Oregon airport TSA security officers ratify new contract, say it improves working conditions

By Eric Tegethoff, Oregon News Service

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Airport security officers in Oregon are celebrating what they say will be better working conditions, after ratifying a new collective bargaining contract.

The American Federation of Government Employees Council 100, representing transportation security officers, has secured a new contract - that includes what it describes as improved language on progressive discipline, new uniform rights, and better leave conditions.

Samantha Dollens is the regional AFGE vice president for Oregon, representing TSA officers at six airports.

"A lot of the wins make the officers more comfortable," said Dollens, "put more money into their pockets so they're a little less stressed out, and that will reflect when they're working with the traveling public. More comfortable, less stressed out will equal out to better interactions with passengers."

Dollens represents workers at airports across Oregon - including in Eugene, Medford and Portland. The new contract comes ahead of the busy summer travel season.

Dollens said the seven year contract also helps in TSA officers' fight for Title Five rights like other government employees.

"It's getting us closer to a mirror of that," said Dollens, "and getting our status equalized among all the other agencies."

Title Five classification is the most common among government employees. It provides protections for collective bargaining, whistleblowing and guaranteed pay increases.