Business Manager Reports

December 2021

Business Manager Report

CBS Corp: 

11/08-11/22/21 – BM’s and International Reps, committee members met with the company in Philadelphia for negotiations.

11/30/21 – BM sent out letter to membership updating them on the status of negotiations. Both sides are looking to schedule dates in early 2022.

CBS News:

12/08/21 – Company moving CBSN to Studio 57 and management would like IBEW to conduct training. Matter ongoing.

CBS Newspath:

08/31/21 – Union filed grievance over bargaining unit work being performed by non-bargaining unit personnel. Company responded to Union letter on December 2nd providing an update. Update was returned on December 7th, matter ongoing.

CBS Sports:

12/05/21 – Site Visit – Eagles vs Jets. BR met with members and management.

CBSN:

12/08/21 – BM, BR and Counsel held meeting with committee members over status of contract. Matter ongoing.

WCBS:

09/20/21 – Member sent a letter to HR claiming discrimination. Company looking to close out investigation with meeting either on 12/13 or 12/14. Matter ongoing.

COE:

10/5/21 – Union spoke with member who has been suspended without paying pending an investigation. Final settlement agreement pending signature. Matter ongoing.

Fox Sports:

10/8/21 – Union spoke with member regarding workman’s compensation case. Company reached out on November 18th for an update, matter ongoing.

HBO:

11/04/21 – Member notified Union that contractual raise was not implemented. Matter was resolved on November 11th, Increases retroactively implemented with next check.

11/11/21 – Error in payroll regarding dues deductions. Matter has been resolved with members and payroll.

WNJU:

12/02/21 – Union held a meeting with member over equipment. Company issued a warning letter. Union reviewing letter.

12/08/21 – Union has been notified that the company may be changing its sick leave policy for 2022. Matter ongoing.

WPIX:

09/22/21 – Union and company discussed outstanding grievances with regard to SL4 and preference of shifts. Company officially denied grievance on November 4th. Matter being advanced to arbitration.

11/03/21 – Committee reviewing handbook policies. Union reviewed with the committee on 11/17 internally and discussed with company on 12/1 in negotiations.

12/1 – Company and Union discussed matter regarding member who was docked vacation day. Matter ongoing.

12/1, 12/2, 12/3/21 – Both sides met for another round of negotiations. Next date to meet is not scheduled yet.

MSG:

11/29/21 – Another round of negotiations. Parties are scheduled to meet again on 11/29.

MGM:

10/21/21 Union sent over drafted CBA to the negotiating committee. Union sent over document to the company on November 8th, matter ongoing.

Team System One/ UN:

12/01/21 – Union spoke with member and company regarding work that is not performed in the agreement. Matter appears closed.

WXTV: 

11/03/21 – Union sent letter to company regarding safety issues and concerns with regard to field technicians. Matter appears to have gotten better with field crews at night.

12/01/21 – Union sent grievance to company. Matter was resolved for one member but there are still that remain outstanding.

12/07/21 – Union and Company meet for negotiations.

12/08/21 – Company announced in a memo that they plan to return employees back to work as on-site or hybrid by January 10th.

12/09/21 – Union sent an email to company that any self-evaluation instituted by the company is a subject of bargaining.

Sony:

09/27/21 – Union sent an information request letter to company and requested a Labor Management Meeting. Union attorney spoke with company on 12/7. Investigation is still ongoing but expects to conclude soon.

Audacy (National Radio):

12/07/21 – Member notified Union that there will be benefit changes in 2022 to parental paid leave, re-instituting the 401k match program, and additional vacation time off.

Tele-Measurements:

12/06/21 – Management sent the Union an investigation that concluded regarding member and supervisor. No discipline was imposed but Union is reviewing the matter.

November 2021

Business Manager Report

CBS Corp:

10/22/21 – BM updated the membership via email regarding CBS negotiations. BM’s and International Representatives met on October 19th and 20th with the company to exchange contract proposals and set committee assignments.

11/08/21 – BM’s and International Reps, committee members leave for negotiations in Philadelphia for 2 weeks.

CBS News:

09/29/21 – Union filed grievance over maintenance work being performed by member in unit. Grievance prep call was on 11/5. Waiting to schedule dates with company over meeting.

10/11/21 – BM’s and Labor Relations held a meeting to review final ICAP settlement. November 3rd, Union awaiting company response before settlement is paid to affected members.

10/28/21 – BR spoke with Management over anniversary increases owed to members.

CBS Sports:

10/31/21 – Site Visit – Bengals vs Jets. BM and BR met with members and management.

CBSN:

10/25/21 – BM, BR and Counsel notified the unit that a wage increase of 3% will go effect immediately and retro back to October 1, 2021.

WCBS:

09/20/21 – Member sent a letter to HR claiming discrimination. HR has been in touch to conduct investigation. Meeting was held with Union and Company on October 29. Matter remains open.

COE:

10/5/21 – Union spoke with member who has been suspended without paying pending an investigation. Matter ongoing.

10/11/21 – Member’s vacation allowance is being looked into after transferring from different local on west coast. Matter resolved.

11/02/21 – Member questioned testing on dark weeks for studio shows. Union is reviewing matter.

Fox Sports:

10/8/21 – Union spoke with member regarding workman’s compensation case. Union sent email to Labor Relations on October 22nd and the company responded with the requested information on October 29th. Matter ongoing.

10/17/21 – Site Visit – Rams vs Giants. BM and BR met with members and management.

10/24/21 – Site Visit – Panthers vs Giants. BM and BR met with members and management.

10/27/21 – Union sent letter to International regarding HEZ Camera position being moved and issues/concerns with catering on meal breaks for members.

HBO: 

11/04/21 – Member notified Union that contractual raise was not implemented. Matter ongoing.

WNJU:

09/13/21 – Meeting was scheduled for September 13th. Meeting was regarding bargaining unit work being performed by member of management.

WPIX:

10/18/21 – Company and Union meet to discuss ENG and Reporters riding together. Implementation originally slated for the Fall. Now being moved to January.

10/28/21 – Union met for another round of negotiations.  Dates have been scheduled for the first week of December to meet again.

11/01/21 – Union filed grievance about non-bargaining unit member shooting footage. Matter ongoing.

11/03/21 – Committee reviewing handbook policies. Union setting up a call before responding to the company.

09/22/21 – Union and company discussed outstanding grievances with regard to SL4 and preference of shifts. Company officially denied grievance on November 4th. Matter ongoing.

MSG: 

10/26/21 – Union and Company met for negotiations.  Parties are scheduled to meet again on 11/04.

11/4/21 – Union and Company met for negotiations. Parties are scheduled to meet again on 11/29.

MGM:

10/21/21 Union sent over drafted CBA to the negotiating committee. Union is looking to finalize document to send to the company as well as negotiation dates in December.

WNET: 

11/03/21 – Member lost benefits due to reduction in hours. Union is reviewing matter.

WXTV: 

10/21/21 – Negotiations continued. Next session is Dec 7.

11/03/21 – Union has drafted a letter they intend to send to company regarding safety issues and concerns regarding field technicians.

Sony:

09/27/21 – Union sent an information request letter to company and requested a Labor Management Meeting. Legal counsel did a follow up with attorney on November 1. Matter ongoing.

Office: 

11/1-11/04/21 – BM, BR partook in IBEW Membership Development conference virtually.

October 2021

Business Manager Report

CBS Corp:

10/05/21 – BM’s and International Reps reviewed proposals with committee members. Union will be meeting again on October 18th to finalize list of proposals.

CBS News:

09/29/21 – Union drafting grievance over maintenance work being performed by member.

09/29/21 – During a Labor-Management meeting, the Union discussed over scheduling, staffing and changes to work. Follow up meeting is scheduled for 10/13.

10/11/21 – BM’s and Labor Relations held a meeting to review final ICAP settlement. Matter is coming to close.

CBS Sports:

09/19/21 – (Site Visit) BR spoke with members at Jets vs Patriots game.

10/03/21 – (Site Visit) BM and BR spoke with Steward and members at Jets vs Titans game. Union reviewing with company possible safety issue with one of the Camera positions at Metlife Stadium.

CBSN:

10/11/21 – BM’s, International and Labor Relations held a meeting to review company drafted proposals. Matter ongoing.

09/24/21 – Union held a meeting with HR and Management over equipment that was reported damaged. Matter is pending.

COE:

10/5/21 – Union spoke with member who has been suspended without paying pending an investigation. Matter ongoing.

10/11/21 – Member’s vacation allowance is being looked into after transfer from different local on west coast. Matter ongoing.

Fox Sports:

09/28/21 – Company issued a correction to Flex Plan contributions and retroactive payment would be included in the next payroll cycle.

10/6/21 – Fox Sports paid cancellation fee to members who lost out on NY Yankees advancing to ALDS.

10/8/21 – Union spoke with member regarding workman’s compensation case. Matter remains ongoing.

WNJU:

09/13/21 – Meeting was scheduled for September 13th to discuss bargaining unit work being performed by member of management.

WPIX:

09/21/21 – Union and Company met on September 21 to continue negotiations. Additional bargaining sessions were held on 9/22 and October 1. Next session is scheduled for October 28.

09/22/21 – Union and company discussed outstanding grievances with regard to SL4 and preference of shifts. Matter ongoing.

MSG: 

9/23/21 – Union and Company met on 9/23 for another round of negotiations. Parties are scheduled to meet again on 10/26.

MGM:

9/20/21 Union met to commence negotiations on 9/20/21 with company.

WXTV: 

10/6/21 – Negotiations continued between the Union and the Company. Next session is October 21.

WXTV Producers:

9/14/21 – Negotiations scheduled for 9/14 were canceled.

10/8/21 – Union and Company met to negotiate. Both sides are trying to schedule new dates towards end of the month.

Sony:

9/27/21 – Union issued an information request letter to company and requesting a Labor Management Meeting.

Office:

10/4/21 – BM, BR and International Reps participated in nationwide Stations meeting regarding vaccines, workplace safety and committee reports.

September 2021

Business Manager’s Report

CBS Corp: 

8/26/21 – BM’s and International Reps reviewed results from the surveys members completed to formulate proposals for the upcoming negotiations.

9/7/21 – BM’s and International Reps reviewed proposals. Next meeting is scheduled for October 5 with key committee members.

9/10/21 – ViacomCBS has mandated that employees must be fully vaccinated no later than November 8, 2021.

CBS News:

9/8/21 – Company unveiled See It Now Studios, a new content provider of news and documentary programming to be led by Susan Zirinsky.

CBS Newspath:

8/31/21- Union filed grievance over bargaining unit work being performed by non-bargaining unit personnel. Matter ongoing.

WCBS:

Member has drafted a letter to HR claiming discrimination. Union reviewing material before member sends.

CBS Sports:

8/18/21, Site Visit, BM and BR met with members and management at the Northern Trust PGA Tour event in NJ.

COE:

8/23/21 – Longtime employees with company met with BM, BR and Counsel to discuss possible retaliation and harassment case from management. Matter ongoing.

8/30/21 – BM and ABM spoke about letter being written up for two members’ files. Union looking to respond. Matter ongoing. (TX)

Fox Sports: 

9/10/21 – Site Visit – BR met with members and Management for Never Forget Game between Yankees vs Mets at Citi Field.

9/12/21 – Site Visit – BR met with members and Management at Week 1 (NY Giants vs Denver Broncos).

HBO: 

9/10/2021- Company issued a statement that effective October 11, 2021, all US-based employees entering WarnerMedia office locations will be required to demonstrate proof of having been fully vaccinated for COVID-19.

9/2/21 – BM, BR, Counsel spoke with Committee about upcoming vaccine mandate and ask to modify section of the CBA to end of the year. Union reviewing material.

System One/ UN: 

9/3/21 – System One vote passed unanimously. This is a 3-year term which includes retro, wage increases in each year and additional PTO time.

Member’s access to the UN was reinstated. BR and Counsel spoke with member on 9/10 about return to work. There is also a possible severance package. Issue is ongoing.

WNJU:

Meeting that was scheduled with management on 9/10 was moved to September 13th. Meeting was regarding bargaining unit work being performed by member of management.

WPIX:

BM, BR, Counsel, ABM and Shop Steward held a Meeting on 8/16/21 on a return to work.

MSG: 

9/9/21 – Union and Management met for another round of negotiations. Parties are scheduled to meet again on 9/23.

Prudential Center:

8/10/21 – Company issued a statement that effective Tuesday, September 7, 2021, all full-time and part-time employees must be fully vaccinated.

MGM:

9/9/21 Union sent proposals to committee to review. Union is set to meet and commence negotiations on 9/20/21 with company.

WXTV: 

8/3/21 – Company issued memo states due to current conditions, they are revisiting Return to Workplace timeline and expect to welcome back all non-essential employees through a phased return beginning in the second half of September.

8/17/21 – Negotiations commenced. Union and Company are coordinating additional negotiating dates through the end of the year.

8/26/21 – Univision adopts vaccine mandate.  The policy requires all full-time and part-time employees in the United States to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by October 2, 2021.

WXTV Producers:

9/2/21- Union and Company met for another round of negotiations. Next session is scheduled for 9/14.

Sony:

BM, BR, Counsel spoke with Negotiation Committee Member and Shop Steward over bargaining unit work being performed by non-bargaining unit personnel. Union is issuing an information request letter to company and requesting a Labor Management Meeting.

WLIW:

 8/23/21 – Company payout bonus to per diems in accordance with CBA.

Office: 

9/11 – Marked the 20th anniversary of the attacks on our country. The BM was honored to attend and participate in the Memorial Ceremony hosted by IBEW Local 3 at their headquarters. The ceremony honored and remembered the IBEW members who perished that day including our four IBEW 1212 members – Steven Jacobson, Isaias Rivera, Robert Pattison and Gerard Coppola as well as the 17 members from Local 3.

9/11/21 – IBEW President Lonnie Stephenson issued a memo that IBEW Conferences have been canceled or moved to virtual settings. Decision comes as Covid cases continue to rise. Among the conferences was the Broadcasting/ Telecommunications conference, Renew Conference and Membership Development.

 

August 2021

BUSINESS MANAGER’S REPORT

Covid-19:

7/27/21 – President Biden is expected to mandate testing for Government workers by July 29th. In NY, masks are still required for unvaccinated people in K-12 schools, public transportation and indoor gatherings specified by the CDC.

CBS CORP:

7/27/21 – Company released memo that effective July 28th. All employees are required to wear a mask when working in the Broadcast Center. Masks outdoors will remain a personal preference unless mandated.

CBS Sports:

7/19/21 – Company issued a mandate that all employees, members, production, vendors, involved with the remote productions should be fully vaccinated by August 28th.

7/21/21 – BM, BR, Member and Counsel held a meeting with HR over issue at the Golf Remote in Detroit, MI. Matter ongoing.

COE:

7/26/21 – BM and BR spoke to Company about work in the building. Company updated Union on the 28th. Matter appears closed.

CBS News:

7/20/21 – BM, BR, Counsel spoke with member about harassment in the workplace. Matter ongoing.

7/26/21 – Union sent a letter in response to a closure memo conducted by Director of Employee Relations of ViacomCBS. Matter ongoing.

CBS Newspath:

7/27/21 – Union sent letter to Labor Relations regarding examples of non-bargaining unit members performing technical work. Union expecting a response by week of August 9th.

WCBS-TV:

7/20/21 – BM, BR, Counsel spoke with member about possible discrimination case. Matter ongoing.

MDC:

7/15/21 – Member signed fully executed agreement on mutual resignation for member. Matter is now closed.

FOX SPORTS:

7/16/21 – Members ratified a 2-year extension through July of 2023. Details are 1% benefits (medical) in year one and .5% in medical, .5% 401k and 2.5% in wages in second year.

7/21/21 – Company issued a mandate that members with field access, in the press boxes, team facilities and / or close proximity to players and coaches must be vaccinated.

7/23/21 – Company issued an email that some members experienced a glitch in payroll benefits. Matter ongoing.

8/4/21 – (Site Visit) BM along with other Business Managers and International Reps met members and management at the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio.

8/4/21 – Labor Management Meeting with BM along with other Business Managers and International Reps to discuss latest 2-year extension to CBA and ongoing issues, and upcoming Fall schedule.

WPIX:

7/13/21 – Negotiations for July 14 and 15 were canceled.

8/5/21 – August 16th was scheduled for a Labor Management Meeting. Negotiation dates were also scheduled for late September and October 1.

WNET:

8/5/21 – Counsel provided update on current contract discussions. Union waiting on some information before proceeding.

WNJU:             

7/26/21 –Company responded with position on non-bargaining unit member. Union and Company expected to meet again over issue.

07/26/21 – BR, Counsel and Member held a meeting with Management, HR and legal over branded footage and policies that have been put in place. No letter or warning was issued.

WXTV:                 

07/19/21 – BR spoke with Labor Relations and HR over matter regarding premium payment for freelance members on Holiday. 7/26/21, Grievance filed on behalf of the Union for freelance members who worked July 4th but did not receive premium pay for all hours worked. Matter ongoing.

07/20/21 – BM, BR and Counsel held a Negotiating Committee call. Negotiations are expected to begin on August 17th.

WXTV Producers:

7/16/21 – Negotiations commenced.

08/05/21 – Second round of negotiations where both sides presented proposals. Next session on August 19. There are also two other sessions slated for September 2 and 14.

System One / UN:  

07/23/21 – BM, BR spoke with negotiating committee. Counsel has provided MOU on tentative 3-year term that includes retro pay, wage increases in each year and additional PTO over the term of the agreement. Both attorneys finalizing Memorandum of agreement before sending out to vote.

08/05/21 – BR and members of management met to discuss a member discharged from the United Nations. Both the Union and company are reviewing the matter closely.

Prudential Center:

08/05/21 –   BR scheduled a meeting a meeting with management to discuss plans for the Fall at the Prudential Center.  The discussion will include a review of safety protocols.  That meeting is set for August 18th.

MGM:

07/14/21 – Employees at MGM in Yonkers Raceway overwhelmingly voted in favor of representation by the IBEW 1212. National Labor Relations Board certified IBEW 1212 as the exclusive bargaining agent on July 26th.

08/05/21 – Union and negotiating committee are reviewing proposals. Union expects to contact company to set dates for negotiations early next week.

AUDACY Radio:

07/07/21 – Ballots were counted for second ratification vote. The contract passed. Union and company have signed a fully executed agreement as of July 27th.

 

July 2021

BUSINESS MANAGER’S REPORT

Covid-19:

6/15/21 – New York State is loosening all state Covid-19 safety restrictions, Gov. Cuomo announced. The move comes as a key threshold was met, with 70% plus of residents having had at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine.

CBS CORP:

6/21/21 – Company released memo that masks & social distancing for vaccinated members will be lifted. All other changes will take effect on July 6th (there will be no testing requirements for vaccinated employees, boxed lunches will no longer be provided, zoning around the building, transportation reimbursement and commuting will also cease).

CBS News:

7/07/21 – Both Company and Union have agreed to meet every other Wednesday for Labor Management session. That will be effective July 21.

WCBS-TV:

6/16/21 – Company and Union met on 6/16 regarding reporters and photographers.

MDC:

6/21/21 – Company and Union have reached a settlement on mutual resignation for member. Matter appears closed.

6/23/21 – BR and Counsel spoke with member regarding grievance being waived. On 7/6, Company reached settlement with Union to payout vacation allowance. Matter closed.

FOX SPORTS:

7/01/21 – International Reps, BM, BR held a webinar to update members on latest tentative agreement of a 2-year extension through July of 2023. Details are 1% benefits (medical) in year one and .5% in medical

WPIX:

06/24/21 – Union and Company met on June 24 for another round of negotiations. There are also dates in July (7/14 and 7/15).

6/28/21 – Union filed grievance over members that are not being given consideration of preferred shifts.

WNET:

7/7/21 – Counsel provided update on current discussion for a contract extension. Current agreement expired on 6/30/21.

WNJU:

04/27/21 – Union and Company spoke to review technical work that is being done by non-bargain personnel. Both sides met on June 28th. Matter ongoing.

WXTV:

6/3/21 – Union and Company held a Labor Management Meeting to discuss outstanding grievances. Union and Company have settled bereavement issue on 6/10. Company expects everyone to be back at the station by mid-July. Both sides looking to regroup for another meeting shortly.

WXTV Producers:

6/13/21 – Negotiations previously scheduled for June 29th have been postponed. Date is now set for July 16th. Committee call will be held on 7/8 with BR and Counsel to review proposals.

6/18/21 – Member has been moved to a different seniority list via transfer. Union reviewing the matter.

System One / UN:

06/02/21 – Both sides met for contract negotiations. There is a tentative 3-year agreement, 2% in each year, Retro payment would go back to January 1, 2021 and 2 additional PTO days and 1 more for each additional years of the agreement.  Waiting on MOU from company.

SONY:

06/28/21 – Members voted unanimously in ratification vote on new 3-year agreement.

AUDACY Radio:

06/22/21 – International and BM’s spoke to review rejection of ratification vote.

6/24/21 – BM and BR spoke to membership to update them on the changes.

07/07/21 – Ballots were counted for second ratification vote, numbers were reported. Awaiting results to see if vote ratified nationally.

Office:

06/22/21 – Union filed petition with the National Labor Relations Board stipulating an in-person election for the employees at MGM in Yonkers, NY. The vote will be held on July 14th.

07/01/21 – Union spoke with employees and those eligible to vote on 7/14. BM, BR, Counsel joined the call to field any questions and update them on the labor board rules.

 

June 2021

BUSINESS MANAGER’S REPORT

Covid-19:

6/11/21 – As of Friday, the state was at 69.2% of adults 18 and older with at least one shot of the Covid-19 vaccine. Governor Cuomo said that he would lift the remaining restrictions once the state was at 70%.

CBS CORP:

6/08/21 – CEO Bob Bakish sent a memo to employees that a voluntary “Yellow” phase of return to US Offices will begin on July 6th.

CBS Sports:

5/21/21 – International Office sent email to Management asking for members who have been vaccinated be relaxed with mask mandate working outside and on golf remotes. Matter ongoing.

CBS Newspath:

04/26/21 – Members were told there will be reductions in shifts to members within editing    and ingest. Union reviewing matter for grievance to work jurisdiction and supervisor functions. Both parties recently met to discuss on 6/10/21. Matter ongoing.

WCBS-TV:

6/10/21 – Company and Union will hold a meeting on 6/16 regarding reporters and photographers.

MDC:

6/9/21 – Company and Union had another meeting on June 1 and again on June 9th. Both parties are discussing a settlement for hyphenated member. Matter ongoing.

CBSN:

05/26/21 – Union drafted letter that was sent to Labor Relations. Matter ongoing.

FOX SPORTS:

6/09/21 – (Site Visit) BM, BR met with members and management at the Westminster Dog Show in Tarrytown, NY.

MSG:

6/03/21 – Company and Union spoke about upcoming requirement to mandating employees be vaccinated with at least one shot by July 6th. Matter remains ongoing.

WPIX:

02/03/21 – Member reached out to BM about preference of shift per the CBA. BM, BR, ABM and Manager had discussions and a follow up to change work assignments on equitable basis. Matter appears headed for a grievance meeting.

04/15/21 – Senior member on LTD inquiring about retirement with employer. Union reviewing documents. Had a follow up call on 4/22 and spoke with company on 5/6. Union council and BM spoke with member regarding the section of the agreement on June 10th.

05/20/21 – Union and Company met for first and second round of bargaining which included exchanging of proposals on May 20th and 24th. Next date to meet is set for June 24. There are also dates in July (7/14 and 7/15).

05/20/21 – Video Journalist at the station was hired full-time. Union and company have resolved the grievance that was filed back in late 2019.

WNJU:

04/27/21 – Both sides spoke to review technical work that is being done by non-bargaining unit personnel. Union and company scheduled a Labor Management meeting on May 25th. Both parties looking to reconvene on the subject shortly.

WXTV:

6/3/21 – Union and Company held a Labor Management Meeting to discuss outstanding grievances. Union and Company have settled bereavement issue on 6/10. Company expects everyone to be back at the station by mid-July. Both sides looking to regroup for another meeting soon. Other items are moving to arbitration if they cannot get worked out in the next session.

WXTV Producers:

6/13/21 – Negotiations previously scheduled for June 29th have been postponed. Company and Union discussing alternative dates.

System One / UN:

04/07/21 – Union and company have a tentative 2-month extension in place. Union held a shop meeting with the members on 4/26/21. Vote was passed and ratified on May 18th.

06/01/21 – Union and committee reviewed proposals before meeting with the Company on June 2nd for contract negotiations. There is a tentative 3-year agreement, 2% in each year, Retro payment would go back to January 1, 2021 and 2 additional PTO days and 1 more for each additional years of the agreement.  Waiting on MOU from company and votes will be going out to membership.

Sony:

05/27/21 – Both Union and Company met for bargaining on May 27th. Both have agreed to another 3-year extension with 3% in each year. Vote will go out to membership.

AUDACY Radio:

6/09/21 – Members’ ratification vote for a tentative 3-year agreement was rejected in NY and around the country.

6/11/21 – BM and BR spoke with members in NY regarding recent ratification vote being rejected. BM’s will discuss the matter with the International on Monday 6/14. Matter ongoing.

Office:

6/3/21 – Union spoke with Labor Relations from MGM. The company will not voluntarily recognize the Technicians at Yonkers Raceway. Union has filed a petition with the National Labor Relations Board as of 6/9/21. Matter ongoing.

May 2021

BUSINESS MANAGER’S REPORT

CBS CORP:

5/05/21 – IBEW Reps and Labor Relations met to discuss plans for new leadership at CBS regarding News, Stations, CBSN and digital platforms.

CBS Sports:

04/28/21 – Company and Union met with Safety Taskforce to review possibly easing restrictions to safety protocols for employees that have been fully vaccinated. Union reviewing matter along with company and corporate policy approval.

CBS News:

02/23/21 – Grievance meeting was held over two members not being paid for testing on day off and time spent on quarantine. April 29th, Management confirmed payment will sent to members in next payment cycle. Union will withdraw grievance without prejudice.

02/23/21 – Grievance meeting for members being quarantined post out of town assignment. Company responded on April 9th on remedy. Union has withdrawn grievance now that members will have until Thanksgiving to use the Comp time.

04/15/21 – George Cheeks, President and CEO of CBS Entertainment Group, sent a memo that CBS News, CBS TV Stations will combine into one divisional leadership structure. CBS News, 28 owned stations, CBSN and local websites of cbsnews.com under one roof.

CBS Newspath:

04/16/21 – Union met with Labor Relations and Management over reduction in some shifts within the department. Staff and 403g will be reassigned to a different department. BM, BR, Vice President and Company did a follow up.

04/26/21 – Members were told there will be reductions in shifts to members within editing and ingest. Union reviewing matter for grievance to work jurisdiction and supervisor functions.

COE:

04/27/21 – Union and Company reviewed the move for CTM to 1515 Broadway in the upcoming late Sumer/ early Fall months.

MDC:

3/11/21 – Union filed a grievance for decision by company to terminate member for violating company policy with regard to testing. Grievance meeting was held on April 7th and company responded to Union on April 9th. Company and Union had another meeting on May 7th, matter ongoing.

4/30/21 – Hyphenated member made an error on April 21st. Company met with Union representatives to review and a follow up meeting is set for May 13th.

WCBS:

02/26/21 – BM, BR, and Member spoke with Management and HR over issue in local. HR concluded its internal investigation on March 12th that member raised. On April 28th – BM, Member and Vice President from Compliance department held a meeting to review HR complaint filed against employee outside of the bargaining unit.

04/02/21 – Grievance filed over work jurisdiction for non-bargaining member doing jurisdictional work in the control room on February 17, 2021. Meeting was held on 4/16, Union sent back latest proposal on 5/5 to letter company drafted outlining the events that evening. Matter appears closed.

04/29/21 – Management, Labor Relations and Union Reps met to review safety guidelines for upcoming Summer schedule for Photogs/ Reporters. Matter ongoing.

CBSN:

04/26/21 – Union had a committee to finalize the proposals before sending to the company.

MSG:

04/28/21 – BM, Member and Management met to review the scheduling protocols.  Matter appears ongoing.

WPIX:

02/03/21 – Member reached out to BM about preference of shift per the CBA. BM, BR, ABM and Manager had a call on 2/10 and follow up on 4/27 to change work assignments on equitable basis. Matter ongoing.

04/15/21 – Senior member on LTD inquiring about retirement with employer. Union reviewing documents. Had a follow up call on 4/22 and spoke with company on 5/6. Matter remains open.

04/18/21 – Union and Company setting dates for Negotiations which will begin May 20th followed by a second date set for May 24th.

04/18/21 – Survey was sent out and is due back by May 3rd. Union has lready setup a committee meeting for May 11th.

05/03/21 – Member returned from Short Term Disability. Union and HR are still working with Insurance company to ensure member has been paid correctly for days missed while on leave.

WNJU:

04/26/21 – Member on 30-day suspension has returned to work. BR and Management did a follow up for a second time to review with member. There appears to be no issues.

04/27/21 – Both sides spoke to review technical work that is being done by non-bargain personnel. Union and company looking to schedule a Labor Management meeting to discuss matter further.

WXTV:

3/25/21 – BM, BR, Counsel reviewed outstanding grievances against company. Committee discussed grievances on March 25th and March 31st. Some grievances have been filed for arbitration, matter ongoing.

4/13/21 – Univision Communications and Grupo Televisa plan to merge their entertainment assets. New entity will be known as Televisa-Univision (largest Spanish language media company in the world) managed by Univision CEO Wade Davis

4/23/21 – Union filed grievances over bereavement leave and 4-hour shifts. Matter ongoing.

System One / UN:

04/07/21 – Union and company have a tentative 2-month extension in place. Union held a shop meeting with the members on 4/26/21. Ballots are due back on May 12th.

Sony:

04/27/21 – Union spoke with management and negotiations are set for May 27th.

Entercom Radio:

4/23/21 – Director and BMs met to discuss counter proposals issued by company. Union responded to that counter.

4/29/21 – Both sides met for another round of negotiations. A few open items remain, matter ongoing.

Office:

5/04/21 – IBEW International President Lonnie Stephenson issued a notification that the 40th IBEW Convention will be moved to Chicago, IL on May 9th, 2022. The Convention was previously scheduled for August of 2021.

5/04/21 – IBEW Political department setup a virtual meeting with President Joe Biden’s administration to discuss issues regarding the labor movement and proposed infrastructure bill.

April 2021

BUSINESS MANAGER’S REPORT

Covid-19:

03/06/21 – President Biden approved 1.9 trillion stimulus package for Covid relief. Some of the package includes stimulus checks, Federal assistance to unemployment insurance and resources for vaccine distribution.

CBS:

04/02/21 –Ballots for a 1-year extension. Members have overwhelmingly ratified a 1-year extension to the current agreement. The contract will take effect May 1, 2021 and run to April 30, 2022.

CBS Sports:

03/19/21 – NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament March Madness tipped off from (6) sites in all parts of Indiana. Technicians were assigned in what CBS/ NCAA designed as the Bracket Bubble. Final Four and Championship Game was also be played in Indianapolis.

04/11/21 – Masters Final Round took place from Augusta, GA. The 2020 Masters was played back in November due to Covid-19 but this year, the event took place in April.

CBS News:

03/11/21 – Member who has been home was expected to report to work on March 8th asked for additional time be extended. Unpaid FMLA would be granted to member once all sick time was exhausted. Member would also have to cover medical expenses for the month of March. Member was expected back to work on April 5th.

3/22/21 –Company rolled out their new Studio Live Trucks dubbed “Big Apple 1” for CTM Live Shots. Company intends on rolling out (2) more trucks operated by IBEW Technicians in Washington, DC and Los Angeles, CA in the coming weeks.

COE:

03/17/21 – BM, BR, Management and Labor Relations discussed technician who was laid off. Member has accepted severance payment and matter appears closed.

MDC:

3/11/21 – Union filed a grievance regarding Company’s decision to terminate member for violating company policy regarding testing. Grievance meeting was held on April 7th and company responded to Union on April 9th. Matter ongoing.

WCBS:

04/02/21 – Grievance filed over work jurisdiction for non-bargaining member doing jurisdictional work in the control room on February 17, 2021. Company has responded they are in receipt. Meeting has not been set.

CBSN:

04/08/21 – Union had a shop meeting via webinar session to review proposals before meeting with the company.

Fox Sports:

03/09 -03/11/21 – (Site Visit) BM and BR met with Members and Management at the Men’s Big East Tournament at MSG.

MSG:

03/22/21 – Union and Company held a meeting to review safety concerns regarding camera operators.

03/24/21 – Union and Company held a meeting to review safety concerns regarding fans and technicians.

03/25/21 – (Site Visit) BM met with Members and Management at Knicks game to review safety measures.

WPIX:

04/08/21 – Union and Company met to review policies on Covid, STD, outstanding grievances and setting dates for Negotiations which will begin May 11th   and continue May 12th.

WNET:

03/22/21 – Shop Steward notified Union of new hire replacing a recently retired technician.

WNJU:

3/31/21 – Company notified Union of new staff hire under the CBA.  Matter is ongoing.

WXTV:

3/25/21 – BM, BR, Counsel reviewed outstanding grievances against company. Committee discussed grievances on March 25th and March 31st. Some grievances have been filed for arbitration, matter ongoing.

WADO:

3/31/21 – Labor Relations notified BR that company is Holiday Weekend for Good Friday. Additional week vacation for 2021. BR spoke with company on 4/9 and meeting will be held with shop to review new time off policy with HR.

Prudential Center:

04/01/21 – Company has asked all team members wear either a single N95/KN95 mask or two non N95/KN95 masks.  Starting April 2nd company will provide KN95/N95 masks at each team member entrance, as well as the black surgical masks that company has already been handing out.

System One / UN:

03/19/21 – BR spoke with Shop Steward over short term disability claim that was pending. BR notified Human Resources worked it out and got member back to work.

04/07/21 – Union and company have a tentative 2-month extension in place. Union will be having a shop meeting to review the terms.

Entercom Radio:

3/23/21 – Director and BMs met to discuss counter proposals issued by company. Union responded to that counter and are looking to set dates with company to meet.

Office:

03/16-03/18/21 – BM, BR took place in Broadcasting Stations meeting with IBEW International and other IBEW locals with TV Station agreements around the Country. Conference ended with a Webinar featuring IBEW 1212 Treasurer Joe Gerardi of CBS News and WCBS-TV Maintenance Technician John Keller discussing workflows in a Covid-19 environment.

March 2021

BUSINESS MANAGER’S REPORT

Covid-19 Update:

03/06/21 –House and Senate have approved 1.9 trillion stimulus package for Covid relief. Returns to the House for a vote on Tuesday before President Biden’s approval.

CBS:

CBS CORP

03/03/21 –Union Office mailed out materials for the vote on a 1-year extension. Members will have until April 2nd to send ballots back for the ratification vote.

03/03/21 – BM, BR and International Reps will be hosting a webinar to review the one-year extension and answer any questions. That Webinar will be on March 10th from 10-11, 12-1 and 2-3pm.

CBS News

02/23/21 – Grievance meeting was held to discuss two members not being paid for testing on day off and time spent on quarantine. Company has agreed to retroactively pay the members from September through January 12th. Union will be withdrawing the grievance after members are made whole.

02/23/21 – Grievance meeting for members being quarantined post out of town assignment. Both sides have come to an agreement. Grievance will be withdrawn once members are made whole.

02/23/21 – Member who transferred to a different bureau is inquiring about status change to employment. Matter ongoing.

02/24/21 – Company provided new member list to the Union. Company also provided a member lookback from 2019 and 2020 used on CTM and FTN per the ICAP Settlement. Matter ongoing.

03/02/21 – Union drafted letter to company over hostile work environment towards technicians.  Matter is being monitored and remains ongoing.

3/03/21 – Per ICAP settlement, new Studio on wheels trucks is expected to be rolled out soon. Company said they are slightly delayed due to lighting but expect to have to go vans on the road soon.

MDC

02/08/2021 – The company has elected to terminate member for violating company policy regarding testing. Matter ongoing.

WCBS

02/19/21 – BM, BR and ABM spoke to member about non-bargaining personnel doing IBEW maintenance work. Member is also citing a possible HR case.

02/26/21 – BM, BR, and Member spoke with Management and HR over issue in local. HR is still investigating the matter. Matter ongoing.

03/03/21 – ABM spoke with Union over travel reimbursement to and from the CBS Broadcast Center. Matter ongoing.

CBSN

02/18/21 – Union formatted final proposals for committee of drafted CBA agreement. Looking for dates to meet with company to commence negotiations.

Fox Sports:

02/18/21 – Some members were affected by an issue with an accounting glitch. Matter is being handled by the company and union.

MSG:

02/16/21 – The Garden opened with a reduced capacity of 10% of fans for events and games. Each guest will be required to present confirmation of a negative test within 72 hours of the game. Guests must pass health survey and be temperature screened registering below 100.4 temperature. All guests will be required to wear a face mask.

02/23/21(Site visit) BM did tour of the facility to ensure the safety guidelines are being met by the employer.

02/25/21 – (Site visit) BM did a follow up tour of the facility to ensure the safety guidelines are being met by the employer.

03/03/21 – (Site visit) BM did a third tour of the facility to ensure the safety guidelines are being met by the employer.

WPIX:

02/03/21 – Member reached out to BM about preference of shift per the CBA. BM, BR, ABM and Manager had a call on 2/10. Matter remains open.

02/10/21 – Per Arbitration decision, member returned to work after missing the previous sixteen months. Member has been reinstated into his normal position with seniority restored.

03/05/21 – Company is implementing video review standards and designating who is responsible for content that airs. Union is reviewing the matter.

WNJU:

02/10/21 – Member and Reporter involved in altercation while covering news in the field. No one was injured or disciplined. BM and BR spoke to Management and praised the two for adhering to the proper safety protocols.

02/17/21 –Company held sessions with members to review the new 401k plan.

02/22/21 – Member on 30-day suspension has returned to work. BR and Management will do monthly follow up meeting with member beginning on March 29th.

WXTV:

02/16/21 – Member who was laid off due to economic reasons signed release agreement. Matter is now closed.

02/26/21 – Member reached out about company still not paying their contractual upgrade. Union has been notified, matter ongoing.

03/01/21 – Member reached out about contractual increase to members. Counsel is looking into the matter with Labor Relations.

WXTV Producers:

02/12/21 – BR held a committee meeting with members to review proposals. Looking to schedule dates with the company for negotiations.

Prudential Center:

02/12/21 – BR and Shop Steward had a Labor Management meeting to discuss postponements and cancellations due to Covid-19, Binghamton Devils at the Prudential Center and current workflows with NJ Devils and Seton Hall.

02/23/21 – NJ Governor Phil Murphy confirmed that stadiums and arenas can reopen the week of March 1st at a reduced capacity. Union has already been in contact with company about a reopening and discussing safety measures.

03/04/21 – (Site Visit) BR met with members and management to review safety procedures during Devils vs Rangers at the Rock.

Entercom Radio:

02/09/21 – Union sent committee a list of items that both sides have tentatively agreed to and items that remain open. No date is set yet to finalize remaining open items.

February 2021

BUSINESS MANAGER’S REPORT

CBS:

CBS CORP

02/02/21 – Second meeting was held with Negotiating committee and Business Managers/ International Reps over agreement that is set to expire in April 2021. Further information is expected for a ratification vote to extend the contract.

CBS Sports

02/07/21 – Super Bowl 55 in Tampa, FL. IBEW 1212 technicians contributed to another production of the Super Bowl produced by CBS. CBS now completed its 21st Super Bowl, the most by any other Network.

CBS News

11/19/20 – Grievance filed over two members not being paid for testing on day off and time spent on quarantine. Matter ongoing.

12/07/20 – BM wrote to CBS Labor Relations about members being quarantined post out of town assignment. Union filed grievance on January 6th.

12/15/20 – BM, BR and Member held a Labor Management meeting to discuss return to work. Follow up meeting on 02/02/21 – BM, BR and Member held a Labor Relations and Management. March 8th is the expected return date, matter ongoing.

01/20/21 – Members traveled to Washington, DC for expanded coverage of the Presidential inauguration of Joe Biden. President-elect Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States.

02/03/21 – Per ICAP settlement, new Studio on wheels vans is expected to be rolled out. Company is also expected to send new member list to the Union as well as a member list for 2019 and 2020.

CBS Radio

11/19/20 – Member has transitioned to LTD but there are still outstanding items that HR is still reviewing. BR reached out to Labor Relations on Feb 4. Matter ongoing.

MDC

12/31/20 – Union spoke with member about testing being mandatory. Company has put member on emergency unpaid leave since December 11th. Company has extended a deadline to Monday, February 8th. Matter ongoing.

WCBS

01/30/21 – Members inquired about the NYPSL (New York Paid Sick Leave) that was amended in 2020 and took effect Jan 1, 2021. Local is discussing with the International.

CBSN

01/08/21 – Union emailed committee drafted proposals. Meeting with Union and committee was held on February 5th to review finalized proposals before meeting with the company.

Fox Sports:

01/31/21 – St. Johns vs UCONN game was cancelled due to Covid-19.

WPIX:

01/14/21 – Per Arbitration decision Counsel spoke with Labor Relations from Nexstar on return date for member. That date has been set for February 10th.

02/03/21 – Member reached out to BM about preference of shift per the CBA. Matter ongoing.

WNJU:

01/08/21 –BM, BR, and Counsel had a meeting with member and company over discipline. Company issued a suspension without pay and final warning letter. Member has signed the agreement on January 29th and is due back at the facility on Feb 22.

02/05/21 – Ratification voting packets were mailed to membership on Jan 15. Agreement was ratified by the membership.

WXTV:

01/08/21 – Company informed Union that they intend to layoff member due to economic reasons. Union has spoken with member and company. Matter remains ongoing.

WADO:

02/05/21 – Discrepancy with Vacation carryover for member. BR spoke to HR and Labor Relations and matter has been resolved.

Prudential Center:

02/03/21 – Company announced that the Binghamton Devils will be playing all their home games at the Rock this year beginning in February and ending in March.

System One / UN:

01/27/21 – Extension was ratified by the membership.

Entercom Radio:

01/12/21 – Meeting was scheduled with members to update them on contract negotiations. No date has been set to finalize remaining open items.

January 2021

BUSINESS MANAGER’S REPORT

CBS:

CBS CORP

01/08/21 – Meeting set with Negotiating committee and Business Managers/ International Reps to discuss the expiration of CBA in April 2021. Meeting is set for January 15th.

CBS News

12/30/20 – Per ICAP decision dated November 17, 2020. Both parties have been meeting each Wednesday. Company has already informed Union that new trucks outfitted to go live with guests for Network News shows are already close to being implemented.

01/08/21 – BM notified International Reps about VJ being upgraded to technician in LA. Matter ongoing.

MDC

12/31/20 – Union spoke with member about testing being mandatory. Company has put member on emergency unpaid leave. Matter ongoing.

WCBS

12/28/20 – Union had a meeting with management to discuss the work assignments of two members Union did follow up with members on December 30th and January 6th. Union is looking to reduce letter to a grievance. Matter ongoing.

CBSN

01/08/21 – Union emailed committee a template drafted CBA agreement. Meeting with Union and committee is expected to be scheduled next week to review any changes.

HBO:

12/17/20 – Wage increases and retro payment back to October of 2019 went into effect for membership. There was a discrepancy in the pay which was a result of HBO changing their payroll system at the end of 2019 to Workday. Matter resolved.

MSG:

12/22/20 – Knicks 72-game season kicked off.

01/03/20 – NHL will begin season by January 13th.  Rangers open season on January 14th vs Islanders.

WPIX:

01/02/21 – Sale was made final at the end of the year and WPIX is now owned by Mission Broadcasting which is a sub-division of Nexstar.

01/02/21 – Arbitrator decided in favor of terminated member. Member can return to work. Matter ongoing.

WNJU:

12/02/20 –Tentative 4-year deal subject to ratification vote by the members includes an increase to per diem minimum in January 2021, wage increases at 2.5% in 2021, 2022 and 2023 and a ratification bonus for both staff and freelance. There are upgrades to Supervisors, Maintenance/ & ENG wages as well.

01/08/21 –BM, BR, and Counsel had a meeting with member and company over discipline. Company would like to suspend member for 30-days. Union reviewing document. Matter ongoing.

WXTV:

01/03/21 – Union withdrew without prejudice arbitration request for Reporter going live during MTA news conference.

01/08/21 – Company informed Union that they intend to layoff member due to economic reasons. Matter ongoing.

System One / UN:

01/08/21 – Ratification vote on a new 3-month extension will be held on January 27th. New extension would run to end of March.

Entercom Radio:

01/07/21 – Meeting was scheduled with members on 01/12/21 for update on contract negotiations.