On Friday, January 6, 2012, our Expedited Mediation Process is scheduled to end. If we are unable to reach a Tentative Agreement (TA) with management, we would return to the previous Mediation process that we were engaged in prior to Expedited Mediation.

If our Negotiating Committee does reach a Tentative Agreement on January 6, 2012, there are several steps to ensure every Member has an opportunity to ask questions and fully understand any changes they would be voting on in a TA.

First, the elected Members of the Master Executive Council (MEC) will meet to discuss the merits of the TA. The discussion will include if the Agreement should be presented to the Membership for a vote and will also determine if the MEC recommends a vote for or against the TA.

Shortly after the MEC reviews the TA, details of the Agreement will be published on our website, along with the MEC recommendation. If the MEC approves the TA for a Membership vote, we proceed with voting procedures. If the MEC determines the TA should not be presented to the Membership or if Membership votes against the Agreement, we return to the previous Mediation process.

The Negotiating Committee will go on a Tentative Agreement roadshow, traveling to every Council to explain the terms being presented for a vote and answer any Member questions.

A comprehensive explanation of the TA would be sent to the home of every Member.

There will be an approximately 30-day time period for Membership ratification. If the Membership ratifies the TA with a majority of the ballots cast (at least 50% plus one) the TA becomes our new Collective Bargaining Agreement. If the TA receives 50% or less of the ballots cast, our Negotiations return to the previous Mediation schedule.

If a TA is presented for a Membership Vote, be sure to attend a roadshow or speak with your Local Council Officers about the terms being voted upon. Do not believe hearsay or rumors on the line and social media. Cast an informed vote by reading the information provided by AFA and asking questions about the TA from a reliable source. This opportunity is too important to be duped into voting against your own self-interest.