In The Spirit of Cooperation

Although one election season may now be behind us, I recognize that December is a time when many of our local unions conduct their elections. For those newly elected Secretary/
Secretary-Treasurers, and for those remaining in office that might need a gentle reminder, I dedicate this message to you.

The following is designed to provide clarification on the two most common issues that arise between our local unions and the General Office.

Quarterly Reports
In order for the International to have accurate membership information,
Quarterly Reports must be filed in a timely manner. Article Nineteen, Section 7 of the International Constitution and Bylaws indicates that the Quarterly Report must be filed no later than thirty days following the end of the quarter. Therefore, Quarterly Reports are due no later than April 30, July 30, October 30 and January 30 of each year.

If the number of changes for a local union does not fit in the space provided on the Quarterly Report, it is acceptable to write, "see attached list" on the form and attach such a list. It is not necessary to submit multiple Quarterly Reports in order to accommodate a large number of changes.

Reinstatement Process
Very often former members of the Alliance decide that they want to become
active again with a local union and they seek reinstatement. The process is covered in detail in Article Twenty-One, Section 14 of the International Constitution and Bylaws, but essentially there are three steps in the process.

First, the local union to which the individual wishes to reinstate sends a
written request for approval to the General Secretary-Treasurer indicating
the individual’s name, social security/insurance number and the reason for the original loss of membership. Second, once approved, a letter is sent to the local union indicating said approval and detailing the amount of back per capita that is owed to the International. The amount owed commences with the quarter in which the individual ceased to be a member except in the case of an honorable withdrawal, which is limited to a maximum of eight quarters. Third, the local union submits a check drawn on its general fund (no personal checks) in the amount indicated.

Hopefully this has provided some clarification for these two issues, but
if you have any further questions, or questions on any other subjects relating to the office of the General Secretary-Treasurer, please do not hesitate to contact me.

It is my sincere wish that the arrival of this issue of the Official Bulletin
finds you reflecting on a positive 2006 and may you and your families enjoy
much health and happiness throughout the upcoming year.