Reduction of forces / Temporary cuts

Hello Brothers and Sisters,

Currently there are members at various sites within the local who are currently undergoing temporary cuts to their hours and have contacted me inquiring what the term "reduction of forces" means and how does it apply to their particular situation. I have taken the liberty to shed some light on "reduction of forces" in hopes that the members can come out with a better understanding on the subject and in what circumstances does the term reduction of forces, usually in the seniority article apply.

For all practical purposes, there isn't any real difference between RIF and layoffs. There are some subtle differences, though.

A layoff is when a particular employee, or a specific group of employees, is taken off the payroll, usually because there is a lack of work. The chance to be rehired in the future is a real possibility if the economical situation of the employer or the employer's client change.

A RIF on the other hand, is the total elimination of jobs or positions. Again, RIFs usually happen because of a lack of work or the inability to pay everyone doing a particular job or task. Through a RIF, the employer can terminate all jobs related to the product. Most of the time RIFs are selective, meaning that not all of the jobs will be eliminated. Usually, in your contract the decision is based on factors like an employee's past performance, the ability to perform the remaining job or jobs and "seniority". Temporary cuts to hours based on the operational needs of the employer's client do not apply in regards to the reduction of forces term in the contract. Although the practice to cut hours based solely on seniority usually does apply in some cases, you would have to check your particular CBA to see if there is additional language further elaborating on the subject. Hope this helps...

Azaveous Oliver
Local 100 President

U.S. Census Bureau Security Officer killed

SUITLAND, MD - A Security Officer working at the U.S. Census Bureau was fatally shot by accused kidnapper Ronald Anderson before firing on another person and leading police on a car chase before finally being gunned down by police.

It is reported that Anderson rammed the Census Bureau gate with his car and shot the Security Officer, Lawrence Buckner, at least once in the chest.

The Officer approached Anderson’s car after he observed the man arguing with someone, police said.

Bucker, a five year veteran at the Census Bureau and an employee of Masters Security, passed away from his wounds.

Masters was not available for comment.

The kidnapped woman, who was found safe, was later identified as Anderson’s wife.

Anderson is in police custody and is expected to survive to stand trial for his actions.  Anderson was free on bail at the time of the attack for drug possession and assault in another matter.

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Election Questions

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Many of you have inquired about Steward Elections, Ratification Election and so forth.  Rather than answer each question individually I have decided to answer them here for the benefit of all readers.

Executive and Steward positions:  All elections will follow the International Constitution and By-laws which directs elections to take place in January through February 15.  There will be no exceptions.

All elections will be conducted by the Local Executive Staff (Elections Committees will be drawn from the affected group) and if possible will be conducted through the mail.

All ratifications will be conducted by the Local Executive Staff and if possible will be conducted through the mail.

Any member wishing to protest an election must do so within the strict requirements laid out in the International Constitution and By-laws.

Any positions that require filling during the time between elections will be selected by the Local Executive Board from a pool of volunteers.  Such appointees will serve out the remainder of the term until the next regular election.

Question concerning this should be directed to myself at:

mhough@spfpa.org.

By David L. Hickey, International President

I am truly honored and excited to announce the International Union, Security, Police and Fire Professionals of America (SPFPA) will be hosting its Sixteenth Constitutional Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada on April 27, 28, 29, 2015. The International Executive Board and staff have worked very hard to make this Convention the most memorable event ever.

At this Convention, we will work together to prepare our great Union for years to come. I’m extremely proud of the success we have achieved as a family over the last fifteen years, and look forward to future challenges as we “Keep Moving Forward!”

I want to personally thank you for your support. Together we share a vision and together we make a difference. God bless you and yours!

As International President, I promise.....”I will not let you down!”