Sisters and Brothers:
Over the past few days, many companies have notified us regarding their compliance with the federal vaccine mandate. Most companies are providing opportunities for our members to request medical or religious exceptions. If your company is offering those, and you plan on doing so, it would be best to start that process as soon as you can. As written, all employees must be fully vaccinated by December 8th. That means the last vaccine needs to be administered before November 24th. Depending on which vaccine you get (If you plan to get vaccinated), you may need to start the process no later than October 27th.
The union’s position is no one should have to choose between the shot or their job. While we strongly recommend that our members get vaccinated. We also understand that our members have the right to make that decision on their own, based on their personal medical or religious beliefs. Now that vaccinations have become a federal mandate, federal law takes over. Federal law overrules any contract.
Currently, United Airlines has started terminations, and our sister District, District 141, is planning on arbitrating cases of those who were denied religious or medical exemptions. We will also defend our members’ rights and will be seeking guidance from legal counsel. As we get more advice, we will post that information for you.
Sincerely and fraternally,
David Supplee
PRESIDENT-DIRECTING
GENERAL CHAIR
