August 24, 2006

Dear BNG Membership,

It has come to the attention of the BNG that Guild members are working overtime and being discouraged from seeking payment for their OT work.

Our contract language on overtime reads as follows: (CBA page 16)

2. Overtime

Overtime work in excess of 37.5 hours in one week and shall be paid at a rate of time and one-half. All claims for overtime must be made within one (1) week following completion of out-of-town assignment. If an employee terminates his/her employment for any reason, all overtime due him/her shall be paid by payroll check.

3. Exclusions from Overtime

The following positions are excluded from the application of the provisions of this agreement relative to hours of work and overtime payment: Outside Advertising Salespersons, Cartoonists, Editorial Writers.

4. Assignment of Overtime

Except in an emergency, overtime must be approved in advance by an exempt supervisor/manager. In an emergency, overtime may also be approved by a bargaining unit supervisor. Bargaining unit employees required to work in advance of or after their regularly scheduled times shall be paid at the rate of time and one-half for such work in addition to their regular day’s pay. The Employer will make every effort within the needs of the newspaper to assign overtime in a fair and equitable manner taking into consideration seniority in classification. No employee will be required to work more than ten (10) consecutive days.

Overtime payments will be made in the weekly pay period immediately following submission for the overtime worked.

You must request the OT you work and earn.

Please inform the BNG regarding OT contract violations immediately. Any CBA OT violations become grievable matters.

Sincerely,
Daniel B. Totten
President

September 8, 2006