Possible violation of federal law: DOJ to review union’s failed Delta attempt

ATLANTA, GA – The National Mediation Board today dismissed the International Association of Machinists application for an election among Delta flight attendants, following the IAM’s notice of withdrawal. In a letter accompanying the dismissal, the NMB states that it “has reason to believe that some unknown person or persons knowingly submitted authorization cards with fraudulent signatures in a possible violation of federal law.” It also states that it “has decided to refer the matter to the appropriate office of the United States Department of Justice for further review.”

“There is nothing more important than our people and our culture,” said Richard Anderson, chief executive officer. “We respect the integrity of the NMB’s election process and fully support the DOJ investigation so our people can know the full truth.”

“We are very encouraged that this matter has been referred to the DOJ,” said Joanne Smith, Delta’s executive vice president and chief human resources officer. “At the time of the IAM filing in January, many flight attendants were raising questions regarding the validity of the authorization cards the IAM submitted to the NMB.”

Unions seeking to represent airline employees are required to submit valid authorization cards to the NMB from at least 50 percent of all eligible voters in order for an election to be held.

Effective today, under the NMB’s rules, no union can file an application to represent Delta flight attendants for one year.