This time appears to be different, I see more advance communication than I recall last time.

I think it's a kinder and gentler world, believe it or not. Also the managers know that if they're requesting federal financial aid (they are, $25B + $25B in credit lines), how they treat their employers will certainly influence the associated politics since congress will have to authorize that sort of money.

But it's a dynamic situation, what they plan today might change in a few weeks (for worse, or maybe better).