New Website and Networking for IAM

The 2009 Communications Conference challenge is to "build an ever expanding audience for this union's message". The new website http://www.goiam.org focuses attention on the issues that are most important to IAM members and working families. In addition, IAM launched a Facebook and Twitter Page! Visit www.facebook.com &  http://twitter.com/MachinistsUnion

Programs, Resources Available for Unemployed Members

If you are without work and facing financial difficulties, visit the IAM’s Unemployment Resources page on www.goiam.org for a list of available resources. The page provides information on health insurance alternatives, employment assistance, benefits, job search tools, retraining, and help with mortgage payments, creditors, and debt.

Also available is the Union Privilege Union SAFE Program. Eligible union members can apply for Union SAFE grant money (which does not need to be repaid) to help combat the problems in today's economy. Grants are available for job loss, hospital expenses, disability, and college savings. The Union SAFE program also provides credit counseling and the “Save My Home” hotline for union members facing foreclosure.

For more information, visit Unemployment Resources at www.goiam.org.
 

Corporate ‘Compromise’ Would Gut Free Choice Act

A trio of well-known corporations are trying to derail the Employee Free Choice Act with their own watered down version of labor “reform.” The CEOs of Starbucks, Costco and Whole Foods are shopping the halls of Capitol Hill with a bill they claim is a “fair compromise” to the Employee Free Choice Act.

The Employee Free Choice Act does exactly what the title of the bill says it does: puts the power of choice into the hands of the employees – not companies. Employees, not companies, will be able to decide for themselves whether to join a union. CEOs will have to make room at the table when it comes time to talk wages and benefits.

Click here for more information on the Employee Free Choice Act and to send a letter to your legislator that it’s time to restore America’s middle class by passing the Employee Free Choice Act.

United Healthcare Introduces Railroad lnformation Depot

United Healthcare has a new website designed specifically for all Railroad members. This new website can be accessed at www.mvuhc.com/~roups/railroadinfo by all members regardless of their medical carrier, and provides important information you may need as an active, pre-retiree or retired Railroad member.