With today’s announcement from management that the awarding of Extended Leaves of Absence (ELOA) and Enhanced Voluntary Furloughs (EVF) will be additionally delayed, the MEC knows that Flight Attendants will be greatly disappointed. Though it is certainly understandable that there are complexities around the process of determining staffing levels, many of us are eager to have some definite news during this period of relative uncertainty. It is unfortunate that this delay may add to feelings of apprehension and unease.
Despite the delay in furlough mitigation awards, management’s intention to review all of the information available to them and make a decision that minimizes the disruption to the lives of Flight Attendants is a rational course of action. The situation is further complicated by the ongoing discussions within Congress for a clean extension to the Payroll Support Program (PSP). Should Congress pass an extension to the PSP, it would be further frustrating to everyone if management had to adjust or roll back any decisions that had already made and communicated.
Payroll Support Program (PSP) Extension
Our Union is working around the clock at all levels to extend the PSP to keep Flight Attendants and aviation workers in our jobs, connected to our healthcare and providing essential service to our country, as it has over the last five months. It was anticipated that there would have been a definite outcome on the extension by last Friday. However, that is not the case and the discussions in Washington, D.C. are ongoing. The PSP Extension the best solution for our jobs, our airline, our communities, and our country.
Our focus as an entire Union and industry is focused on pressuring Congress to get to the table and negotiate a COVID-19 relief bill. Every Flight Attendant can make a difference.
SENATE: (888) 848-4824
Sample Script:
I am a constituent calling on Senator [NAME] to save my job as an essential worker and airline employee. An overwhelming majority of Congress supports an extension to the Payroll Support Program for aviation workers to avoid massive job loss and to ensure there’s no cancellation of service to small communities. The Executive Orders signed over the weekend will not save my job. We need a COVID-19 relief package with our payroll support passed TODAY. Our jobs are on the line right now and millions are hurting without this relief! Keep us connected to our jobs, paychecks, & healthcare. We are counting on you. Thank you.
EAP Assistance
These are extremely difficult and stressful times. Please remember that your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Committee is always available as a support resource. Contact information for your Local EAP Committee can be found by clicking here.