Jay Wedman Q&A

As this organizing drive continues, I'm seeing an influx of questions regarding how and when the vote is going to happen. Below, you'll find the next installment in my ongoing series of emails addressing your vital inquiries regarding your future with OSG and how best you can shape it.

Q: When will the Vote happen?

A: Soon, we hope. We are currently waiting for the ruling from the Region 12 NLRB on how the vote will be administered. It is our understanding Region 12 NLRB office has been backlogged with cases from many Starbucks organizing drives around the U.S.

Q: What time frame and distribution method has the union proposed for the Vote?

A: M.E.B.A. has proposed that the election ballots be sent to your home and the vote to take place over at least a 5-month period giving everyone the opportunity to cast the vote at home without the threat of any interference.

Q: What time frame and distribution method has the company proposed?

A: The Company would like the ballots to be sent to the vessels over a 2-month period. M.E.B.A. believes this is not only too quick for all officers to be guaranteed a chance to vote, but poses a significant risk of the appearance of impropriety and possible interference.

Q: How many choices will be on the ballot?

A: Three choices. Your best choice M.E.B.A. The worst choice, remaining unrepresented, leaves you to the whims and desires of the company. The last choice is the other union, but we are better positioned to improve working conditions at OSG and improve the long-term success of those current OSG deck officers who will move to other carriers down the road.

Q: What happens if there is no clear winner in the first vote?

A: A runoff election will be held. The winner must win by a simple majority, if no one wins on the first election there will be a runoff election held between the two highest vote count choices. Keep those questions coming and I look forward to seeing you in person the next time I am out on your vessel. Be safe out there and keep it between the Anchors! Captain Jay R. Wedman

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