Union members often debate issues surrounding union dues. Some argue that part timers at low wage levels working few hours should pay lower dues than higher paid full time employees. This seems fair. But others counter that part timers are targets for employer exploitation, file more grievances, and are, thus, at least as big a drain on union resources as the representation of full timers can be. This is also a reasonable position. Currently Local 401 has a primarily "flat" dues system reflecting the latter argument.

Nothing, however, is written in stone. Unions are democratic organizations. A proposed union dues restructuring in recent years was brought to the union membership for consideration. It would have lowered dues for low hours, lower pay part timers. In a secret ballot vote, it was rejected.

Local 401 has a union dues committee. It's mandate is to monitor member views regarding union dues. The emergence of another proposed change to union dues is always possible. Should you have strong feelings about union dues, please contact us. Your view does make a difference!