Trustees, acting independently of the Executive Board, are also elected. Their duty is to safeguard the members' dues by regularly checking the local's finances. Full reports are made by the trustees at membership meetings. Keep the membership fully informed of the union's program and activities. Collective Bargaining Before negotiating with an employer, the local union develops a collective bargaining program which is discussed and ratified by the membership.
Every member has a right to raise issues for consideration in negotiations.
Local negotiating committees are elected by the members to bargain with the boss . No agreement with an employer can take effect without ratification by the membership. Strikes can only be called after a majority of the members vote to take such action. In each case, the decision is up to the local UE membership. Unlike most other unions, the National Union cannot force a local to accept or reject a contract, go on strike, end a strike, or withhold strike benefits to force a settlement.