Dec 5, 2003 By Paul Sunyak 2 min read

Fifty-six correctional officers at the Fayette County Prison are joining the United Mine Workers of America after rejecting continued representation by their prior union, the Independent Correctional Officers of Pennsylvania. A press release from the UMWA said the employees voted 43-1 to join the mine workers, citing the driving force as the need for better wages and health care benefits, and a desire for an improved grievance procedure.

The correctional officers’ contract with the ICOP expires Dec. 31 and negotiations with the UMWA are expected to begin as soon as the Pennsylvania Labor Relations board certifies the vote, according to the press release.

Fayette County Commission Chairman Vincent A. Vicites said the UMWA already represents county workers in the Adult and Juvenile Probation offices, the Domestic Relations Office and the county law library. Approximately 50 county employees are currently affiliated with the UMWA.

“I have always had a good relationship with the UMW,” said Vicites. “That is the decision of the corrections officers. If that’s who they choose, I will acknowledge that and work with them.”

In the press release, UMWA District 2 President Ed Yankovich said, “We are honored by the overwhelming show of support and vote of confidence that the Fayette County correctional officers have placed in the UMWA.”

The press release also quoted Fayette correctional officer Bob Yatsko of New Salem as noting that the workers “wanted to join the top union in America.” Said Yatsko, “In our opinion, no union has more power or a better track record of representing its members than the UMWA.”

UMWA International President Cecil Roberts said, “We are proud so many correctional officers throughout Pennsylvania are joining our ranks.”