Carpenters, Contractors Disagree On Fourth Of July Observance
The Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters has advised contractors that the July 4th holiday will be celebrated on Friday, July 3 this year. The Union maintains that holidays falling on Saturdays are always celebrated the prior Friday, and that Carpenters working Friday should be paid at the holiday rate.
The issue has arisen a number of times, with the last being Christmas in 2004. The Mid-America Regional Bargaining Association (MARBA) disagrees with the Union's position and points out that none of the previous grievances filed by the Union on this matter have been decided by arbitration. Contractors should know, however, that the possibility of the Union filing for arbitration exists for anyone using Carpenters on July 3.
The majority of Union contracts in the area include language detailing when a holiday is to be recognized. The Bricklayers contract is similar to the Carpenters contract from a language standpoint, but the Bricklayers District Council has advised that it will observe the holiday on Saturday.
The Technical Engineers contract stipulates holiday pay is necessary for the days "on which they are legally celebrated." Contracts with Auto Mechanics and Teamsters require holiday pay when certain criteria are met. These specific provisions should be reviewed by anyone using those trades this week.
To receive clarification on any contract, contact Director of Labor Denise Herdrich at 847-318-8585.