Peter. . . . .
The bill(s) in question are still in committee. The final bills could be far different then from what we have seen so far (three version were posted last week on this list). As of now there is no sure way to say what the final wording of the two bills until they come back to the floor. Even then the odds of them changing are still great. After the House and Senate each pass their versions (and they will pass something under “Port-Security”) the difference, if any, between the two bills will be negotiated until a final version is sent back for a vote.
What ever the outcome it will have a dramatic effect on our Union, workplace and a number of registered longshoreman/clerks/foreman. Those that are the most vulnerable appear to be those with 10 years or less registered, all “B” men, all casuals. You can be fairly certain that all that have convictions that are felonies or gross misdemeanors will fall under close scrutiny and have the greatest possibility of banishment from the waterfront.
What worries me also is those of us with “associations” to groups or causes that could be considered as radical or “Un-American” activities and then easily painted as security risks. Since the bill in my opinion is more of a political witch-hunt then any attempt at making our Ports safe my guess is that those of members that are more vocal and are strong in Union principles will be targeted also.
Tim 35181
