AS 42.40.880: Exemption.

Notwithstanding the provisions of AS 42.40.870, a collective bargaining settlement reached, or agreement entered into, under AS 42.40.860 that incorporates union security provisions, including a union shop or agency shop provision or agreement, shall safeguard the rights of nonassociation of employees having bona fide religious convictions based on tenets or teachings of a church or religious body of which an employee is a member. Upon submission of proper proof of religious conviction to the railroad labor relations agency, the agency shall declare the employee exempt from becoming a member of an organization. The employee shall pay an amount of money equivalent to regular organization dues, initiation fees, and assessments to the organization. Nonpayment of this money subjects the employee to the same penalty as if it were nonpayment of dues. The receiving organization shall contribute an equivalent amount of money to a charity of its choice not affiliated with a religious, labor, or employee organization. The organization shall submit to the railroad labor relations agency proof of contribution.