Synopsis By: Marx - Proceeding Author: Gerald G. Somers, Harrison Trice, Jerry R. Tucker

Discharge for alcoholism or alcohol-related misconduct poses one of the “greater dilemmas” for arbitrators. The authors discuss the growth of occupational programs, both employer-initiated and through collective bargaining. In many instances, discipline and discharge for alcoholism are disguised as cases involving absenteeism and/or poor performance. The arbitrator must deal with conflicting arguments of alcoholism as a disease or illness and the history of warnings and progressive disciplinary steps. Also discussed is discharge for failure to follow previously agreed-to participation in a rehabilitation program in lieu of discipline. The chapter includes comment by UAW International Representative Jerry Tucker and Professor Harrison Trice, as well as floor discussion by members.