on petitions that will allow us to vote UPTE out. As of now, we have almost reached the 10% level but it will take 30% of research workers to sign before a vote is held. You cannot sign if you are a TX or HX worker (if you're not sure, look at the UPTE deduction on your paycheck, only RX signatures are valid). Download the petition at http://www.justvoteuc.org/DecertificationPetion.html and mail it to:

Just Vote uc PO Box 26847 San Diego CA 92126

If I've ever helped you in the past, the best way you can repay me for all my efforts is to send me a signed petition along with the signatures of other RX workers. I beg of you all, please help me out in this effort. Thank you.

Werner