Close Vote Swings In Favor Of AFL-CIO Affiliate

TSA employees across the country have elected the American Federation of Government Employees as their exclusive union representative with a 8903-8447 vote over the National Treasury Employees Union.

AFGE National President John Gage issued the following statement Thursday:

"We are obviously thrilled with the election results, but more importantly are delighted that the Transportation Security Officers now will have the full union representation they rightly deserve. AFGE thanks the TSOs for their support and faith in our union.

"AFGE anticipates developing a cooperative and cohesive relationship with TSA as we move to forge a collective bargaining contract that TSOs so desperately need. We will be reaching out to TSOs at airports across the country for their input as to what they would like to see in a contract. We recognize that TSOs in small airports have different concerns from those at large ones. With one nationwide contract, it is essential that we cover all the bases.

"The TSA workforce has proven itself time and time again to be dedicated to the DHS mission, and one that cares about the work it does. AFGE is here to make sure that they have the tools and support to accomplish that mission. We have long argued that only a professional and highly motivated workforce can provide the security this country needs. AFGE is very proud to have stood behind TSOs for nine years, and is honored to stand beside them now as full partners in this fight for fair workplace protections. AFGE looks forward to a strong working relationship with TSA and a better work life for America’s TSOs"

FMI: www.tsaunion.com