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Home » What Unions Do » The Election Process

The Election Process

Are you considering joining UFCW Local 152 but want to learn more about the election process? You’ve come to the right place.

Step One: Signing Cards

UFCW Local 152 must prove to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) that there is sufficient interest among the employees at a location to have an election. We require at least 60% of the employees to sign these “Representation Cards” before it will begin the election.

Remember:

  • Signing a card does NOT make you a union member.
  • Signing a card does NOT mean you pay dues.
  • These cards are NOT seen by your employer.

Step Two: File Petition

When 60% of employees have signed cards, we will file a petition with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), requesting that the NLRB take steps to conduct a secret ballot election to be held in your workplace. When we file the petition, we will specify which groups of employees we feel should be included in the vote.

Step Three: Election

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) will conduct a secret ballot election in your workplace. Management is not allowed near the voting area and you do not put your name on the ballot, it is entirely anonymous. When the election is over, the NLRB will count the ballots. If the union has received a majority of the votes, your employer will be required by law to bargain a contract in good faith.

NOTE: This election does not make you a union member. Winning this election is the first step to giving UFCW Local 152 representatives and coworkers at your job site the opportunity to bargain a contract.

Step Four: Questionnaires

Each employee will have the opportunity to contribute ideas for the contract. Your voice will decide which issues should be addressed. Some issues include wages, benefits, pension, dignity & respect, etc.

Step Five: Negotiations

Some of your fellow employees will serve on the Negotiating Committee and sit at the bargaining table with the Union’s professional negotiator. You will be taking an active part of the bargaining process.

Step Six: Vote on Contract

When the contract has been negotiated, YOU will vote whether to accept it or not. Only after you have voted to accept a contract will you become a union member and begin to pay union dues.

Remember, YOU have the right to join a union… IT’S THE LAW.

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