Former Guild president Linda Foley on the BJ sale

post sent to Paula A. Schleis from Linda Foley, former pres. Of the Newspaper Guild.


1. Even though Gatehouse doesn’t have to accept the contract, they do have to recognize the union once a majority of the new workforce is composed of workers from the former employer, the union is considered the representative of employees in the new workforce. (Because the Beacon is a daily newspaper, this is a likely scenario.). That means working conditions cannot be changed without the union’s agreement. An obligation to bargain a new contract also attaches. I know that’s not much consolation for losing hard-fought benefits, but it does mean you are not powerless.

2. Health insurance — They are obligated by law to continue your insurance for 18 months (I think) after the “qualifying” event that caused you to lose your benefits. You must pay the premiums, but it would be at the group rate. You do not have to pay a premium until 45 days after the “qualifying” event.

3. Any grievances, unfair labor practice charges, EEO charges, etc. attach to the new employer if they are not resolved before the hand-off.

4. Any “anti-union animus” demonstrated by the employer in its “hiring” should be called out and prosecuted.