May 13, 2005 - Congressman Adam Smith (D-Tacoma) made the following statement today concerning Alaska Airlines’ decision to stop negotiations with the ramp-workers at Sea-Tac International Airport and hire a non-union contractor to replace them.

“I am deeply disappointed that the management of Alaska Airlines has chosen to stop negotiations with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Local 2202, and instead outsource the ramp-worker jobs to non-union employees from a global contractor.  In doing so, Alaska Airlines has displaced nearly 500 longtime Alaska Airlines employees.  Until recently, Alaska Airlines has had an outstanding record on union rights and worked cooperatively with the unions in its company.

I believe the issues that were being negotiated - including higher wages, affordable benefits and basic worker rights - are very important issues for the American workforce and for the health and economic stability of our local communities.  Furthermore, it was my sincere hope that this process would allow for mutually agreeable solutions to matters affecting businesses and livelihoods. 

Today’s announcement is an unfortunate blow to our local economy. I know first hand the importance of the ability for workers to unionize. My father was a ramp-worker at Sea-Tac for United Airlines and it was the union that helped ensure the well-being of my family when we needed assistance the most. Many of the people who have lost their job today live in my District and I pledge to work with these displaced workers and their union representatives to help provide whatever assistance that I can.

I urge Alaska Airlines’ management to reopen negotiations with the union and work on an equitable solution for both parties and create local jobs for local people.”