When employers try to stop healthcare workers from forming a union, they say many things that just aren’t true. Here’s the truth about forming a union in SEIU-UHW:
How much are union dues, and when do union workers start paying dues?
SEIU-UHW dues are 2% of base pay, with no dues on overtime pay or shift differentials. You will not pay any dues until you vote to ratify your contract — so you’ll lock in your guaranteed raises before you pay any dues. Dues cannot be raised without a vote by all union members.
Why do employers talk so much about dues when workers try to unionize?
Stoking fear about union dues is a standard trick bosses use to try to scare workers about unions. The reality is that management gets scared when workers form a union and gain the power to win higher pay, better benefits, improved working conditions, and a strong voice on the job.
Will I lose flexibility after forming a union?
No. Employers often say that union workers lose the flexibility to speak directly to managers about things like scheduling, staffing, and workloads. This is simply not true. Unionized workers still have every right to speak directly to the employer about workplace issues. The difference is that healthcare workers who join SEIU-UHW have the strength and resources of a 120,000-member healthcare workers’ organization to ensure their voices and concerns are heard and addressed.
Will we have to go on strike if we form a union?
Employers often try to scare workers about strikes. The fact is that strikes are very rare: About 98% of union contracts are settled without a strike. Strikes only happen if a majority of your co-workers in the union bargaining unit at your employer vote for one.
Why do employers talk so much about strikes when workers try to unionize?
Management is scared of strikes because strikes give union members the power to win a strong contract with major improvements to jobs, wages, and benefits. Just look at the three-day unfair labor practice strike of SEIU-UHW members at Kaiser Permanente. That action ultimately led to a contract settlement with 21% raises over four years, the protection of fully employer-paid family healthcare coverage and pensions, major improvements to staffing, strong job security protections, and more.
Are employers legally allowed to cut wages or benefits before workers unionize and bargain a contract?
Management cannot cut wages or benefits to retaliate against workers for forming a union.
Do I have to tell my manager whether I support the union?
No, you have no obligation to share anything about your unionization efforts with management.
Can I be fired or disciplined for working to form our union?
No, your right to form a union is fully protected by law. You can talk to co-workers about forming a union anywhere you’re allowed to talk about non-work topics. You also have the right to distribute union literature, wear union buttons, and encourage other employees to support forming a union.
