Editing Preface CIM v5 2021

=== Preface ===
The interpretations contained in the CIM should be self-explanatory. As specified in Article 15, Section .3E of the National Agreement, the CIM is not intended to
“add to, modify, or replace, in any respect” the language in the National Agreement. Additionally, the CIM is not intended to “modify in any way the
rights, responsibilities, or benefits or the parties under the Agreement.” The positions of the parties contained in the CIM are binding on their
representatives in the resolution of disputes at the Local and Area/Regional levels and in the processing of grievances at Steps 1, 2 and 3. The positions of
the parties contained in the CIM are binding on the arbitrator in any Regional level arbitration case, regular or expedited, in which the CIM is introduced. If
introduced in Regional level arbitration, the CIM will speak for itself and the parties’ advocates will not seek testimony on the content of the document from
the National parties.
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The parties at the National level have committed to update the CIM periodically to reflect any modifications to their positions which may result from national
arbitration awards, pre-arbitration settlements, Step 4 decisions, or other agreed upon sources. The parties at the Local and Area/Regional levels should assure
that they are working with the most recent version of the CIM at all times and that they apply any revisions or modifications prospectively from the date of revision.