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Washington, D.C.—Yesterday, Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) at one of the nation’s busiest airports took advantage of an opportunity to discuss a range of workplace issues—including the urgent need for collective bargaining rights—with a key member of the House of Representatives.

The meeting, at the invitation of the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) and its Chapter 311, came during a visit by Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.) to LaGuardia International Airport (LGA). Clarke is a member of the House Homeland Security Committee and two of its subcommittees. NTEU Chapter 311 represents TSOs at LGA.

At the meeting, several TSOs discussed the need for a fair pay system, better working conditions and unfair treatment by management.

“Considering the variety of serious problems impacting this workforce, the high-level attention to the views of TSA employees is welcome and refreshing,” said NTEU President Colleen M. Kelley. “It is very important that members of Congress see first-hand both the working conditions TSOs face, and the dedication and commitment with which they do their jobs. These are hard-working men and women doing an important job, and they are not being treated fairly.”

President Kelley cited a recent report by the inspector general of TSA’s parent agency, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reporting that current internal dispute resolution mechanisms put in place by TSA to address workplace issues are completely ineffective.

“There is clear evidence of the need for collective bargaining rights for TSA employees, including an effective and negotiated grievance procedure,” said Kelley.

NTEU is strongly supporting for H.R. 3212, which would provide TSOs with collective bargaining rights; for now, such rights are granted at the sole discretion of the head of TSA. Securing the same collective bargaining rights that are widespread throughout DHS is part of NTEU’s comprehensive five-part program for TSOs nationwide.

Other elements include elimination of the unfair pay-for-performance system and moving TSOs onto the General Schedule pay system; fighting for adequate staffing and fair scheduling; improving the training and recertification programs; and granting TSOs whistleblower rights by law.

“I am pleased to have had the opportunity to meet face to face with TSOs to discuss the challenges they endure,” Rep. Clarke said in a statement. “It is unacceptable that we are failing to provide the most basic labor protections to our frontline workers who perform jobs that are crucial and of vital importance to keep us all safe. Our TSOs should be afforded the collective bargaining rights and whistleblower protections they deserve.”

NTEU is the largest independent federal union, representing 150,000 employees in 31 agencies and departments. In addition to LGA, NTEU represents TSOs at New York’s John F. Kennedy International and Atlanta’s Hartsfield International Airports.