Sure they can. Status quo is probably the most sure way to ensure they don't get sued for signing off on changes.

Besides the issue has never been an airline scoping its own flying. The issue has always been using scope to control another pilot group. In the case of airlines like ASA, it is less of an issue because now ASA operates for two carriers and potentially a third (if the rumors are correct).

It would be hard to say scope at all constrained Republic with their almost 900% growth this decade. As long as "we" continue to write contracts that define the flying we don't do, management will continue to easily step around our scope blockades.

... it would be politically advantageous, create unity and position us on the high ground for bargaining IF we would state on the record "jobs are not for sale." The silence on the subject communicates all anyone needs to know.

The highest threat is not a lawsuit from an aggrieved ALPA member at a F4D carrier. The highest threat is internal (unfortunately).