Management cannot legally change them without negotiating with the union. Your employer did not give workers the rights and benefits in the union contract. They were won over years of tough negotiations because of membership unity. You Vote on the Contract You vote to accept or reject whatever has been negotiated. The proposed contract does not go into effect until a majority of the members vote to accept it.
Contracts can cover workers on a national, regional, or local union level.
Experience shows agreements covering a period of three years best serve the interests of the members. Some contracts, however, run for longer or shorter terms. Know Your Contract Read your contract. Ask your steward to explain parts that are unclear. If you know your contract, you can take full advantage of the benefits contained in it.