Fortunately in the last couple of months the DOT hasn't been completely drained in a day. There is no reason for them to "offer" us anything, that's why we have people who negotiate an agreement on our behalf. I understand the 150% ship has probably sailed and there is a specific amount of negotiating capital each of us is willing to use to obtain it. In my view it is a concession that we won't get back unless the bottom line is being effected.
I cannot say I haven't picked up a trip at straight pay at some time in the past. I have adjusted my schedule to better suit my quality of life and sometimes that means working a higher credit trip on the same day(s), sometimes it's lower. It annoys me that all of the DOT trips get picked up at straight pay, especially when the days are red and I have an extra day or two (maybe due to TX) I'm willing to JA. That said it is not my place to tell a new hire trying to support his/her family what he can or can't do.