THE UNION AND FUD (FEAR, UNCERTAINTY and DOUBT)

The WFSE has a strategy of using Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt (FUD) to influence employees. This is documented in the Union Shop Steward’s handbook, Appendix F, strategy #9. (AFSCME Shop Steward’s handbook, Appendix F)

The WFSE supported, even helped draft, the Personnel Systems Reform Act of 2002.

The Reform Act stripped away the existing Merit System Rule protections for employees.

The Reform Act greatly relaxed prohibitions on contracting out.

The Union has consistently campaigned about “loss of seniority rights”, “loss of jobs to contracting out”, “loss of layoff rights”, “health care benefits”, “wages”, suggesting that without the Union’s help, the employee is helpless.

Does it seem like the Union is being honest raising fears about the very issues it helped give away in the Reform Act?

The Union Contract has NO provisions controlling or prohibiting contracting out. The newly implemented Personnel Systems Reform Act law prevails.

Did the Union tell you that the raises in the contract are subject to Legislative approval and funding?

Has the Union appealed to FUD or have they provided complete reliable information that you can use to make rational decisions about union support and ratification of the contract?

Has the Union suggested that you will have no rights and protections without the union?

Do you have sufficient accurate information to make union and employment decisions?

Is the FUD factor alive and well?

The information on these web pages is intended for informational and educational purposes only. You are encouraged to research these issues for yourself and come to your own conclusions. It is not legal advice. You should consult with legal counsel about your specific situation. The National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation may be of assistance at www.nrtw.org