STRIKES
A labor strike is when unionized employees withhold their labor from an employer for an unspecified amount of time. Strikes are often accompanied by picket lines and disruption. The employer is not required to continue to pay employees wages or continue to make contributions to benefits during a strike. During a strike, a company may replace some or all strikers, sometimes permanently, depending on the reason for the strike.
Strikes are costly to communities, our customers, and especially for employees who lose pay. During a strike, you may not be able to come to the dealership and may be expected by USWU, IUJAT to walk a picket line. While federal law protects your right to say “no” to striking, USWU, IUJAT may punish you anyways with fines for not going on strike.
Some commonly asked questions on strikes:
If the union calls a strike during bargaining, would Ciocca have to agree to its proposals?
No, Ciocca has the right to accept or reject union proposals and Ciocca also has the right to continue operations during a strike.
When might the union call a strike?
Unions can generally call labor strikes if they are not getting their demands met in the course of negotiating a contract with an employer. A strike is the strongest leverage a union can use to push an employer to agree to its proposals at the bargaining table. A union can ask associates to strike as soon as it is certified as the bargaining representative of the group.
How long do strikes last?
A strike has no set duration. Some strikes last one day, and some strikes last for over a year. There is no way of predicting how long a strike may last. Every situation is different.
If the union calls a strike, will I still receive my pay and benefits?
While on strike, you do not get paid by your employer. And you are responsible for paying the whole monthly premium to keep your health insurance going. You would be entitled to COBRA benefits, but you have to pay the entire insurance premium without Ciocca contributions. Insurance coverage through COBRA is more expensive than what you currently pay. In New Jersey, striking workers must wait 14 days before they are eligible to receive unemployment benefits.
If the union calls a strike, can I continue to work?
Yes, you have the right to cross the picket line and continue to work. However, the union may fine or penalize its members for crossing the picket line.