FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) - Airline passenger service and ramp workers started picketing in front of Fresno Yosemite International Airport on Monday. The Communications Workers of America (CWA) says the picketing passenger service and ramp workers demand higher wages, health care for part-time employees, and safer working conditions. The workers are from Piedmont Airlines, a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Airlines; they are picketing to put pressure on the company to negotiate a fair collective bargaining agreement. Officials say these workers assist with pre-flight check-in, loading and unloading baggage, guiding planes on the tarmac, deicing planes, supplying potable water, removing lavatory waste and ensuring aircraft are inspected and safe before departure. According to the CWA, many workers do not have health care coverage despite working for one of the "most profitable airlines in the country," enduring hazardous conditions, and dealing with unruly passengers. Many Piedmont workers are left to rely on government assistance. The union states Monday's picket comes after over a year of negotiations with Piedmont Airlines. The company has reportedly not responded to the workers' "critical proposals." In a statement, Piedmont Airlines says it values the work that their more than 8,000 team members do to take care of our customers and each other every day. We are currently in active discussions with the CWA to make sure our employees feel fully supported and cared for, both by the union and by our organization. These conversations cover important topics, including fair wages, and we are committed to reaching an agreement that reflects the needs and well-being of our team. We’re optimistic that together, we’ll achieve an outcome everyone can feel proud of. Piedmont Airlines In a statement, Fresno Yosemite International Airport wrote that the authorized and planned information picketing is part of a nationwide effort - and not about specific conditions or issues at Fresno's airport. This informational picketing is specifically related to contract negotiations between to the airline and its labor force. Parameters are in place to ensure public safety, security compliance and an efficient airport operation at FAT during today’s informational picket. Fresno Yosemite International Airport Airport officials add that the activity has no impact on scheduled air service or airport operations at Fresno Yosemite International.