NFFE Local 1 : Articles

Senate Passes Measure Ending Air Traffic Controller Furloughs; House Expected to Follow Suit

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

With hundreds of thousands of air passengers facing delays at airports throughout the country this week, it appears Congress is ready to put an end to the furloughs causing this mess. Thursday, the Senate passed a measure ending furloughs for air traffic controllers and opening the roughly 150 air traffic control towers in rural areas that were temporarily shuttered due to mandatory sequestration cuts. The bill grants the FAA additional flexibility to shift funds between agency accounts,...

Lots of Argument but Few Solutions from Capitol Hill on Ending Furloughs

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

While it appears progress is being made on ending furloughs for air traffic controllers, there's been no such luck for the more than a million other federal workers facing furloughs this year. The only two "serious" plans to be introduced in Congress thus far, one by each party, were both declared dead on arrival by their political opponents. In short, our elected officials have arrived at a stalemate, and don't seem terribly concerned with getting us out of it. The only way to stop the...

REMINDER: Deadline for 2013 IAM Newsletter and Website Contest is May 10th

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

The 2013 IAM Newsletter and Website Competition is underway, and we're asking all NFFE locals to enter their newsletter, websites, and Facebook pages today! NFFE locals and the national office smashed records with a total of 19 awards last time, and we're looking for an even more impressive performance this year. Honoring excellence in both print and digital labor journalism, the contest awards IAM districts and locals for their contributions to building the union movement. The contest is...

Report: Air Force Authorized RIFs at 60 Installations, Upwards of 1,000 Jobs at Risk

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

With over 15,000 positions already cut from the branch's civilian ranks this year, the Air Force Wednesday announced they will be eliminating another 1,000 jobs before the end of the year. In total, 60 Air Force installations will face reductions in force. Unlike the forthcoming furloughs at Air Force and other agencies, this year's job cuts were mandated by steep cuts to the branch's budget in 2012. According to the Federal Times, the Department plans to fill vacancies with those whose...

Federal Employees on Edge with Furloughs Officially Underway

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

First it was years, then it was months, then weeks; but now, the furloughs have finally arrived and workers are starting to feel the long-anticipated financial pinch. This week thousands of federal employees at the Department of Labor began the first of up to eight days of unpaid furlough days between now and the end of the fiscal year. According to a recent piece in Government Executive, over 4700 DOL employees are scheduled to take between two and eight unpaid furlough days. Next week,...

DoD to Ask Congress for New Budget Authorities to Reduce Furloughs

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

According to a recent report in Government Executive, the Department of Defense (DoD) plans to request substantial 'budget transfer authority' to reduce the impacts of sequestration. This authority, if granted, could give DoD the flexibility it needs to further reduce or eliminate employee furloughs. The transfer authority works by allowing Defense to move money across its various accounts to offset the across-the-board sequestration cuts set in motion earlier this year. By law, sequestration...

Young Federal Employees: Do You Have What it Takes to be a Leader? Start a YFL Chapter at Your Local!

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

Are you interested in becoming a leader? Do you want to become a part of something bigger than yourself? We're proud to offer you the opportunity to assume a leadership role by starting a YFL Local chapter! We want YOU to stand up and lead the new wave of young leaders entering the workforce. You don't need any previous leadership or union experience - all we ask is that you believe federal workers can accomplish more together than alone. Take a quick look at this guidance on how to start a...

Defense Official: 12,000 Job Cuts Coming to DoD Next Year

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

The Department of Defense is prepared to cut nearly 12,000 jobs next year according to Defense Comptroller Robert Hale. The cuts will come as the first of 40,000-50,000 job cuts scheduled to take effect over the next five years. According to a recent report from the Federal Times, the Department plans to offer early retirement to some and conduct reductions in force (RIF) at other locations. Few specifics have been given to date, but some in Washington have suggested that another round of...

SFLERP 40th Anniversary Symposium on Labor, Management & Employee Relations is Just Around the Corner!

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

The Society of Federal Labor & Employee Relations Professionals is sponsoring its 40th Anniversary Symposium on Labor, Management and Employee Relations on April 18-19, 2013, at the Holiday Inn Crystal City Hotel in Arlington, VA. The Symposium is the only annual conference that brings together Federal-sector labor, management and neutrals to explore the latest developments in labor-management and employee relations. Take a look at the 2013 Draft Symposium Program and don't miss this...

NFFE Local 2109 Members Take to the Streets to Demonstrate Against Furloughs

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

Yesterday, more than 100 Watervliet Arsenal employees hit the streets to demonstrate against 14 days of mandatory sequestration furloughs. The message was clear: federal workers have given enough already. Organized by NFFE Local 2109, the informational picket targeted furloughs and other anti-federal worker policies initiated by Washington over the past several years. Joining them was Congressman Paul Tonko (D-NY) who stood in solidarity with arsenal employees facing furloughs. The picket...

Report: Obama Budget Proposal to Include $35 Billion in Federal Retirement Cuts

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

President Obama is planning to include upwards of $35 billion in cuts to federal retirement in his forthcoming budget proposal, according to the Washington Post. The plan was revealed in a conference with White House reporters where Administration staff briefed newsmakers on the details of his FY14 budget proposal, which is expected to be released April 10th. The proposed cuts come at a difficult time for millions of federal workers. Most are facing furloughs, new employees are already paying...

RIFs May be Coming to DoD Next Year if Sequestration Cuts Continue

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

With billions more in sequestration cuts to meet next year, senior Department of Defense (DoD) officials are suggesting reductions in force may be necessary to meet the strict budget targets. In a recent webinar organized by the Association of Government Accountants, DoD Comptroller Robert Hale said "reductions-in-force and involuntary separations" may be necessary to avoid a repeat of the widespread furloughs scheduled to take effect next month. In all, an estimated 700,000 Defense workers...

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 CDT

This year's first edition of the National Federation of Federal Employees' (NFFE) quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available! Featuring a detailed list of the latest anti-federal worker proposals to come out of Congress (furloughs anyone?), this edition focuses on what ordinary Americans can do to put a stop to it. Here's what's inside:

Defense Furlough Days Reduced from 22 to 14

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

In a surprise announcement this week, the Department of Defense (DoD) announced that it would reduce the number of mandatory employee furlough days from 22 to 14. The announcement came after DoD reviewed new funding changes included in the recently-passed continuing resolution. Due to a revised allocation of funds between accounts, the Department was able to reduce the number of furloughs required for hundreds of thousands of DoD personnel. With 14 furlough days still on the calendar,...

Legislative Conference is Right Around the Corner! Deadline for Room Discounts is April 8th

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

Lobbying elected officials is critical in our efforts to improve the lives of federal workers across the country. Every day NFFE lobbies Congress and the Administration to ensure that our elected leaders act in the best interest of federal workers and their families. But we are not alone. Many other powerful voices are lobbying politicians on Capitol Hill every day - some that are hostile to the federal workforce. If we are to overcome the negative attitude toward federal workers on Capitol...

Obama Signs Funding Bill Including 2013 Pay Freeze into Law

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

Following the approval of both the House and Senate last week, President Obama signed into law a continuing resolution to fund the government through the remainder of 2013. The measure prevents a government shutdown, but also includes a provision freezing federal pay through the remainder of the year. The new law brings the pay freeze into its third consecutive year, meaning federal workers have received no cost of living adjustment since 2010. Though it comes as no surprise the many that...

Defense Furlough Notices Delayed Two Weeks; Fewer Furlough Days a Possibility

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

Thursday, the Department of Defense (DoD) announced that it would be delaying the issuance of furlough notices to hundreds of thousands of civilian employees in response to questions over funding shifts in the latest continuing resolution. Passed by the Senate and confirmed by the House late this week, the continuing resolution shifts funds among certain department accounts that could possibly alleviate some of the 22 planned furlough days. There is no indication yet that this is the case,...

House Passes Fiscal Year 2014 Budget Including Painful Cuts to Federal Pay, Benefits, and Jobs

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

Less than 24 hours after Congress cleared a continuing resolution to fund the government through the remainder of 2013, the House of Representatives succeeded in passing a budget resolution for fiscal year 2014. The budget resolution, introduced by Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) last week, made an uncharacteristically short trip through the House despite its inclusion of several extreme measures. The resolution calls for $132 billion in savings from increasing the amount federal...

Senate Passes Controversial Funding Measure Extending Federal Pay Freeze Through 2013

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

Wednesday evening, the Senate passed its version of the continuing resolution, a funding measure poised to keep the government open through the close of the fiscal year in September. Though a government shutdown appears to have been averted, the bill's passage virtually guarantees that federal pay will remain frozen through 2013. It also maintains sequestration furloughs with a few small exceptions for food safety inspectors. If the House passes the bill and the President signs it, the...

Get Expert Union Advice from Your National Business Representative!

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

As Unionists we have all run into situations where we simply don't have the requisite knowledge or experience to effectively conduct our representational duties and union functions. In times like these NFFE representatives can turn to their personal labor-relations and internal union expert: their National Business Representative. Often referred to as "BRs," NFFE's Business Representatives assist Locals with everything from representational issues and communications, to legislative contacts,...

FEEA Scholarship Deadline Rapidly Approaching; Submit Your Application No Later than March 29th

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

If you or a family member are planning to apply for FEEA's 2013-14 scholarships, the due date is just two weeks away -- all applications must be postmarked no later than Friday, March 29, 2013. Visit the scholarship page to learn more or download the application, check out our Partner Programs information to find out if you can submit one application to be entered in multiple contests, or read our Scholarship FAQ to get your questions answered. Learn more about our other scholarship programs...

NFFE Welcomes New Assistant General Counsel Philip Snodgrass

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE is committed to ensuring that all of our members get the best representation possible. But as our union continues to grow, so too do the representational challenges we face. Keeping up with the demands of a rapidly-growing membership base, NFFE is proud to announce the hiring of a new Assistant General Counsel, Philip Snodgrass. Snodgrass previously clerked at NFFE during his days at the Northeastern University School of Law and has long-since advocated for federal workers' rights....

One Year Pay Freeze Extension Almost a Reality as House, Senate Abandon Federal Employees

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

This week, the Senate a proposed a stopgap funding measure known as a "continuing resolution" to fund the government through the remainder of the fiscal year. Following in the footsteps of the House version of the bill, the Senate measure also includes a one-year extension of the much-maligned federal pay freeze. The action is surprising given past efforts by Senate leaders to strip incoming House legislation of anti-federal worker policies. This time, however was different, as no real...

Engage Your Members by Starting a Local Facebook Page!

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

The communications landscape has changed rapidly over the past decade. Without a doubt, one of the most influential shifts has been the emergence of social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Among the more than 1 billion regular social media users across the world are NFFE members, BUEs, and a wide community of union brothers and sisters. As unionists, it is more important now than ever that we embrace these technologies and build them into the very fabric of our Union. That...

House Budget Chairman Releases FY 2014 Budget Targeting Federal Pay, Retirement, and Jobs

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

As hundreds of thousands of federal employees stare down anywhere from 4 to 22 furlough days (and the resulting loss in pay) some in Congress think federal workers need to give even more. Tuesday, House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) released his annual budget proposal to the public, unveiling trillions in spending cuts over the next decade. Among those cuts were several proposals targeting federal jobs, pay and benefits. Overall, Ryan argues these changes to federal workforce...

Setting the Record Straight on Union Official Time: An Open Letter to Senator Lamar Alexander

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CDT

I would like to start by thanking you for pointing out the mismanagement of the Office of Job Corps and the deficient FY 2013 budget request for the program that does not accurately reflect its true cost. We agree that Job Corps centers should not be closed to score political points. I've attached our detailed comments on this issue for your information and offer my support in working together on the issues you raise. I hope today's hearing on the Job Corps budget shortfall will help...

House Passes Funding Measure Extending Federal Pay Freeze through 2013, Preserving Sequester

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CST

Wednesday, the House of Representatives passed a funding measure including a provision to extend the much-maligned federal pay freeze and allowing automatic sequestration cuts to take effect. The bill, H.R. 933, is what Washington refers to as a "continuing resolution," (CR) which is a stop-gap funding measure used when Congress and the President cannot agree on a formal budget. The government has been operating exclusively on a string CR's over the past several years. The timing of this...

Congresswoman Introduces Legislation to Slash 200,000 Federal Jobs over Three Years

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CST

Congresswoman Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced a bill to cut the federal workforce by ten percent over three years, for a total reduction of 200,000 jobs. The Federal Workforce Reduction Through Attrition Act would reduce federal rolls by hiring only one federal worker for every three who retire or leave. In the event that a federal agency does not meet the prescribed hiring ratio, an automatic hiring freeze would be applied until the criteria are satisfied.

Sequestration Cuts Have Entered Effect: What Happens Now?

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CST

It's official: On Friday, March 1st, $85 billion in automatic sequestration cuts have taken effect. So what happens next? Rather than a sudden hit to federal payrolls, sequestration will take the better part of the next two months to enter effect, depending on your agency. Here's a quick timeline of what you can expect in the coming months. After weeks of rancorous debate, President Obama signed an Executive Order instituting sequestration cuts as required in the Balanced Budget and Emergency...

Notice of Back Pay Settlement Between NFFE and GSA

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 CST

Many of you have inquired with the National Office regarding the settlement. Unfortunately, we do not have the resources to respond to each individual inquiry. We will continue to update you as more information becomes available. Here is the latest information:

Back for More: Senate GOP Targets Federal Pay, Retirement and Annuity Supplement for Cuts to Delay Sequester

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

Congressional Republicans did not waste much time targeting the federal workforce for cuts since the 113th Congress was seated this January. We have already seen bills to freeze pay, slash the workforce, and eliminate overtime. Now, Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) is throwing her hat in the ring with a new measure to avoid the sequester on the back of federal employees. The proposal, expected to be released today, calls for extending the federal pay freeze through 2014, quadrupling the amount...

National President Dougan Takes Fight to Stop Furloughs to the Television Airwaves

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

This morning, NFFE National President William R. Dougan sat down with DC WUSA Channel 9's Jessica Doyle to talk about the importance of speaking up in opposition to the coming furloughs of most of the federal workforce. In the interview, Dougan stressed federal workers' first amendment right to contact their members of Congress and demand they put a stop to the looming cuts. "Federal employees need to understand that they're citizens just like every other citizen in this country, and they...

How Will Up to 22 Furlough Days Impact Your Livelihood? Share Your Story Here and We'll Share it with Congress!

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

With just days before massive sequestration cuts hit federal agencies March 1st, the time for federal employees to take action is now! We want to tell Congress, the White House, the media, and the American people how painful these furloughs will be for you, your family, and your community. If we don't speak up for ourselves, no one else will. Take just 30 seconds of your time to make a difference - leave your comment by clicking the link below.

DoD Announces 20% Pay Cut for Most Employees in Official Notification to Congress

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

Wednesday, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta penned a letter to Congress and civilian employees announcing 22 days of furloughs for 700,000 of the Department of Defense's (DoD) 800,000 employees if sequestration takes effect March 1st. Panetta explained that furloughs will be taken one day per week over the course of the 22 remaining weeks of the fiscal year. Employees are not eligible to take annual leave on their furlough days, meaning their biweekly paychecks will be slashed by 20% overnight....

DoD to Labor Leaders: No Furloughs Until April 26th, Some Employees Exempt

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

On a conference call with labor representatives early Wednesday, DoD Assistant Secretary for Readiness and Force Management Frederick Vollrath revealed new details about the Department's furlough plans in the event sequestration is allowed to hit March 1st. According to the most recent estimates, over 85% of the Department's workforce - 700,000 out of 800,000 employees - will be subject to 22 days of furloughs. On the call, Vollrath explained that furlough notices will be issued to affected...

REMINDER: Deadline for 2013 IAM Newsletter and Website Contest is May 10th

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

NFFE Issues Call for Interest in Serving on National Committee on Minority Issues

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

At the 49th NFFE National Convention in Portland, Oregon last year, delegates unanimously voted to create a new national committee to promote awareness of issues facing minorities in the federal workforce. In doing so, they etched into our union's bylaws a commitment to equality and fair opportunity. Now, having received final approval of our new bylaws from the IAM International Headquarters, we are officially ready to begin soliciting members for this groundbreaking committee. The strength...

Administration Outlines Detailed Sequestration Cuts for Dozens of Key Government Services

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

We have been saying it for months - more than a trillion dollars in automatic sequestration cuts will have a massive impact on the ability of the government to complete its mission. We also said that the worst impact of sequestration will not be felt by the agencies themselves, but the people who provide the services - federal employees. To this point, most of the specifics about sequestration's impact have come from the Department of Defense, where plans for across-the-board furloughs at...

President Obama to Request 1 Percent Pay Boost in FY 2014 Budget

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

On a conference call with the Administration Friday afternoon, NFFE was informed that President Obama intends to include a one percent federal pay increase in his Fiscal Year 2014 budget request. The request comes on the heels of a spirited battle between the President and Congress over the 2013 federal pay adjustment. The President, arguing for a 0.5% increase, has hit a brick wall of Republican opposition as the GOP House majority has repeatedly attempted to freeze federal pay for a third...

A Letter from National President Dougan: Support the United Way

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

For over 65 years the AFL-CIO and its partners in the labor community have worked with the United Way to build stronger, more prosperous families and communities. With so many workers today struggling to make ends meet, it is more important than ever to continue supporting this partnership by making a contribution to the United Way. Together we can strengthen the foundations of our communities by ensuring more opportunities for better income, education, and health. While the United Way does...

Obama Calls for Sequestration Delay as Federal Agencies Prepare for Mass Furloughs

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

President Obama held a press conference Tuesday urging Congress develop a measure to delay the more than $85 billion in automatic sequestration cuts, set to take effect March 1st. Though no specific proposal was offered, the President suggested a mix of minor revenue-raising tax reforms and spending cuts could buy time to develop a more comprehensive solution to the sequester. Currently, agencies stand to lose anywhere from 5%-9% of their budgets across-the-board unless a deficit-reduction...

President Obama Signs Bill Lifting Federal Borrowing Limit through May

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

President Obama Tuesday signed a measure suspending the federal debt ceiling through May 18th, delaying what is expected to be another intense debate. The bill also included a "No Budget No Pay" provision to encourage members of Congress to pass a budget on time this year. The bill originated in the House two weeks ago as it became clear to legislators that another political spectacle over the federal borrowing limit was not in their political interests. Instead, they reasoned, focusing on...

Sequestration and the Debt-Ceiling: Your Guide to a Federal Workforce Disaster in the Making (UPDATED)

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

When Congress and the President agreed to a smaller than expected deal to avert the so-called "fiscal cliff" this month, federal employees got a bad deal. This was not because of what was in the deal, which was actually quite positive; it was what had been left out - comprehensive solutions to the looming threat of massive sequestration cuts and a potential government default over the debt ceiling. Without these two critical pieces included in the deal, Congress missed a golden opportunity to...

Senate Follows in House's Footsteps, Passes Bill Delaying Debt Ceiling Adjustment Until May

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 CST

Thursday, the Senate passed a House bill, H.R. 325, to temporarily lift the federal debt limit until May, putting off what is expected to be another rancorous debate about the paying the nation's bills. President Obama is expected to follow with his signature in the coming days. The bill, also known as the "No Budget No Pay" bill, is intended to delay the drama of a debt limit fight so Congress may have the time to deal with looming sequestration cuts and develop a fiscal year 2014 budget....

NFFE National Veterans Committee Sets Ambitious Course at First Meeting

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

Last week, the new NFFE National Veterans Committee held their first conference call to lay out plans for improving awareness and engagement on Veterans' issues within the federal workforce. Led by interim-Chair David Chevalier, the committee boasts more than a dozen members from NFFE locals throughout the country. As part of this new committee's vision, members will strive to educate Veterans on employment and reemployment rights, publicize key veterans benefits, and improve networking...

It's Tax Season: Don't Forget to Deduct Your Union Dues!

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

Tax season is officially here! I know, please hold your applause. Yes, it's never a fun thing to do with your time, but we have a tip that could make your tax return just a bit brighter this year. Did you know that union members who itemize their deductions are permitted to deduct their union dues from their taxable income? Well you are, and there's no reason why you shouldn't see if you're eligible. This could give your tax return a nice boost in just matter of minutes.

Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton Carter: Mass Furloughs Coming to DoD in April Without Sequestration Deal

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

At a press conference with reporters last week, Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton Carter painted a gloomy picture for the Department of Defense (DoD) should Congress fail to reach a deal to avoid sequestration by March 1st. According to Carter, hundreds of thousands of Defense workers would be furloughed if the more than $50 billion in cuts are implemented. Though details are scant at the moment, Carter suggested the employees would be furlough one day per week for every week until the close of...

House Passes Temporary Debt Ceiling Relief with "No Budget, No Pay" Provision

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

Wednesday the House voted to temporarily lift the federal debt limit until May, putting off a major political showdown between the two parties next month. One key provision of measure - known as "No Budget, No Pay" - would temporarily cease payments to members of Congress if a budget is not passed by April 15th. The bill, H.R. 325, is intended to put aside the debt-ceiling brinksmanship for a few months in order to make room for debate over looming sequestration cuts and the fiscal year 2014...

Sequestration and the Debt-Ceiling: Your Guide to a Federal Workforce Disaster in the Making (UPDATED)

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

When Congress and the President agreed to a smaller than expected deal to avert the so-called "fiscal cliff" this January, federal employees got a bad deal. This was not because of what was in the deal, which was actually quite positive; it was what had been left out - comprehensive solutions to the looming threat of massive sequestration cuts and a potential government default over the debt ceiling. Without these two critical pieces included in the deal, Congress missed a golden opportunity...

Vote to Freeze Federal Pay through 2013 Delayed by House Leadership

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

Late Friday afternoon, House Republican leadership backtracked on its plans to hold a vote on a federal pay freeze this week. Due to intense pressure from federal employees and their union representatives, the measure has since been removed from the legislative calendar indefinitely. The measure, H.R. 273, seeks to extend the two-year federal pay freeze through 2013, leaving federal employees without a pay adjustment from 2011-2014. Though Republican leaders intend to bring the vote to the...

It's Not Too Early to Prepare for Legislative Conference 2013

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

Lobbying elected officials is critical in our efforts to improve the lives of federal workers across the country. With the NFFE National Office turning the wheels of power in Washington, D.C., our mission is to ensure that our elected leaders act in the best interest of federal workers and their families. But we are not alone. Many other powerful voices are lobbying politicians on Capitol Hill every day - some that are hostile to the federal workforce. If we are to overcome the negative...

A New Year's Resolution for NFFE Leaders: Ten Steps to Building a More Effective Local

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

There is no magic bullet for recruiting success. Every local is different. With that said, there are several things that all locals can and should be doing to increase visibility and build membership. Here are some of the most effective tricks you can use to make 2013 the best year your local has ever had.

Register Today for the Basic Web Development Class at the IAM's William W. Winpisinger Center

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

This is the official call for the IAM Basic Web Development Class scheduled to be held April 28-May 3, 2013, at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center at Placid Harbor in Hollywood, MD. Offered by the IAM Communications Department, this basic-level class is for lodges just beginning new websites and focuses on designing and constructing web pages appropriate for lodge use. This year's class will also focus on transitioning lodges that are using Microsoft Front Page or...

Congress to Vote Next Week on Bill Extending Federal Pay Freeze Through 2013

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

Just days into the new 113th Congress, one freshman legislator is looking to make his name off the back of federal employees. This week, Rep. Ron DeSantis (R-Fla), and 28 other house Republicans introduced a bill (H.R. 273) to freeze federal pay for a third consecutive year. The measure, which also freezes Congressional pay, is a crafty measure in that it is designed to force federal-worker-friendly politicians into a tough choice: vote for a federal and congressional pay increase, or vote...

January 31 Deadline for Thousands in Union Plus Scholarships Fast Approaching

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

You still have time to apply for a 2013 Union Plus Scholarship. The deadline for applications is January 31. This year's application is entirely online. Scholarships are from $500 to $4,000 and do not require repayment. Since 1992, some 2,200 families have benefited from the Union Plus Scholarship Program, which has awarded union members and their children more than $3.2 million to help make higher education affordable. The Union Plus Scholarship Program is offered through the Union Plus...

Professional Pre-Retirement Training Now Available for NFFE-IAM Members

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

The purpose of this communication is to advise NFFE-IAM membership of a special service now available to NFFE-IAM members preparing for retirement. Double Health USA (DHUSA) is providing free individual pre-retirement counseling to our members. DHUSA IAMAW Pre-Retirement Planning provides individual counseling to pre-retirees to the extent requested and needed in areas such as: Medicare, Medicare Supplemental Insurance, Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Part D Rx Drug Plans, Dental, Vision,...

Sequestration and the Debt-Ceiling: Your Guide to a Federal Workforce Disaster in the Making

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

When Congress and the President agreed to a smaller than expected deal to avert the so-called "fiscal cliff" this month, federal employees got a bad deal. This was not because of what was in the deal, which was actually quite positive; it was what had been left out - comprehensive solutions to the looming threat of massing sequestration cuts and a potential government default over the debt ceiling. Without these two critical pieces included in the deal, Congress missed a golden opportunity to...

Apply Now for the Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarship, Hundreds of Other FEEA Scholarships

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

The application for this year's annual FEEA Scholarship competition, including the Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarship, is now available! This year, two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to NFFE members seeking to further their educational attainment. You can download your application here. Applicants for the Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarship must be a NFFE-IAM member in good standing or a spouse or child of a member in good standing. All applicants must be accepted into an accredited...

New Edition of the 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

2012's final edition of the National Federation of Federal Employees' (NFFE) quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available!Featuring news and photos from NFFE's 49th National Convention, this edition paints a detailed picture of what the next four years will look like for NFFE, and the federal workforce as a whole. Here's what's inside.

Obama Orders End to Federal Pay Freeze; Congress Says 'Not So Fast'

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

Last month, President Obama issued an executive order bringing an end to the more than two-year federal pay freeze. Effective March 27th, 2013, federal workers will see a pay increase of 0.5%; a small sum, but more than anything federal employees have seen since 2010. In the closing days of the 112th Congress, however, the House of Representatives voted to freeze federal pay through the remainder of 2013. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick (R-PA) was passed by a surprisingly...

What the Fiscal Cliff Deal Means for Federal Employees

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 00:00:00 CST

As many of us were ringing in the New Year with family and friends, Washington was the site of feverish activity surrounding the so-called 'fiscal cliff.' In the wee hours of New Year's Day, the Senate passed a compromise agreement, which was passed by the House later that evening. With the dust cleared and the 112th Congress coming to an end, it is important that every federal employee understand what happened (and what didn't) in this deal. Here's your comprehensive guide to the fiscal...

National President Dougan Pens Letter to House Legislators Before Vote Impacting Federal Retirement Security

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 CST

On behalf of the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE) and the 110,000 federal employees our union represents throughout the United States and abroad, I am writing to urge you to vote "No" on H.R. 6684, which is expected on the House floor today. H.R. 6684 would require massive increases in contributions to pensions for current and future federal employees. Specifically, the language in this bill would require both FERS and CSRS civilian federal employees to divert an additional 5%...

Provision Slashing 36,000 Defense Jobs Survives Conference Committee

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 CST

The Department of Defense (DoD) would be required to reduce the number of civilian and contractor employees by 5% under the 2013 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), approved by a House-Senate conference committee Tuesday. In total, the reduction is expected to eliminate as many as 36,000 civilian defense jobs over the next five years. The workforce reduction provision was originally excluded from the House version of the bill, but was snuck into the Senate version by Sen. John McCain...

Day of Action a Big Success as Capitol Hill, Media, Change Tune on Federal Employee Compensation Cuts

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 00:00:00 CST

The results from Federal Employees Day of Action are in, and they're big. In little more than a day, federal employees wrote more than 1,000 letters to over 200 Capitol Hill offices, made countless more phone calls, and put the issue of stopping federal workforce cuts back on the media map. In that same span, well over a dozen media outlets published print, digital, and radio stories on the event, including three articles from the Washington Post, an interview on Federal News Radio, and an...

IAM Announces Opening of 2013 Photography Contest - Submit your Photos Today!

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:00:00 CST

This is the official announcement of the 2013 IAM Photography Contest. It is open to all IAM members in good standing. Entries should catch IAM members at work in non-posed photos. Winning entries will win a cash prize and will appear in the 2014 IAM Calendar. Two dollars from each calendar sale goes to Guide Dogs of America. Photos may be in film or digital format. However, digital photos must be shot with at least a 3-megapixel camera and must be set at the "fine" setting. There is no fee...

Federal Employees Day of Action is TODAY! Click Here to Do Your Part

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:00:00 CST

Federal Employees Day of Action is finally here and the momentum is already starting to build. Federal workers from all across the country are signing letters to congress, calling their elected officials, and building awareness on social media. Why are so many federal employees stepping up and speaking out? The threat of Washington taking us over the fiscal cliff is scary for all Americans, but particularly so for federal employees. Depending on how Washington avoids the cliff - if at all -...

2013 Local Financial Officer Courses at IAM's Winpisinger Center Now Open - Enroll Today!

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 00:00:00 CST

This is to announce that next year there will be five Financial Officers' Seminars conducted by the General Secretary-Treasurer's Department. These seminars will be conducted at the William W. Winpisinger Education & Technology Center at Placid Harbor in Hollywood, Maryland and are limited to financial officers only. If you are interested in attending the Financial Officers' Seminar, please review the full notice and complete the requisite registration forms. Notice and registration...

Federal Employees Day of Action is December 18th - Help Us Stop Washington from Taking Feds Over the Fiscal Cliff

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 00:00:00 CST

Washington politicians are at it again. If they don't find a way to avoid the "fiscal cliff" by year's end, federal workers could see devastating cuts to their pay, retirement, health care, and jobs. Congress may have created this problem, but it is up to you to fix it. On Federal Employee Day of Action - December 18, 2012 - call the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and tell Congress "don't take federal employees over the cliff!" Be sure to call on your own time, using your own...

IAM Announces Opening of 2013 Newsletter and Website Contest; Enter Your Publication Today!

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 00:00:00 CST

The 2013 IAM Newsletter and Website Competition is officially underway! NFFE locals and the national office smashed records with a total of 19 awards last time, and we're looking for an even more impressive performance this year. Honoring excellence in both print and digital labor journalism, the contest awards IAM districts and locals for their contributions to building the union movement. The contest is open to all local and district lodges in good standing having publications that are...

Register Now for Women's Program and Human Rights Seminar at the Winpisinger Center

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 CST

We are happy to inform you that space is still available in two upcoming classes at the William W. Winpisinger Center: the Basic Women's Program and the Human Rights Training. Both classes are scheduled to run simultaneously on February 24th-March 1st and August 25th-30th of 2013. The Basic Women's Program offers our union sisters the opportunity to come together in a learning environment and network with their peers from across the nation. The Human Rights Training emphasizes critical...

Senate Approves Defense Bill Including Workforce Cuts, Contractor Pay Caps

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 CST

The Senate this week approved its version of the 2013 National Defense Authorization Act, a Department of Defense (DoD) appropriations measure to fund next year's Defense activities. The controversial bill included a civilian workforce reduction of 5% and a cap on contractor executive salaries. Supported by a unanimous 98-0 vote, the bill now moves on to a House-Senate conference committee to hammer out differences with the House version and develop a final proposal. Introduced by Sen. John...

Senate Supports Measure to Reform Hatch Act, Soften Penalties

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 CST

The U.S. Senate Friday unanimously passed the 2012 Hatch Act Modernization Act, a measure to reform the Hatch Act for the first time in nearly 20 years. Among other key changes, the legislation lightens penalties for offenders and loosens restrictions for state and local employees seeking elected office. This is a welcome development for a law that is well known as disproportionately harsh for the small violations that typically trigger an investigation. For example, something as small as...

NFFE and Other Groups Call on Elected Officials to Spare Feds from Further Cuts

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 00:00:00 CST

In a letter sent to the Congressional leadership, NFFE and other federal employee organizations urged the exclusion of federal workers from deeper cuts to pay and benefits. The message: feds have already sacrificed enough. Organized by the Federal-Postal coalition, the letter gained the signatures of 27 individual federal employee organizations intent on stopping the unfair treatment of federal employees. NFFE has been working non-stop in partnership with these and other federal employee...

NFFE's Young Federal Leaders Initiative Ready for Action with New Strategic Plan

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 00:00:00 CST

There's no question that NFFE's Young Federal Leaders (YFL) initiative is gathering steam. At locals throughout the country, YFL materials are starting to make their way onto local bulletin boards, websites, and social media pages. At the national level, the YFL National Committee has grown to over 15 members from four separate departments and agencies. With momentum firmly on their side, the YFL National Committee is proud to announce the digital release of its first ever strategic plan. The...

NFFE Members Save Big with Member-Only Insurance Benefits

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 CST

One of the many benefits of NFFE membership is exclusive access to discounted products and services through organizations like Union Plus, Apple, and Geico. Arguably the best benefit offered to NFFE members also happens to be one of the least known: supplemental insurance benefits. Through NFFE's partnership with Professional Benefit Administrators (PBA) NFFE members can save hundreds of dollars a year on dental, vision, auto, life, and disability insurance. In fact, many members save more...

With Election in the Rear View Mirror, Serious Threats on the Horizon for Federal Employees

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 CST

Winning by a count of 303 electoral votes to Republican opponent Mitt Romney's 206 (Florida's 29 EV's are still outstanding), Barack Obama cinched a second four-year term as President of the United States. Among the many responsibilities of the President is to lead the Executive branch, effectively serving as the CEO of the federal government. Now that we know who the boss is, what does this mean for us, the employees? In short, federal employees dodged a major bullet. With this brief scare...

A Veterans Day Message from the Desk of the President

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 CST

Veterans Day is a day to celebrate and honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to sacrifice for the common good. It provides an opportunity for us to remember and honor the sacrifices our veterans have made in defending our country and protecting the rights and privileges we all enjoy. The debt owed every man and woman who has put on the uniform to serve their country can never be repaid in full. Their stories and history are woven into the rich and...

From the Desk of the President: Call for Interest in Formation of NFFE Veterans Committee

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 CST

The National Federation of Federal Employees recognizes that veterans face a unique variety of issues, concerns, and difficulties in the federal workplace. To better serve our members who are veterans, our union is founding the NFFE Veterans Committee to aid and assist them with these challenges. The committee will meet regularly to advise and consult on key issues and concerns affecting veterans in the federal workplace, as well as an extended community focused on veterans' services....

The Key to Your Digital Union Office: Get Your User's Guide to the NFFE Website Here

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Every year, hundreds of thousands of users register millions of hits on the NFFE website, consuming news, trainings, representational forms, visibility materials, and countless other resources. During that time some members were lucky enough to receive training at the Winpisinger Center, or read the occasional announcement of a new site feature. But by and large, however, NFFE's site users were left to discover the site by themselves. That is, until now. We are proud to announce the release...

Special Message from FEEA: FEEA Stands Ready to Assist Feds Affected by Sandy

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 CDT

With Hurricane Sandy bearing down on the East Coast, the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA) stands ready to assist civilian federal and postal employees impacted by the storm. Disaster grants of up to $500 will be available to employees in hard-hit areas experiencing verifiable hardship. Due to limited funding, FEEA will prioritize grants for those with major property damage or other significant hardship. Employees in need of help can download a disaster relief application...

FLRA and MSPB Training Slides from NFFE Convention Now Available!

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 CDT

At NFFE's 49th National Convention earlier this month, we were lucky to have the leaders from both the Federal Labor Relations Authority and Merit Systems Protection Board join us to deliver trainings. These trainings were widely popular with those in attendance. Now you can have a look at them too! Just click the links below to access these valuable trainings.

Federal Salary Council Finds Big Jump as Public-Private Pay Gap Hits 34.6%

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 CDT

The Federal Salary Council (FSC) recently announced findings from its annual report on the public-private pay gap, and the numbers are eye popping. In the matter of just one year, the private sector pay premium shot up from 26.3% to 34.6%. For federal employees working comparable jobs to these private sector workers, this means that they are underpaid by nearly 35%. Much of the increase in federal pay gaps in recent years has been attributed to the two-year federal pay freeze, changes in the...

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 CDT

This year's third edition of the National Federation of Federal Employees' (NFFE) quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available! Featuring a side by side comparison of the presidential candidates' positions on key federal worker issues like pay and retirement, this edition paints a detailed picture of what's at stake for you on November 6th. Here's what's inside:

The Day that Was: A Recap of Days Three and Four of the 49th NFFE National Convention

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Packed with new business, awards, and two different "big announcements," days three and four of NFFE's 49th National Convention were just as action-packed as the preceding two. Day three started with a bang, as members affirmed NFFE's endorsement of Barack Obama for President of the United States. In a speech before an electrified audience, President Dougan made the case for re-electing the man who opened more doors to federal employees and their issues than anyone in Washington. gan argued...

Photos from NFFE's 49th National Convention are Now Available! Get Them Here

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE's 49th National Convention, held in Portland, Oregon, came and went in the blink of an eye. Didn't get a chance to be there yourself? Don't worry, because you can view the entire weeklong Convention in just one photo album. Below you can find the official Convention album straight from the NFFE camera to your desktop. You can also learn more about the comings and goings of the Convention by reading our daily synopses, known as the "The Day that Was" series. So what are you...

The Day that Was: A Recap of Day Two of the 49th NFFE National Convention

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 00:00:00 CDT

After a rousing day of speeches by luminaries in government and labor, Day two impressed in equal measure with appearances by Office of Personnel Management Director John Berry, Federal Labor Relations Authority Chair Carol Waller Pope, and Merit Systems Protection Board Chair Susan Tsui Grundmann. The agenda also featured a roundtable discussion by FLRA General Counsel Julie Clark, FLRA Regional Director Jean Perata, and FLRA Regional Director Peter Sutton. Kicking off the Day two, Berry...

The Day that Was: A Recap of Day One of the NFFE National Convention

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Day one of the 49th NFFE National Convention is officially in the books, and the mood inside the convention hall here in Portland, OR could only be described as emotional. Packed with speeches from labor leaders within and outside of NFFE, the message of the day was clear: there is strength in unity. Throughout the entire first day of the Convention, the only force to rival the passion of the speakers was the roar of the delegates in attendance. Representing members from across the country,...

NFFE National Convention Officially Kicks Off!

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 CDT

It's official - after four years of hard work by our locals and national office, the 49th NFFE National Convention is officially under way! Held at the historic Benson Hotel in Portland, Oregon, the Convention will continue through October 4th. Be on the lookout for the latest Convention news and updates on our website www.nffe.org and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/NFFEUnion). Today is a great day to be union, and an even better day to be NFFE!

National President Dougan Talks Jobs, Sequestration, and the Presidential Election with Federal News Radio

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 00:00:00 CDT

This past Friday, NFFE National President William R. Dougan sat down with Federal News Radio's Francis Rose to talk about the union's priorities as we enter an immensely important period for federal workforce policy. With the threat of sequestration looming, potential changes in the White House and Congress, and an extended pay freeze set to kick-in, there is a great deal at stake in the next several months. Listen in as President Dougan gives the union's perspective on what's to come for...

FEEA Helping the Families of Fallen Diplomats

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 00:00:00 CDT

The Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA) honors our fallen diplomats, working to recognize their service and sacrifice by providing educational assistance to surviving children through FEEA's Diplomatic Fund. The Fund was set up by the Department of State and the Department of Defense in August 1995 to help the families of three individuals who were killed while on a diplomatic mission in Bosnia. Today, we stand with the families of Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens and...

Romney Promises 10% Reduction in Federal Jobs, Wage and Benefit Cuts, in Recent Policy Speech

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:00:00 CDT

With the presidential elections less than two months away, candidates have started to assert their positions on key federal employee issues. Republican nominee Mitt Romney offered his stance and other key policy positions in a speech before the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Los Angeles, CA Monday. His message: cut federal jobs, wages, and benefits to curb federal spending. The 10% reduction in federal jobs Romney is calling for would result in the loss of roughly 200,000 jobs through...

Federal Workforce Standing on Precipice as Administration Report Outlines "Devastating" Sequestration Cuts

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 CDT

"Devastating impact." "Threat." "Destructive." These are the words the Obama White House chose to describe the $1.2 trillion in impending sequestration cuts in a recent report detailing the automatic reductions. The report, issued Friday as required by the recently-approved Sequestration Transparency Act of 2012, contained the most detail yet on just how substantial the budget reductions will be. These cuts are across the board, meaning they will impact nearly every single agency in...

Budget Experts: Forthcoming Sequestration Cuts Will Result in Furloughs in 2013

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Several leading budget experts believe that next year's massive sequestration cuts will result in furloughs and RIFs at many federal agencies, according a recent piece in Government Executive magazine. The experts, speaking at the magazine's annual Excellence in Government conference last week, predicted tough choices if the scheduled $100+ billion cuts were to be implemented. Chief among them is Bill Hoagland, a longtime budget advisor to former Senators Bill Frist and Pete Domenici. He...

REMINDER: 49th NFFE National Convention is Just Around the Corner

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 00:00:00 CDT

As summer comes to a close, we are now less than one month away from the beginning of the 49th NFFE National Convention. Scheduled for October 1-4, 2012, the union's quadrennial Convention will take place at the historic Benson Hotel in downtown Portland. Time is running out, so locals are encouraged to make their final preparations to attend. Our original block of rooms has been filled, but rooms may also be booked at hotels in the immediate vicinity of the Convention site. Here are two such...

New Estimates Suggest Agencies Will See 7-8% Reductions Across-the-Board from Sequestration; Few Good Options Remain for Feds

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

New estimates from the Professional Services Council, an organization of government contracting firms, suggest Defense and nearly all non-Defense agencies will see cuts in the 7-8% range when sequestration takes effect next year. Sequestration cuts of over $100 billion are mandated for 2013 as a result of the Congressional "Super Committee's" failure to agree on a debt reduction deal last year. Over the next decade, more than $1 trillion in cuts will be leveled on federal agencies absent an...

From the Desk of the President: Honoring Those Who Labor

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

We celebrate the proud history of all workers across the country this Labor Day. No matter what your job is, the collective efforts of us all make this nation strong and safe. On this day, we acknowledge the contributions of the men and women who came before us; who toiled and sacrificed to build the great nation we have inherited from them. When we survey the legacy given to us, we stand on the shoulders of giants. Despite our bountiful inheritance, millions of our brothers and sisters...

Register Now for the Next Communicator's Class at the IAMAW's William W. Winpisinger Center

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

This is the official announcement of the IAM's Communicator class to be held December 9-14, 2012, at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center at Placid harbor in Hollywood, MD. Offered by the IAM Communications Department, this basic course is geared toward lodge Communicators who are not publishing newsletters or websites. The course is designed to upgrade their skills and take their lodge communications to the next level by providing instruction in: news writing, internet...

FEEA Stands Ready to Assist Feds Affected by Hurricane Isaac

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

With Hurricane Isaac pummeling the Gulf Coast, the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA) stands ready to assist civilian federal and postal employees impacted by the storm. Disaster grants of up to $500 will be available to employees in hard-hit areas. Employees in need of help can download a disaster relief application at www.feea.org/Disaster or call FEEA at 1-800-323-4140 for more information. Phone lines may be very busy if damage is widespread. Callers are asked to be...

NFFE Locals, National Office, Smash Records with 19 Awards in 2012 IAM Newsletter and Website Competition

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

The winners of the 2012 IAM Newsletter and Website Contest have been released, and the results are nothing short of incredible. Of the 46 total awards granted, NFFE took home more than 40% of them, with 19 combined awards. An astonishing 13 of those awards went to five NFFE locals (from four separate agencies) all throughout the country, with the remaining six going to the NFFE National Office. Locals taking home awards this year are...

National President Dougan Talks Pay Freeze Extension with Federal News Radio (Audio)

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Wednesday, NFFE National President William R. Dougan joined Federal News Radio's Francis Rose to discuss the recently announced federal pay freeze extension. Covering everything from federal pay to promoting the importance of public service, the wide-ranging interview can be accessed by clicking the following link.

Federal Pay Freeze Extension: What it Means for Your Wallet

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

As many of you have likely heard by now, earlier this week the White House issued a letter to Congress calling for a three-month extension of the federal pay freeze. Here's what you need to know about the extension and how it impacts you. The federal pay freeze, beginning in January 1, 2011, was scheduled to end on January 1, 2013, lasting two full years. The new extension will extend the pay freeze through March of 2013, making the earliest date for an increase April 1, 2013. At that point,...

Back for More: National Newspaper Smears Federal Workers with Another Misleading Article on Retirement Benefits

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

For the past several years, the nation's most widely circulated newspaper, USA Today, has published high profile stories disparaging the pay and benefits of federal employees. One story claimed federal employees earn double that of workers in the private sector despite conclusive BLS reports confirming federal workers earn 26% less than their private sector counterparts. Another claimed that the number of federal employees earning $150,000 per year exploded under President Obama, without...

Feds Helping Feds: FEEA Offers Millions in Emergency Loans and Scholarships to Federal Employees

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

As union sisters and brothers, we understand that there is strength in working together toward common goals. In this spirit NFFE was a founding member of the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA), the only organization dedicated solely to helping federal workers and their families with emergency assistance and scholarships. Since that day in 1986, FEEA has given millions to federal workers in need. In the last five years alone, FEEA has been able to assist over 1,900 feds...

Detailed Agenda for 49th NFFE National Convention Now Available!

Tue, 14 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

The NFFE National Office today released a detailed agenda for members planning to attend the 49th NFFE National Convention in Portland, Oregon. Attendees and other non-attendee members can access the agenda by clicking here. Scheduled for Oct. 1-4, members from across the nation are encouraged to join one another for a week of rousing speeches, networking, and internal union business. The Convention is an excellent opportunity for delegates from every one of NFFE's nearly 200 Locals to come...

FINAL REMINDER: Credential Forms for 49th NFFE National Convention Due August 15th

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE's 49th National Convention is less than two months away. By now, locals should have received their credential forms, and started making arrangements for delegates to represent their members in Portland this fall. Credential forms were mailed to every NFFE local on June 1, 2012. These forms must be returned to the NFFE National Office by no later than August 15th - just one week from today - in order for delegates to be seated at the Convention. The white copy of the triplicate form...

Congress Plays the Blame Game over Sequestration, Feds Left in State of Uncertainty

Sat, 04 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Attention federal employees: if you are looking for an uplifting story to buoy your spirits this weekend, shut down your computer immediately. To date there have been a long list of studies published on the potential fallout from $109 billion in mandatory sequestration cuts scheduled to hit the government on January 2, 2013. As NFFE reported last week, estimates predict that hundreds of thousands of federal jobs would be lost. This week, President Obama's budget office affirmed these fears,...

Congress Reaches Deal on Six Month Stop-Gap Spending Measure to Avoid Shutdown

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Good news, federal employees: It appears we will not have another government shutdown scare when the fiscal year expires on September 30, 2012. According to Government Executive, Congressional leaders from both parties have agreed to a six month stop-gap spending measure to keep the government funded through March of 2013. Spokespersons for both the Democrats and Republicans suggest the measure will be crafted during Congress's month-long August recess and come up for a vote during...

REMINDER: Credential Forms for 49th NFFE National Convention Due August 15th

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE's 49th National Convention is just a two short months away. By now, locals should have received their credential forms, and started making arrangements for delegates to represent their members in Portland this fall. Credential forms were mailed to every NFFE local on June 1, 2012. These forms must be returned to the NFFE National Office by no later than August 15th - less than two weeks from today - in order for delegates to be seated at the Convention. The white copy of the triplicate...

Congressman: Sequestration Will Kill 89,000 Defense Jobs - Pink Slips Coming as Soon as September

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

In a Congressional hearing Thursday, Congressman Randy Forbes (R-VA) warned of the dire consequences facing the Department of Defense and its employees if $56.7 billion in scheduled sequestration cuts were to be made on January 2nd. In total, Forbes estimates 89,000 civilian jobs will be lost in the RIF if Congress cannot come to a separate agreement to offset the cuts. Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Readiness and Force Management Frederick Vollrath told the subcommittee that RIF...

Children of Federal Workers' Same Sex Partners Eligible for Health Insurance Under New Regulation

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

According to a recent article in the Federal Times, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) published a new regulation last week extending eligibility for FEHB and FEDV insurance benefits to children of same sex domestic partners employed by the federal government. Under the new regulation, these children will be categorized as "step-children" since regulations do not currently recognize the children of one individual in a domestic partnership to be the legal progeny of the other partner....

Report: Sequestration Cuts May Cost Nearly 280,000 Federal Jobs by 2013

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

As the presidential campaign kicks into high gear, the issues at the front of most voters' minds are job growth and the economy. What many don't realize at the moment is just how close the country is to taking a major hit to the employment rolls. If sequestration - the automatic $115 billion reduction in government funding mandated by the failure of the Congressional Super Committee - is allowed to take effect this year, a total of 2 million American jobs could be lost. According to a new...

Annual SAVE Award Competition Officially Open; Submit Your Ideas Today!

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Do you want to make a difference by saving millions of taxpayer dollars and make government work more effectively? Well now's your chance: NFFE is encouraging all of our members to participate in the fourth annual SAVE Award Competition. The annual Securing American Value and Efficiency (SAVE) Award competition has asks federal employees to submit their own ideas on how to save taxpayer dollars by improving efficiencies at the workplace. Since it began a few years ago, over 75,000 employees...

REMINDER: Credential Forms for 49th NFFE National Convention Due August 15th

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE's 49th National Convention is just a few short months away. By now, locals should have received their credential forms, and started making arrangements for delegates to represent their members in Portland this fall. Credential forms were mailed to every NFFE local on June 1, 2012. These forms must be returned to the NFFE National Office by no later than August 15th - less than one month from today - in order for delegates to be seated at the Convention. The white copy of the triplicate...

Dougan Federal Times Op-Ed: Benefits Victory for Seasonal Firefighters Just First Step

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

It comes as no surprise that federal employee benefits have been the subject of intense debate in recent years. From pay freezes to retirement cuts and health care reforms, there has been no shortage of discussions for or against altering your benefits. The one benefits story that hasn't been told is that of our nation's temporary seasonal workforce. On the surface, they seem like any other federal employees doing the business of their nation: They are firefighters battling wildfires, rangers...

It Pays to Be NFFE - Members Only Insurance and Consumer Discounts Save Bundles

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Did you know that NFFE-IAM members have access to some of the best consumer, financial, and educational benefits around? You can save on everything from vacations and laptop computers, to life and dental insurance. In fact, many members save more money than they spend in dues each year! So what kind of benefits do members get that non-members don't? Members are offered steep discounts on dental plans, vision plans, life insurance, auto insurance, and disability insurance. Members can also...

Candidates for NFFE National Office Announced; Biographies Now Available Online

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

This October, NFFE will hold its 49th National Convention at the historic Benson Hotel in Portland, Oregon. Among other important duties, delegates to the Convention will elect officers to NFFE's National Executive Council (NEC) to serve four-year terms. The NEC is comprised of the National President, National Secretary-Treasurer, and seven at-large National Vice Presidents. Linked below is a list of all candidates who have accepted pre-convention nominations. Further candidates for any of...

Seasonal Firefighters' Campaign for Health Care Victorious as White House Extends New Benefits

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

It is said that one must never doubt that a small group of committed individuals can change the world. Today, John Lauer, a NFFE member and federal firefighter, did exactly that by succeeding in his campaign to extend health care benefits to the more than 8,000 wildland firefighters battling blazes all throughout the country. The news came today as the White House announced an interim change to federal regulations which leave temporary seasonal employees like Lauer ineligible to buy into the...

House and Senate Fail to Appropriate Federal Pay Adjustment; Obama Calls for End to Freeze

Thu, 05 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Last Thursday, President Barack Obama made a threat to veto the House version of the fiscal 2013 Financial Services appropriations bill in an effort to confront the ongoing silence in the House and Senate on the federal pay raise. "[A] permanent pay freeze is neither sustainable nor desirable," read a White House Statement of Administration Policy. "The Administration encourages the Congress to support the proposed 0.5 percent pay raise." Despite White House pressure to end the freeze, House...

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Mon, 02 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

This year's second edition of the National Federation of Federal Employees' (NFFE) quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available! Featuring a reprisal of the many accomplishments made before, during, and after the 2012 IAM Legislative Conference, the second quarter edition chronicles how feds are fighting back against attacks on pay, benefits, and jobs. Here is what's inside:

VIDEO: NFFE-IAM Member John Lauer Talks Wildland Firefighters' Health Care Campaign with NBC Nightly News

Mon, 02 Jul 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Friday night, NFFE-IAM member John Lauer and fellow members of the Tatanka hotshot wildland firefighter crew joined NBC Nightly News to discuss their struggle for health benefits. Despite the danger they face on and off the fire line, temporary seasonal wildland firefighters cannot purchase health insurance from their employer, the federal government. In recent weeks they have fought back with a campaign calling on the government to extend the health benefits they have earned. Thus far, the...

Wildland Firefighter John Lauer's Petition for Health Benefits Ignites Media Firestorm; Sign it Here!

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Over the past two weeks NFFE has told you the story of John Lauer, a wildland firefighter and NFFE member who took a stand for thousands of his fellow federal firemen who lack health insurance. At first, word only spread in a trickle. But that has all changed in the matter of a few days, and in a very, very big way. Just this week Lauer's story has been featured in major media outlets like the Washington Post, Denver Post, and the Rachel Maddow Show. All told, dozens of individual stories...

Poll: 1 in 3 Americans Think Mass Layoffs of Federal Workers Would Help Economy

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Federal employees, prepare to be dumbfounded. A recent poll conducted by research giant Rasmussen found that 32 percent of Americans believe that layoffs of 100,000 federal workers would be good for the economy. 47 percent said it would be bad for the economy with another 10 percent having no opinion. The take home message: less than 50% of the population understands the critical role federal employees play in our economy. So what exactly do federal workers do to help our economy? Here are...

Reminder: Amendment and Resolution Proposals for 49th NFFE National Convention Due August 1st

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 CDT

As the NFFE National Convention approaches, it is important to ensure that all proposed amendments and resolutions to the NFFE national bylaws be submitted by close of business August 1st. Amendments propose changes to the Bylaws and are specifically addressed in Article XV of the National Bylaws. Resolutions do not change the national bylaws. Instead, resolutions set policy or direct NFFE to act in ways not otherwise covered by the bylaws. All proposed amendments and resolutions must be...

Want to Make a Difference? Share Your Story with the 'I Am a Federal Employee' Blog!

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Let's face it - it's been a rough two years for federal employees. Between the pay freeze, RIFs, budget reductions, and retirement cuts, we are all just about at the end of our ropes. If we truly want to turns things around, we need to come out and say it ourselves. That is why we are encouraging all federal workers to share their stories on www.IamaFederalEmployee.org! Our goal is to change the public perception of federal employees by sharing the struggles, accomplishments, and sacrifices...

Over 100,000 Signatures Strong - Wildland Firefighter's Health Care Petition Becomes an "All for One" and "One for All" Effort

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE is asking federal workers to support the cause of one man for the sake of many. His name is John Lauer, NFFE-IAM member and seasonal wildland firefighter with the U.S. Forest Service. John is on a mission to help the brave men and women on the fire line gain access to affordable health insurance - and his work has just begun. What started first as a small petition among John and his fire crew has since skyrocketed into a 108,105 signature rallying cry for health care - all in the matter...

Federal Pay Raise Shot Down by Senate Subcommittee

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Last Thursday, a Senate panel advanced a spending bill that is suspected to further extend the pay freeze for federal employees in light of a recommended pay raise. With no funding or specific language regarding federal employee's salaries, the bill's ambiguity leaves many to question what is to come next for federal workers. The Senate Appropriations Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee remained silent on the issue of a possible pay raise for the upcoming year that was...

Do Your Part to Demand Health Benefits for Wildland Firefighters; Sign This Petition Today!

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE is encouraging all federal workers to sign this petition in support of extending health insurance benefits to seasonal wildland firefighters. Every year these dedicated women and men protect homes and businesses from being consumed by wild fires. Many return year after year, but because their jobs are classified as "temporary" they are ineligible to buy into the government health insurance program. This is dangerous and physically demanding work. These workers have earned access to a...

House of Representatives Votes to Freeze Their Own Pay Through 2013

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 CDT

In a surprising move last week, the House of Representatives voted to freeze their own pay through 2013. The vote came after two years of non-stop efforts to freeze federal pay and cut benefits, culminating in a two-year pay freeze and a hefty increase in pension contributions for new hires. Just last week in fact, Congress attached a federal pay freeze extension to two separate pieces of legislation, the first dealing with student loan interest rates and the latter authorizing budget...

Senate Committee Approves Measure to Rein in Excessive Contractor Executive Pay

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 00:00:00 CDT

One of the major headlines in the federal workforce community in recent months was the decision to increase reimbursement rates for top government contractor executives by tens of thousands of dollars - $70,000 over the last two years, to be exact. Outrage ensued as federal employees trapped in a two-year pay freeze learned that contractor executives were eligible to personally draw upwards of $763,029 from the taxpayers in addition to the charges for services rendered by their companies....

Republican Leadership Proposes Tapping Federal Pensions to Pay for Student Loan Interest Rate Extension

Mon, 04 Jun 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, House and Senate Republican leadership penned a letter to President Obama offering their proposals to prevent student loan interest rates from increasing. Their plan for funding the extension? Dipping into your retirement savings. Signed by House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH), House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA), Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), and Senate Republican Whip Jon Kyl (R-AZ), the letter calls for a 1.2% increase in the amount current employees...

NFFE Local 1904 Saves Job of "Exemplary" VA Physician After Unlawful Firing

Sat, 02 Jun 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Dr. Joseph "Edward" DeJean is by every standard a good doctor. A career physician and federal employee, Dr. DeJean worked as a radiologist at the New Orleans VA Medical Center in Louisiana for 25 years. That was until July of 2010, when Dr. DeJean's supervisor fired him after he wrongfully determined that DeJean had earlier failed a "30-minute pop quiz." An exemplary figure, Dr. DeJean did not have a single peer or patient complaint on his record. Respected by patients and colleagues, DeJean...

Donate to the Federal Employees Education & Assistance Fund by May 31st and Have Your Donation Quadrupled

Tue, 29 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

We have now arrived at the final week of FEEA's May fundraiser, and thanks to 161 feds who so far have donated a total of $12,345. With our special "triple the impact" match from the BlueCross/BlueShield Association and GEICO, our total heading into the homestretch is $37,035. But we still need to raise at least $12,655 in individual donations to ensure we receive the full $25,000 match from both of our generous corporate sponsors. If you have not yet made your gift, please do it today.

Photos from the 2012 IAM Legislative Conference Are Now Available. See Them Here!

Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Another legislative conference is in the books and hundreds of NFFE-IAM members are returning home from a very successful week of lobbying their elected officials in Washington, D.C. This legislative conference saw speeches from some of the most prominent figures in politics with appearances by House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Sen. Tom Harkin, Rep. George Miller, Rep. Donna Edwards, writer Charlie Cook and many more. Most importantly, members successfully lobbied against a harmful...

Attempt to Ban Official Time for Protecting Employees Falters After Pressure From Workers

Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

A recent amendment targeting official time, an essential component of effective labor-management relations in the federal sector, was defeated in the House of Representatives this week after an intense call-in and lobbying campaign from federal employees. The proposed amendment would have severely limited the official time union representatives use to represent employees in grievances, unfair labor practices, and discrimination cases. NFFE-IAM members in Washington for the IAM Legislative...

NFFE Signs Statement of Support for Employer Support of Guard and Reserve; Encourages Local Participation

Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Thursday, NFFE National President William R. Dougan joined David L. McGinnis, Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs, to sign a statement support for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). ESGR is a Department of Defense office dedicated to protecting the employment rights of National Guard and Reserve personnel nationwide. As proponents of the guard, reserve, and active duty military, NFFE and ESGR have partnered up to raise awareness about these brave...

Senate Committee Approves Bill Extending Benefits to Same Sex Partners of Federal Employees

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

The Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs today passed S. 1910, a bill to extend federal benefits to same sex partners of federal employees. Formally known as the Federal Employees Domestic Partner Benefits and Obligations Act, the newly approved measure seeks to open health, retirement, transportation, and other benefits to federal workers in committed same-sex partnerships. Were the bill to become law, an estimated 30,000 federal workers living in domestic...

ACTION ALERT: TODAY Tell the House of Representatives to Vote NO on Amendment 38 to Ban Official Time

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Once again, politicians are trying to beat up on federal employees and their unions by eliminating official time for union representatives. This time is used to represent employees in grievance proceedings, unfair labor practices, and discrimination investigations. Without it, many will suffer. Congress is trying to tack this harmful provision onto an important piece of legislation in a last-ditch effort to target federal unions. We urge all federal workers to call Congress (on your own time,...

ACTION ALERT: May 16th Tell House to Vote NO on Amendment 38 to Ban Official Time

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Once again, politicians are trying to beat up on federal employees and their unions by eliminating official time for union representatives. This time is used to represent employees in grievance proceedings, unfair labor practices, and discrimination investigations. Without it, many will suffer. We urge all federal workers to call Congress (on your own time, using your own phone) and tell them to VOTE NO ON AMENDMENT 38 to the National Defense Authorization Act.

NFFE Position Papers for 2012 Legislative Conference Now Available!

Fri, 11 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

As you know, the 2012 IAM Legislative Conference is just around the corner. Next week, hundreds of NFFE-IAM members from across the country will come to Washington, D.C. and talk federal worker issues with their members of Congress. NFFE's Legislative Department has assembled these position papers for members to bring with them to Capitol Hill. Give them a look:

Five Percent Increase in Employee Pension Contributions Passes House

Fri, 11 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Thursday, a bill containing a five percent increase in federal worker pension contributions passed the House of Representatives, bringing with it considerable risk for already cash-strapped federal families. Introduced by Republican Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI), the Sequester Replacement Reconciliation Act seeks to increase current federal workers' retirement contributions for FERS employees from 0.8% to 5.8%, and from 7% to 12% for those enrolled in CSRS. In short, if this bill...

A Letter From the Desk of the President: Honoring Our Nurses

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

It is only appropriate that this week, in addition to recognizing public servants, we also recognize our nation's dedicated nurses. As I write you today, tens of millions of nurses across America and the world are sharing with their fellow man an essential, yet rare, commodity: care. This National Nurses Week, I want to reflect on this role, and just how critical our nurses are in delivering this most fundamental of services.

DC Young Trade Unionists Offer Scholarship for Course on Women in the Labor Movement

Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

The DC Young Trade Unionists are offering a scholarship for a young woman interested in attending the UALE Northeast Summer School for Union Women at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. The program aims to "strengthen their students' knowledge and understanding of the U.S. labor movement, and to develop skills that will prepare them to be more active members and leaders." If you know anyone interested in applying, or wish to apply yourself, please fill out the application form here.

From the Desk of the President: Quietly Making the Difference

Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

More so than any Pubic Service Recognition Week I can remember, federal employees are feeling uncertain about what the future holds. It seems like every week a new attack on their pay, benefits, or jobs emerges from the media and Capitol Hill, casting a dark shadow over their work lives. In this toxic environment anxiety, disillusion, and uncertainty - or some combination of the three - should logically rule the day. But oddly enough, I have sensed a strong sense of optimism among our...

Proposed Bill Would Boost Automatic TSP Contributions to 5% for New Hires

Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

According to a recent article in the Federal Times, Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-HI) plans to introduce a bill increasing the Thrift Savings Plan's (TSP) automatic employee enrollment contribution rate from 3% to 5% for new hires. The increased contribution would automatically be invested into the G Fund upon hiring. Phased in over three years, the draft proposal is directed toward the scores of federal workers who deposit too little into their TSP's to receive the government's full matching...

Deadline Fast Approaching for 2012 IAM Newsletter and Website Contest; Enter Your Publication Today!

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Don't forget that the deadline for the 2012 IAM Newsletter & Website Contest is rapidly approaching. All submissions must be received by the IAM Communications Department by Friday, May 11, 2012. The contest is open to all local and district lodges in good standing having publications that are regularly distributed or mailed to members and/or maintain regularly-updated IAM websites. This contest will consider newsletters published between April 2011 and April 2012 and websites operating...

Government Gives Top Contractor Bosses $30,000 Raise in 2011; Sets Reimbursement Cap at $723,029

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

At a time when pay is frozen, retirement benefits are being trimmed, and massive job cuts are on the table, this story is certain to make every federal employee across America jump out of their seat. The Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) recently announced that reimbursement rates for top executives at government contractors has been raised from $693,951 for 2010 to $723,029 for 2011. Though both President Obama and OFPP acting-Administrator Lesley Field have called for dramatically...

Congratulations to Morgan Huffman on Winning an IAMAW Scholarship!

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE is proud to announce that Morgan Huffman, son of NFFE Local 1861 Herbert Huffman, was chosen as a winner of this year's IAMAW Scholarship competition! The Executive Council of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) have selected Ms. Huffman out of a pool 402 applicants from the United States and Canada. The scholarship includes $2,000 per year, until the requirements of a vocational technical certification have been met.

Senate Votes to Slash Federal Workers' Compensation Program

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

The Senate Tuesday rejected an amendment to the Postal Reform Bill that would have protected the federal employees' workers compensation program. Failing by a vote of 46-53, Sen. Daniel Akaka's (D-HI) Amendment 2034 sought to remove harmful language scaling back workers compensation benefits from the larger bill. With this defeat, federal employees injured on the job are likely to lose a substantial portion of their benefit in the near future.

House Committee Approves Measure Permitting Semi-Retirement; Allows Employees to Roll Excess Leave into TSP

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform last week approved a bill, H.R. 4363, that would give federal workers approaching retirement the option to work part time before ending their career. An amendment to the measure would also allow for federal retirees to roll the value of their unused annual leave into their TSP accounts upon retirement. The bipartisan measure would make substantial progress in addressing one of the most serious issues facing the government: workforce brain...

Federal Retirement Critics Eat Crow as OPM Report Finds FERS Running Massive Surplus

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Many federal employee critics are quick to suggest that federal retirement benefits are bloated, overly generous, and unnecessary. Others are calling for their immediate repeal, and instead replacing them with defined contribution 401(k) plans. On Monday, however, the anti-federal retirement crowd received a rude awakening. According to a recent report by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) was not only fully funded - it was running a $12.2...

Senate Budget Chairman Introduces Budget Proposal Including Deep Federal Workforce Cuts

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

In an unexpected move Tuesday, Senate Budget Committee Chairman Kent Conrad (D-ND) reintroduced the Simpson-Bowles Plan as his committee's budget resolution, rather than creating a new budget framework, as expected. Though the chairman himself has admitted the proposal is dead on arrival, he is reported to have reintroduced it to make a statement about extreme partisan polarization in Washington. Statement or no statement, there are some serious provisions in this measure targeting federal...

NFFE Forest Service Council Holds Training for Local Officers, Stewards in Wisconsin

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Twenty-seven NFFE Forest Service Council (FSC) officers and stewards met in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, April 10-12 for basic training in labor relations. A blend of new stewards and officers, in addition to a few, let's say "seasoned" veterans, provided a great mix of energy and experience. Attendees came from Regions 3, 6, 9, and 10. Trainers Machelle Lang Melissa Baumann, and John Obst kept the attendees on their toes with intensive lectures and exercises.

Get the Latest NFFE News and Updates on Our New Twitter Page: @NFFE_Union!

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

The NFFE National Office is proud to announce that the union is taking its fight for federal worker rights to a new frontier on the web: Twitter. For those of you who are not familiar, Twitter is a social media site where users can connect with one another and share thoughts, stories, news, and other content quickly and easily. Our vision for this new communication medium is to bring our members a faster, more candid look at what the National Office and other members are doing for federal...

National President Dougan Talks Federal Jobs, Pay with News Channel 8's Capital Insider

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Wednesday, NFFE National President William R. Dougan joined Washington, D.C. News Channel 8's Morris Jones to discuss House Republican Budget Chairman Paul Ryan's FY 2013 budget proposal. As NFFE reported last week, the Ryan budget proposes $368 billion in federal workforce cuts by freezing pay another three years, cutting 200,000 jobs, and increasing the amount employees contribute toward their pensions. Click here to watch President Dougan take on the Ryan Budget.

60 Minutes Investigates Devastating Impact of Federal Job Cuts on Florida Community; Could Your Community Be Next?

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

This week, 60 Minutes correspondent Scott Pelley investigated the impact of closing NASA's space shuttle program on the citizens of Brevard County Florida - home of the Kennedy Space Center. Over several months of reporting, his findings were nothing short of devastating. Thousands of federal workers, from crane operators to engineers and safety specialists, lost their livelihoods when the time-honored program was shuttered. More devastating, however, has been the ripple effect throughout the...

FEEA Stands Ready to Help Victims of Texas Tornadoes

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

(A Message from FEEA) This week's tornadoes devastated communities across North Texas and the forecast across much of the Midwest leaves the possibility of more severe storms in the coming days. FEEA reminds federal employees that disaster grants and no-interest emergency loans are available. If you are affected by flooding or tornadoes and need help, please go to our Emergency Assistance page and use the links to download an application. If you would like to help feds affected by natural...

NFFE-IAM Members Save Big with Union Plus; Find Out How You Can Start Saving Today!

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Did you know that as a NFFE-IAM member you have access to exclusive discounts on everything from auto insurance, to cell phone service, and family vacations? In fact, you have access to all of this and much, much more through Union Plus. Union Plus was created by the AFL-CIO to provide union members and their families with valuable consumer benefits. With Union Plus benefits, your union membership pays at work and at home. By using the collective buying power of unions, Union Plus is able to...

House Passes GOP Budget Resolution Targeting Federal Pay, Jobs, and Retirement

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Thursday the House of Representative voted to approve an FY13 budget proposal containing a number of anti-federal worker provisions targeting pay, benefits, and jobs. The budget resolution, introduced the Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI), passed by a mostly party-line vote of 228-191. As a resolution, the bill itself lacks the force of law, but nonetheless serves as an outline for Congress to use when making their budget appropriation decisions over the next several months. Included...

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CDT

This year's first edition of the National Federation of Federal Employees' (NFFE) quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available! Featuring an in-depth look at Congress' recent decision to cut $15 billion from federal pensions, NFFE examines other threats looming about your retirement security. Here is what's inside.

Interested in Starting a Newsletter at Your Local? Here's Your How-To Guide!

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Newsletters are one of the most important communications tools a local union representative has in their toolbox. Local newsletters keep members and nonmembers informed of the union's benefits, activities, and accomplishments. They substantially improve local visibility in the facility, making it easier to recruit new members and get current members more engaged. Most importantly, you don't have to be a local leader to contribute - it is a family project. You can write about important issues...

Reminder: 2012 IAM Legislative Conference Just Around the Corner

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Don't forget that the 2012 IAM Legislative Conference is just around the corner. The annual conference will be held from Monday, May 14 until its adjournment at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 17 at the Hyatt Regency Washington, in Washington, DC. If your local is sending a delegate to this year's Legislative Conference, don't forget to complete the delegate questionnaire form, found here. Delegate registration will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on Monday, May 14 and from 8:00 a.m....

NFFE Members Join 40,000 in March on Wisconsin Statehouse on First Anniversary of 2011 Madison Labor Demonstration

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CDT

"We're baaaack!" shouted Phil Neuenfeldt, President of the Wisconsin AFL-CIO, as he welcomed Union activists and supporters to the Capitol square in Madison on March 10th. Over 40,000 protesters marched on the anniversary of last year's massive demonstrations objecting to Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and Republican legislators stripping collective bargaining rights from public employees. But truth be told, the protesters never left. While the daily demonstrations were smaller, the real...

Roberts Amendment to Extend Federal Pay Freeze Fails in Senate Vote

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CDT

Tuesday, the Senate blocked an amendment to extend the federal pay freeze through 2013, prompting many in the federal workforce community to breathe a sigh of relief. The amendment, introduced by Senator Pat Roberts (R-KS), was defeated soundly by a vote of 41 for and 57 against, leaving the measure far short of the 60 votes necessary to survive. As NFFE reported yesterday, Roberts attempted to attach the pay freeze amendment to the massive Surface Transportation Bill, which is a must-pass...

Here We Go Again: Republican Senator Introduces Amendment to Extend Pay Freeze Through 2013

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CDT

The latest chapter in the ongoing negotiations over the Senate Surface Transportation Bill has opened, and the story being told is one that we've heard time and time again. Late last week, Senator Pat Roberts (R-KS) introduced an amendment to the massive piece of legislation extending the federal pay freeze for an additional year. According to a recent article from Government Executive Magazine, the money saved by freezing your pay would be used to pay for oil and gas exploration, among other...

Show Your Union Pride; Visit the NFFE Online Store!

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE's online store provides a huge selection of custom NFFE promotional items for members. Stocked with everything from t-shirts and hoodies to coffee mugs and laptop cases, the NFFE store has everything you need to show your NFFE pride in the workplace and beyond. All of these items are 100% American-made, and the vast majority of items offered are union made. Members can access the online store at www.gdarter.com/nffe, or simply go to the NFFE website and click the button on the main page...

Amendment "Easing Workers into Retirement" Approved in Senate

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CST

Thursday, the Senate passed an amendment to allow federal workers nearing retirement to move to part-time schedules as their retirement date nears. The proposal allows employees to continue their normal jobs (with reduced hours) in addition to mentoring younger employees as they prepare to take over upon their retirement. Affected workers would be eligible to receive a partial annuity as well as credit toward their retirement working in the new role. This new policy could provide a great...

Reminder: 2012 IAM Legislative Conference Just Around the Corner

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CST

NFFE Announces Monthly Recruitment Awards for February 2012

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 CST

NFFE's monthly recruitment awards honor the hard work and dedication of locals that demonstrate exceptional performance in recruiting new members. Winners will receive a certificate commemorating their achievement. To learn more about what your local can do to improve its recruitment efforts, contact your national organizing coordinator using the map below, or visit the Organizers Toolkit inside the NFFE Toolbox. This month's winners are...

Progress Continues on Extension of Benefits to Same-Sex Partners of Federal Employees

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

Over the course of the past several years, the Obama Administration and Office of Personnel Management have been working toward the goal of benefit equality for same-sex partners of federal employees. In a recent Washington Post piece, columnist Joe Davidson details some of the many measures being taken today to help level the playing field for all federal employees and their loved ones. He specifically lists five proposed regulations which are expected to be finalized by the end of 2012.

Congress Agrees to Hike Employee Pension Costs: What this Means for Your Paycheck

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

Last week, both House and Senate lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to increase the amount that federal employees contribute toward their FERS pension as part of a deal to extend the popular payroll tax cut. Though the deal impacts just recent and new hires, the possibility of all federal employees seeing their contributions increase remains a clear and present danger. Under the payroll tax deal, which is expected to be signed by the President this week, federal workers with five years of...

Son of NFFE Member Tim Jones Seriously Wounded On Duty in Afghanistan; Please Consider Donating to Family's Assistance Fund

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

Tim Jones, NFFE member and Army retiree on the Sawtooth National Forest, learned that his 21 year old son, Terence "Bo" Lonnie Jones, was severely injured in the line of duty while on a foot patrol in Southern Afghanistan, losing both of his legs as well as sustaining injuries to his left arm and torso. He's in stable condition and has been transferred to a hospital in Germany. Bo is being worked on by the doctors in Germany. He developed an infection from his wounds, but the doctors have...

National President Dougan Pens Letter to House Opposing Bill with Serious Implications for Federal Retirement Benefits

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

On behalf of the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE) and the 110,000 federal employees our union represents throughout the United States and abroad, I am writing to strongly oppose H.R. 3813, a bill that would require massive increases in contributions to pensions for current and future federal employees. At the same time, this bill would drastically reduce retirement benefits for current and future federal workers. This bill would make federal employees pay substantially more...

Five Locals Win Free Trips to Washington, D.C. for Legislative Conference as NFFE Announces 2011 Recruitment Awards

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

The NFFE National Organizing Department is proud to announce the winners of the 2011 NFFE Recruitment Awards, an annual competition honoring our union's most dedicated recruiters. Locals are selected for awards in two categories: most new members recruited (as indicated by total 1187's submitted), and highest member density increase. The winners of this year's contest will receive paid flight and hotel accommodations for a delegate to join us for the annual IAM Legislative Conference in...

49th NFFE National Convention Call Officially Released

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

This week, National Secretary-Treasurer William D. Fenaughty officially released the 49th NFFE National Convention Call, requesting that delegates join us to convene in Portland, Oregon this fall. Mailed to every NFFE local on February 13, 2012, the convention call packet should arrive at your workplace shortly. Included in the packet are credentials instructions, amendment and resolution forms, instructions for submitting amendments and resolutions, national elections rules, and the official...

NFFE Civilian Conservation Corps Leaders Meet With Congress, White House, on Future of Job Corps Centers

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

Larry E. King, NFFE Forest Service Council Job Corps Vice President (CVP), and Lance A. Hamann, Local 1840 President, were in attendance at the National Job Corps Association (NJCA) annual legislative meeting held in Washington D.C. last week. NFFE is currently planning an ongoing organized response, based on the information provided by the NJCA, to address the mandated budget cuts of $130 million, which would result in the closing up to 10 Job Corps Centers. Your union is planning an active...

Attention FEEA Emergency Grant Recipients: FEEA Wants to Hear Your Story Today!

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

grant from the Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund (FEEA) in the past three years? FEEA is looking for recent emergency assistance recipients to share their first-hand accounts of how a little help can make a big difference for feds in need. Help others get the help they need by sharing your story! Contact FEEA at tellmystory@feea.org or 202-554-0007 for more information.

House Committee Votes to Triple Pension Contributions for Current Employees; Slash Benefits for New Hires

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform voted this week to advance a bill that would mandate FERS and CSRS employees increase their pension contributions and create a new federal retirement tier with even less affordable benefits. H.R. 3813 - also known as the "Securing Annuities for Federal Employees Act - was introduced by Republican lawmaker Dennis Ross of Florida, who chairs a house subcommittee that handles legislation impacting the federal workforce. Under the...

NFFE attends the National Job Corps Association

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

Larry E. King, Council Vice President, and Lance A. Hamann, Local #1840 President, was in attendance at the National Job Corps Association (NJCA) annual legislative meeting held in Washington D.C. Your union is currently planning an ongoing organized response, based on the information provided by the NJCA, to address the mandated budget cuts of $130 million which would result in the closing up to 10 Job Corps Centers. Your union is planning an active lobby effort and will need every...

REMINDER: 2012 IAM Scholarship Deadline is Fast Approaching

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

The deadline for the 2012 IAM Scholarship Program's application is approaching fast, and all NFFE-IAM members and families are encouraged to apply. All applications must be received by February 24, 2012. There are three different scholarship applications, one for each scholarship: the IAM Child of a Member applying for College scholarship; IAM Child of a Member applying for Vocational/Technical School Scholarship; and the IAM Member applying for College scholarship. Applications and...

National President Dougan Talks Federal Retirement Cuts with Federal News Radio

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

National President Dougan joined In Depth with Francis Rose on Federal News Radio earlier this week to discuss the serious retirement cuts being considered in Congress this week. Among the cuts proposed in the bill (H.R. 3813) are a 1.5% increase in the amount current employees pay toward their pensions, in addition to the creation of a new tier of the federal retirement system for new hires called "Secure Annuity Employees," who would receive 36% less benefits than employees enrolled in...

National President Dougan Pens Letter to House Committee Urging Opposition to Federal Retirement Cuts

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

Tuesday afternoon, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, a committee that writes laws governing the federal workforce, will consider a bill (H.R. 3813) with a serious impact on your retirement security. In response to this attack of your retirement benefits, NFFE National President William R. Dougan wrote the following letter.

SURVEY: NFFE's Young Federal Leaders Program Wants to Hear from You!

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

At a time when resources are tight, workplaces are shrinking, and hundreds of thousands of federal employees are nearing retirement, it is important that young federal employees step up to the plate and take on leadership roles in their union. With NFFE's emerging Young Federal Leaders (YFL) program, young union members are given the opportunity to do just that. Before the YFL program gets underway, however, we want to hear from all NFFE members - young and old. Please take two minutes out of...

Congress Targets Your Wallet Once Again with New Bills Freezing Step Increases; Reducing Workforce

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

Two new bills targeting your pay and jobs were introduced last week, adding more measures to the litany of anti-federal worker bills already under consideration in Congress. As you recall, lawmakers voted to extend the federal pay freeze through 2013 on February 1st, sending the bill over to the Senate for their approval. The new measures, however, take an even more draconian approach to slashing federal compensation. On Tuesday, Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL) introduced a bill to freeze federal...

National President Dougan Talks Pay Freeze Extension with NBC 4 News, Washington, DC

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

Last night NFFE National President William R. Dougan joined NBC Channel 4 News here in Washington, DC to discuss this week's House vote to extend the federal pay freeze. Watch as he joins reporter Erika Gonzalez to discuss the impact of a potential freeze on federal workers all across America. Click here to see National President Dougan's interview.

Enroll Now for Federal Employees Programs at the IAM's Winpisinger Education and Technology Center

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

The IAM Government Employees Department is conducting two programs in the first half of 2012 at the William W. Winpisinger Education & Technology Center in Southern Maryland, and the enrollment deadline for both classes is approaching. First up is the "Federal Employees Collective Bargaining Program" scheduled for March 25-30, 2012. Second is the "Federal Employees Basic Program" being held May 6-11, 2012. For more information and to download the call letter and registration form for the...

ACTION ALERT: Tell Congress to Say NO to a Pay Freeze Extension Tonight

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 CST

Once again, Washington politicians are trying to reach into your wallet to pay for their mistakes. Tonight, February 1st, 2012, the House of Representatives will vote on H.R. 3835, a bill to extend the current pay freeze by another year. We need you to become a part of the solution and stand up for federal workers! We are urging all federal employees to call Congress (on your own time, using your own phone) and tell them to protect the paycheck you have earned. Reach elected officials using...

House to Vote on One-Year Pay Freeze Extension This Week Using Questionable Legislative Maneuver

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

This Wednesday, the House of Representatives is expected to vote on H.R. 3835, a bill that would extend the two-year federal pay free by an additional year. Introduced by Rep. Sean Duffy (R-WI) late Friday afternoon, the bill may be considered on such an expedited schedule due to a legislative maneuver known as a "suspension of the rules" whereby proposed legislation can bypass the normal legislative process and bring a bill straight to a vote. Normally the bill would first be sent to...

Your Retirement: Congress Debates Future of Federal Pension Benefits at House Hearing

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

At a House Federal Workforce Subcommittee hearing Wednesday, Chairman Dennis Ross (R-FL) and Ranking Member Stephen Lynch (D-MA) were joined by a panel of experts to discuss the state of federal employee retirement benefits. Though no strong conclusions were reached, the debate focused sharply on federal pensions, and whether they should be cut back. The hearing began with an opening statement from Ross, who argued that federal benefits are excessive must align more closely with private...

Major Change Coming as NFFE Shifts to New Model of Unionism with 2012 Organizing and Recruiting Strategic Plan

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

This fall, NFFE leadership from throughout the country gathered at the IAM's Winpisinger Center to develop a new plan for the future of our union's organizing and recruitment efforts. By week's end however, NFFE left the Center with a commitment to fundamentally transform the way our union does business: the 2012 NFFE Organizing and Recruiting Strategic Plan. The change we are pursuing is to transform our thinking from a servicing model to a more effective organizing model. With forty percent...

What Have You Done for Me Lately?

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

"What Have You Done for Me Lately" is not just Janet Jackson's first hit song; it's a question that federal workers often ask their unions. For National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE) Local 178 officers and stewards, the question is an easy one to answer. The real challenge would be describing it all succinctly. While a summary hardly does the Local's accomplishments justice, one is attempted here. Here's a quick overview of some of Local 178's accomplishments and activities in 2011:

SURVEY: NFFE Considering Retiree Program; Give Us Your Feedback!

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

NFFE is considering the formation of a NFFE retirees program, and we would like to hear from you whether there is interest in this concept. A NFFE retiree program would be good thing for this union because many retired NFFE members want to remain connected with the union, but currently don't have a program that keeps them as engaged as they would like to be. In fact, numerous retirees have contacted NFFE National in the last year inquiring about a retiree program in which they wish to...

Celebrating 50 Years of Collective Bargaining in the Federal Government

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

In recognition of the 50th anniversary of President Kennedy's signing of an Executive Order extending collective bargaining rights to federal employees, NFFE National President William R. Dougan issued the following statement: "Recognizing the 50th anniversary of President Kennedy's Executive Order is a powerful moment for us in labor and indeed all federal employees who seek fairness and dignity in the workplace. To think that many federal employees proudly serving our nation today had once...

Reconnect with Your Community with the New Service Toolkit!

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

The labor movement has a long and proud tradition of community service. Well before we won a seat at the negotiation table, unions made it a priority to care for their sick and wounded, provide for the families of injured workers, and establish vibrant communities. Each day unionists continue to express these sentiments of solidarity, not only in the workplace, but in their communities by donating their time and resources to strengthen their neighborhoods, cities, and states. To help you...

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

Last year's fourth edition of NFFE's quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available! Featuring a review of NFFE's fundamental shift in recruitment strategy, this issue looks into the possibilities presented by this whole new way of doing business. Click here to see what's inside.

Applications for 2012 Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarships Now Available. Submit Yours Today!

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

NFFE is proud to announce that applications for the 2012 Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarship competition are now available! Applicants for the scholarship must be a NFFE-IAM member in good standing or a spouse or child of a member in good standing. Dependant applicants should be full-time students, while employee applicants may be part-time students. Applicants must submit a completed application package postmarked no later than March 30, 2012. Submitting an application will also...

What is the Pay Freeze Costing You? Use This Handy Calculator to Find Out!

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

Have you ever wondered how much the two-year federal pay freeze will cost you a year, ten years, or twenty years down the line? Concerned about what you would lose were Congress to succeed in freezing pay for another year? Thanks to our brothers and sisters at the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), those answers can be yours in the blink of an eye! Use this handy calculator to determine the impact a 2-3 year federal pay freeze will have on your pocketbook.

Dougan Joins President Obama in Oval Office for 'Flags for Feds' Bill Signing

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

Just before federal workers headed home for the holidays, National President Dougan joined President Barack Obama in the oval office on December 20th to deliver one final parting gift. That gift was the official presidential signing of the Civil Service Recognition Act, a bill authorizing federal agencies to place a flag on the coffins of federal workers killed in the line of duty. Introduced by Rep. Richard Hanna (R-NY), the Act is intended to honor the sacrifice made by federal employees...

IAM Announces Opening of 2012 Newsletter and Website Contest; Enter Your Publication Today!

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

This is the official announcement of the 2012 IAM Newsletter & Website Contest. It is open to all local and district lodges in good standing having publications that are regularly distributed or mailed to members and/or maintain regularly-updated IAM websites. This contest will consider newsletters published between April 2011 and April 2012 and websites operating online during the judging period. Enclosed are the Official Entry Forms and Contest Rules. The deadline to submit entries is...

IAM Announces 2012 Photography Contest; Submit Your Photos Today!

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

This is the official announcement of the 2012 IAM Photography Contest. It is open to all IAM members in good standing. Entries should catch IAM members at work in unposed photos. Winning entries will win a cash prize and will appear in the 2013 IAM Calendar. Two dollars from each calendar sale is donated to Guide Dogs of America. There is no fee for participating in the contest, and the deadline for entries is May 11, 2012. Winners will be announced in the fall of 2012.

IAM Announces Dates for 2012 Basic Newsletter Development Class

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 CST

This is the Official Call for the 2012 Basic Newsletter Development course at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center at Placid Harbor in Hollywood, Maryland. The class will be held March 18-23, and is the only Basic Newsletter Development course scheduled for 2012. The Basic Newsletter Development course teaches new editors how to start and publish a newsletter. It covers selecting subjects for stories, conducting interviews, writing and editing, headlines, and effective...

Congress Reaches Funding Agreement to Avoid Shutdown; Pay Freeze and Retirement Cuts Still in Limbo as Politicians Debate Payroll Tax Cut Extension

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CST

Federal workers can breathe a sigh of relief because Congress was able to reach a tentative agreement to fund the government. The outlines of the agreement are still murky, but sources suggest that the measure will fund three-quarters of federal agencies through September of next year. Though federal employees dodged a bullet when Congress prevented a shutdown, there is still the matter of extending the payroll tax cut, a measure that has become a political lightning rod in the federal...

House Passes Republican Bill Freezing Federal Pay, Slashing Retirement; Obama Promises Veto

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CST

Tuesday the House passed a Republican bill, H.R. 3630, which included a one-year pay freeze extension and major cuts to federal retirement benefits. The bill passed along a mostly party line vote of 234-193. Shortly before its passage, President Obama issued a Statement of Administration Policy pledging to veto the bill if it ever made it to his desk. The bill would extend the current pay freeze to three years, rendering pay levels for federal workers and members of Congress flat through...

ACTION ALERT: Tell Congress You Are Not a Political Bargaining Chip!

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CST

Here we go again. Washington politicians are trying to play politics with federal workers over extending the payroll tax cut. As you read this they are considering a pay freeze extension, cuts to your retirement plan, and the elimination of hundreds of thousands of federal jobs. Congress needs to hear that we are not a political bargaining chip. We are urging all federal employees to call Congress (as a constituent, on your own time, using your own phone) and tell them to protect the jobs and...

NFFE Joins Twenty-Five Federal Organizations in Letter Opposing Pay Freeze Extension, Staff Reductions

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CST

Yesterday, NFFE and 25 other organizations representing federal workers and managers came together to send a letter to Capitol Hill urging elected officials to take pay freeze extensions and workforce reductions off the negotiating table. The letter - mailed to both party leaders in the House of Representatives - comes at a critical point in the legislative calendar, as Congress is scheduled to leave for the holiday season in just over a week. Among other essential priorities, Congress must...

The Hill Op-Ed: GOP Effort to Freeze Federal Pay for Five Years Unfair by William R. Dougan

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CST

Some Republicans in the Senate are pushing a proposal to extend the current pay freeze for federal employees another three years, for a total of five consecutive years, to offset the cost of extending the payroll tax credit. While we agree that continuing this middle class tax cut is an absolute necessity, it is unthinkable that federal workers would be singled out again to pay for it. Federal workers have already made significant sacrifices to help ease the burden of our national debt. We...

Bill to Freeze Federal Pay, Slash Workforce, Gets Soundly Defeated as Federal Unions Press Senate

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:00:00 CST

Wednesday evening, a flurry of activity in the federal labor community began as reports emerged that Republicans in the U.S. Senate would introduce a bill to pay for the extension of the payroll tax cut by freezing federal pay and reducing the workforce. The following morning, that proposal, formally introduced as S. 1931, came sharply into focus. The bill, introduced by freshman Republican Senator Dean Heller of Nevada, proposed funding the popular payroll tax cut extension with an addition...

President Obama Reauthorizes Labor Management Partnership Executive Order

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CST

Federal workers and managers had much to give thanks for this holiday as President Obama announced Wednesday his reauthorization of a 2010 executive order calling for labor-management partnerships throughout the government. The President announced that the labor-management partnership order would be extended through September of 2013, at which time it will need to be reauthorized to continue its work. "We are pleased that the President has chosen to extend this invaluable forum for federal...

Broken Government: Super Committee Fails to Reach a Deal on Reducing Deficits, Major Fallout for Federal Workers Expected

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CST

Yesterday the Congressional Super Committee, a bipartisan group of 12 legislators tasked with finding $1.2 trillion in spending reductions by November 23rd, officially threw in the towel. You heard that correctly - two days before their deadline was reached they decided that burning the midnight oil to reach a deal was just too much work. The results of their decision - or rather, the lack thereof - will have serious consequences for federal employees in the coming years. Without a deal to...

NFFE Recognized With Ten Awards in 2011 IAM Newsletter and Website Contest

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CST

Yesterday, the IAM announced the winners of the 2011 Newsletter and Website Contest, an annual competition that recognizes excellence in print and digital union publications. Building on the past two years' stellar performances, NFFE locals and the national office again came out strong, winning a record total of ten awards across every category. In the district websites category, the NFFE National Office won first place in both General Excellence and Best Layout and Design for its website,...

A Veteran's Day Message From the Desk of the President

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CST

Veterans Day is a day of remembrance to honor America's veterans, living and dead, for their sacrifice in serving our country. We remember and honor those who stepped up when circumstances demanded and answered the call to defend our country and protect the rights and privileges we all continue to enjoy. Last year I told you about the son of one of my high school classmates and how he had been horribly injured by an IED as he led his Marine Corps platoon on patrol in Afghanistan.

FEEA by the Numbers: Feds Helping Feds in Need

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CST

Did you know that half of all pledges to FEEA CFC #11185 stay where they're donated? The Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund depends on CFC pledges to fund the majority of its annual scholarship program and makes sure at least 50% of the money donated in each of FEEA's 27 regions stays in the region to provide scholarships. Thanks to those pledges to CFC #11185, FEEA awarded more than $450,000 in scholarships to 420 students across the country this year. Winners were chosen for...

Key House Committee Passes Measure to Cut Federal Jobs by 10% Over Three Years

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT

As the holiday the season draws nearer, it looks like there will be little to be cheerful about for federal employees watching Congress. On Thursday, the House Committee on Oversight and Government reform approved H.R. 3029, a bill that would reduce the federal workforce by 200,000 jobs by 2015. It would do so by replacing one federal employee for every three who retire, separate, or otherwise depart from the government. Bah humbug is right.

National President Dougan Writes Letter to House Committee Opposing "Critical Blow" of Proposed Federal Job Cuts

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT

This morning NFFE National President William R. Dougan wrote a letter to the members of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform urging them to oppose a measure they will be considering today, which would slash 200,000 federal jobs by 2015. Introduced by South Carolina Republican Mick Mulvaney, the bill (H.R. 3029) would mandate a 10% across-the-board cut to the federal workforce, permitting only one federal worker to be hired for every three who retire, separate, or otherwise...

Cut-Off Dates Near for Federal Employees Classes at the Winpisinger Center

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 CDT

The IAM Government Employees Department is conducting two programs in January 2012 at the William W. Winpisinger Education & Technology Center in Southern Maryland, and the enrollment deadline for both classes is approaching. First up is the "Federal Employees Basic Program" being held Jan. 15-20. Then, from Jan. 29 to Feb. 3, the "Federal Employees Advanced Program" will be held. To be considered for either of these classes, participant registration forms must be completed and returned...

NFFE Local 2109 Claims First Place in 2011 IAM Photo Contest

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE is proud to congratulate the members of NFFE Local 2109 at the Watervliet Arsenal in Watervliet, NY, who came in First Place with their submission to the annual IAM Photo Competition. The winning photo was taken by long-time Local 2109 member and arsenal employee William Martin. Featuring fellow NFFE-IAM member Kathleen Seeloff, the photo was one of hundreds submitted by NFFE-IAM members from locals throughout the country. The photo shows Seeloff conducting a quality control inspection...

IAM Announces 2012 Communications Trainings at the Winpisinger Center

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

This week the IAM officially announced a number of exciting communications trainings for union members. Hosted at the William W. Winpisinger Education & Technology Center in Hollywood, MD, the IAM will host four separate trainings for over a hundred NFFE-IAM members throughout the new year. The classes will cover diverse subjects such as basic newsletter and website development, advanced website development, and how to become an effective Local communicator.

NFFE NVP Timothy Ostrowski Joins Rep. Paul Tonko to Put an End to Wasteful Spending on Overpaid Contractor Executives

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, NFFE National Vice President Timothy Ostrowski joined House Representative Paul Tonko (D-NY) at a press conference in Troy, NY announcing the Congressman's support for the Stop Excessive Payments to Government Contractors Act of 2011, H.R. 2090, a bill that would lower the cap on federal contractor executive salary reimbursements from $700,000 to $200,000. Tonko unveiled the bill in his home district in an effort to highlight how community programs are being asked to sacrifice...

New NFFE-IAM Federal Workers Video Now Available Online; Watch it Here!

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE is proud to announce the online debut of the IAM's latest federal employees video. Featuring NFFE-IAM members from San Francisco to New York and everywhere in between, the video shines a much-deserved spotlight on the invaluable contributions that federal employees make to our nation's safety and prosperity every day.

Federal Retirees to See First COLA Increase in Two Years

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

For the first time in two years, our nation's 1.9 million retired civil service employees will receive a cost of living adjustment. Consistent with the release of September's Consumer Price Index figures, most federal retirees will receive a COLA of 3.6%. After two years of deflationary pressure resulting from the recession, CSRS and FERS annuitants will see their first COLA adjustment since 2009. CSRS annuitants, who make up roughly 80% of the civil service retiree community, will receive...

Union Leadership Gathers at Winpisinger Center to Review Organizing Strategic Plan; Plot New Direction for NFFE (Photos)

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, leaders from throughout NFFE gathered at the IAM's William W. Winpisinger Center in Placid Harbor, MD, to discuss the possibility of fundamental change to our Union's organizing and recruiting strategy. The timing for a revised organizing strategic plan could not be better: Today Locals must sign up three new members to net just one; retirements are taking a huge toll on union membership throughout the federal sector. Our Union must continually recruit new members to survive and...

Congressional Democrats Rally to Defend Besieged Federal Workers; Independent Senator Targets Pay, Retirement

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

As House Republicans issued a letter calling for massive reductions in federal pay, benefits, and workforce size last week, Congressional Democrats sent a letter of their own calling for "super committee" members to defend federal workers from the irresponsible cuts. The first to speak up was Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-MD), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. In an October 12 letter to the super committee, Cummings called for the exclusion of any cuts...

House Republicans Tell Super Committee to Slash $375 Billion in Federal Worker Pay and Benefits, Jobs

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

In a letter to the congressional "super committee" last week, House Committee on Oversight and Government Darrell Issa (R-CA) laid out a long list of proposals targeting federal workers for huge cuts to their jobs, pay, and benefits. The recommendations, which read like a 'greatest hits' album of anti-federal worker legislation, calls for huge cuts to federal retirement plans including a transition to a "high 5" pension calculation, a 6.2% increase in employee contributions to their FERS...

Health Premiums for Federal Employees to Increase 3.8% in 2012

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) announced last week that federal workers' health care premiums will increase by 3.8 percent next year. The increase will cost employees an additional $4.25 per pay period on average, or $110.50 in total new payments per year. For federal employees entering the second year of a two-year pay freeze, the increasing cost of health insurance is putting a great deal of downward pressure on their families' bottom lines.

An Urgent Message on Protecting American Jobs

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

You don't hear from me often. I spend most of my time on Capitol Hill, meeting with members of Congress, making the voices of working people heard in front of lawmakers and educating them about what's important. But today, I have a really important favor to ask of you. It will take about three minutes: I need you to pick up the phone and call 1-800-718-1008 right now to stop three unfair trade deals.

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

This year's third edition of NFFE's quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available! Featuring a review of the latest budget pressures to hit federal agencies, this issue looks into the policies driving the federal workforce's very uncertain future. Click here to see what's inside.

Survey Shows Government Contractor Bosses Make 70 Percent More than Federal Executives

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 00:00:00 CDT

On the heels of a recent report that found that government contractors cost taxpayers nearly double the amount of federal workers, a new survey has found a big part of the reason for this gap: Contractor executive pay. According to a survey by the Human Resource Association of the National Capital area, government contractor executives are paid 70 percent more than their counterparts in agency leadership. This means that every time the government hires a contractor to do a job, the taxpayers...

White House Calls for End to Gross Overcompensation of Government Contractor Executives

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT

In Washington these days there have been hundreds of proposals put forward to reduce the growing national debt, many of which target large cuts to the federal workforce. The politicians who introduce them claim that they are tackling government waste and inefficiency. Most of the time, however, they are just tackling their political opponents across the aisle, and leaving the welfare of the American people on the sidelines. One mostly overlooked proposal, however, could make serious progress...

White House Proposal Would Increase Employee Pension Contributions by 150 Percent

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT

As part of its comprehensive plan to reduce the federal budget issued yesterday, the White House proposed to increase federal employees' pension contributions. The proposal seeks to increase worker-financed contributions by 150 percent over the next three years. This change would cost federal workers tens of thousands of dollars over the span of their careers. Furthermore, the proposed increase in employee contributions will not result in a corresponding increase in pension benefits, meaning...

Apply Now for Over a Hundred Union Plus Scholarships!

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT

For over 15 years, Union Plus has awarded more than $3 million in scholarships to help union families pay for college. Scholarships range from $500 to $4,000. Now you or your student can complete and submit a 2012 Union Plus scholarship application entirely online. In 2010, 130 union members and their family members received $150,000 in scholarships, ranging from $500 to $4,000. View the list of 2011 scholarship winners here.

Independent Study Shows Reckless Privatization of Federal Jobs is a Raw Deal for Taxpayers

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT

A comprehensive study released this week confirmed what many federal workers throughout government have known for a long time: federal employees almost always deliver a better value to taxpayers than service contractors. The report was published by the Project on Government Oversight (POGO), an independent, non-partisan think tank that conducts research on government waste, fraud and abuse. The costs of this reckless outsourcing have been staggering. The federal government now employs an...

Congress Gets Lavish Benefits While Advocating Deep Cuts to Federal Worker Retirement, Compensation

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT

It has been the subject of countless discussions online, in the media, and around the water coolers at federal workplaces throughout the nation: Do members of Congress get a better deal than federal employees? Well today, we have an answer to that question, and that answer is yes. According to a very well done article by Stephen Losey at the Federal Times, members of Congress not only receive better benefits, but they get them faster and often cheaper than their counterparts in the...

Mark Your Calendars for NFFE's 49th National Convention

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT

With only one short year remaining until the 49th National Convention of the National Federation of Federal Employees, it is time for NFFE Locals to start making preliminary plans to attend. The next convention will be held from October 1-4, 2012 at the Benson Hotel in Portland, Oregon. This beautiful, Union property, is within easy walking distance of many restaurants, theaters, and tourist attractions. It is also conveniently located near Portland's light rail and streetcar systems, and...

FEEA Offers Assistance to Feds Impacted by Irene and FAA Furloughs; Now it's Our Turn to Give Back

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 00:00:00 CDT

The first half of 2011 has been busy for the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund. After severe spring weather impacted federal employees throughout much of the southern U.S., FEEA gave more than 40 grants worth over $22,000 in April and May. Need did not abate in June or July, and August saw 4,000 FAA employees back at work after furloughs but facing half-pay for a full month. By late August, FEEA had helped 36 FAA employees with loans totaling more than $28,000. But those 36...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Updated New Member and Recruitment Kits Now Available

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE National is proud to announce the new and enhanced new member and recruitment kits. These kits have been created to facilitate your efforts in recruiting and welcoming new members into our union. The kits provide information about the benefits of becoming a new member, as well as trinkets that give new members the ability to show their union pride. Showing your union pride is an important part of spreading the word about the union. When you are wearing a lanyard, lapel pin, button, or...

White House Budget Office Issues Memo Requesting Agency Budget Reductions of 5-10% for FY 2013

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

With Congress and the Administration reaching a deal to raise the debt ceiling earlier this month, the job of implementing the trillions in spending reductions appears to be well underway. In a memorandum issued to the heads of all federal departments and agencies last week, Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Jacob Lew called for federal leadership to trim their budget request by as much as ten percent for their fiscal year 2013 budget requests. Citing the recent debt-limit...

National President Dougan Heads West to Visit Indian Health Service, Forest Service Locals

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

National President Dougan and National Business Representative Steve Flory hit the road last week, visiting seven Locals in five days in the Northwest, Rocky Mountains and Northern Great Plains. Meeting with both Forest Service and Indian Health Service (IHS) Locals, their mission to was to engage employees on the ground and discover what the union could do to make a better workplace. Throughout the trip, the duo attended lunch meetings with members, sat in on a monthly membership meeting,...

Longtime Union Advocate Liz Pittaluga Named New National Business Representative; Service Areas Redrawn to Improve Representation

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE is very proud to welcome our newest National Business Representative, Elizabeth "Liz" Pittaluga. A longtime unionist and Machinist, Pittaluga brings decades of labor relations and federal workforce experience to the job of serving the NFFE membership. A machinist and later electronics technician by trade, Pittaluga's most recent role was Vice President of IAM Local Lodge 2783 at the Trident Refit Facility on the Naval Submarine Base in Kings Bay, GA. Over her 20-year career at the base,...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Following Through with New Members

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

While getting a new member to sign an 1187 form and officially become part of your Local is a big step, it's important to remember that your work doesn't stop there. Both from an administrative and a personal side, it is vital that you follow through on bringing your new members into the union. On the administrative end, you need to ensure that your 1187 forms are filled out correctly, completely and legibly, and that they have all of the necessary signatures. It's also important that you...

Meet Melissa Grenier and Shannon McNichols, Winners of the 2011 Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarships

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE would like to congratulate Melissa Grenier of Menands, NY and Shannon McNichols of Harrisville, MI on winning this year's Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarships! Each will receive $1,000 dollars toward furthering their collegiate education. The scholarships, named for late NFFE National President Richard N. Brown, are awarded once each year to qualified NFFE members or children of NFFE members.

Organizing Tip of the Week: Tools to Help You Help Your Local

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

As NFFE representatives, our duty is grow our Locals and provide them with the quality representation that our members expect of us. However, carrying out these essential union functions can often be a challenge. Official time is hard to come by, and even when we do get some, it never seems to be enough. Resources may be scare or a particular case may be outside of your area of expertise. To address these common problems, look no further than the NFFE Toolbox - your one-stop shop for all of...

Second Shoe Drops: Senators Propose Massive Federal Job Cuts, Salary Freezes, as Part of Debt-Ceiling Package

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

When Congress and the Administration came to an agreement to raise the federal debt limit earlier this month, both parties agreed to formulate a bipartisan committee to find $1.5 trillion in additional savings by year's end. The idea was to bring both parties together to hammer out a responsible, bipartisan compromise that everyone could rally around. This so-called 'super committee' would be made up of three Democrats and three Republicans from each house of Congress, consisting of 12...

FEEA Stands by FAA Employees with Emergency Assistance Loans

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

With 4,000 FAA employees furloughed and set to receive just half a paycheck next week, we want to be sure employees know FEEA is here to help. No-interest loans of up to $1,000 will be available as soon as a reduced or missing paycheck occurs. If you are among the furloughed employees, please visit our FAA Furloughs page for additional important information and a link to the emergency assistance application.

Take a Minute to Share Your Story on the 'I am a Federal Employee' Blog!

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Over the past several months, dozens of federal employees have shared their stories of public service with the new 'I am a Federal Employee Blog,' at www.iamafederalemployee.org. Everyone from DoD civilians, VA nurses, federal firefighters, and others have spoken out and told the world that they are proud of the work they do for America every day. But there are still many more stories to tell, and we want to hear yours today

Federal Employee Benefits Survey to Take Place this Summer

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

The Office of Personnel Management will be issuing the 2011 Federal Employee Benefits Survey (FEBS) this summer for the first time since 2006. Please see the letter below for details on the survey.

Let's Make a Deal: Congress, White House Reach Compromise to Raise Debt Limit, Avoid Default

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Sunday evening, President Barack Obama and Speaker of the House John Boehner announced that a deal had been reached to raise the federal debt limit and avoid a catastrophic default. The deal, long rumored to contain provisions impacting federal retirement and compensation, included no immediate cuts to federal employee pay or benefits. This does not mean that federal employees are out of the woods, however. Though the deal spares federal workers from immediate benefit reductions, the proposal...

Debt-Ceiling 101: The Federal Debt Limit and How it Impacts Your Job

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

In the past several weeks, there has been a great deal of chatter and speculation regarding the government hitting the federal debt limit. More recently, the focus has turned to the U.S. defaulting on its debt, as members of Congress refuse to come to a common sense agreement to raise the debt-ceiling and avoid a catastrophic default. This article is intended to answer some basic questions about what the debt-limit is, and how a potential default could impact your job and your family.

Local 1384 Volunteers Help Tornado Victims in Western Massachusetts

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Members of the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), Local 1384, at Hanscom recently gave up a vacation day to carpool to Springfield, Mass. Their mission was to volunteer at the Salvation Army center there, helping to distribute food and other items to those left homeless by the recent tornado. Earlier in June, a tornado swept a path of destruction from Springfield to Sturbridge. Tornados in Massachusetts are very rare, the last one hitting central sections of the state decades ago.

Local 1998 Members Give Back with Food Drive to Benefit Underprivileged Families

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Faced with relentless attacks on federal employees in the media and Congress, NFFE members from around the country are taking a pro-active approach to changing the public's perception of the labor movement by organizing community service projects. Earlier this month, stewards of Local 1998 at the Charleston Passport Office engaged agency to design a system for collecting food donations from all employees, members and non-members alike.

NFFE Launches Communicators' Toolkit; Find Out How You Can Improve Your Local Communications Today!

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

In a world where information travels fast and misinformation travels faster, it is essential that Unions are making their message heard on air, in print, or simply in the workplace. To help Locals get the word out, NFFE is proud to announce the introduction of the Communicators' Toolkit - your one-stop resource for everything you need to get your message out to your bargaining unit and beyond. Located in the NFFE Toolbox, the Communicators' Toolkit offers a wealth of newsletter, web, media,...

New Budget Proposal Offers Deepest Cuts Yet to Federal Workforce, Benefits

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Monday, Republican Senator Tom Coburn of Oklahoma released a far-reaching budget proposal that seeks to cut $9 trillion dollars from federal programs over the next decade. To fund these massive reductions, the Senator proposed the deepest cuts yet to federal agencies and their workers. The proposal would reduce the number of federal employees by a full fifteen percent, reducing the number of workers by 300,000 in ten years. It would do so by hiring just two workers for every three who leave,...

White House Launches Third Annual SAVE Award; Submit Your Idea Today!

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, the White House announced the launch of its third annual SAVE award, a yearly competition that seeks cost-cutting ideas from federal employees. Since the SAVE Award was created in 2009, federal employees have submitted more than 56,000 ideas on how to promote efficiency and reduce costs in the federal government. Dozens of the most promising ideas have been included in the President's Budget over that same span, saving hundreds of millions of dollars in the process.

Organizing Tip of the Week: Share your Stories

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE National in Washington, D.C. has been working hard to bring you the latest news, tips, and tricks in organizing. Now, it's time to hear from you! What's working at your Local? Locals have been ramping up their efforts with organizing and it's paying off, big time. Scores of federal employees make the decision to become a union member every day. With more members, we have more power; our density is our destiny. If we work together, we can fight off anti-worker legislation, reductions...

President Dougan Takes on Anti-Federal Worker Congressman in National Newspaper

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE National President William R. Dougan wrote a letter to the editor of prominent national newspaper Roll Call debunking a recent op-ed by Republican Congressman Dennis Ross of Florida. In his article, Ross called for a ten percent reduction in the federal workforce - a move that would amount to 200,000 jobs lost by 2015. Here is what President Dougan had to say in response: "The June 30 Guest Observer by Rep. Dennis Ross (R-Fla.) to justify cutting more than 200,000 federal jobs during one...

The Importance of 1187s

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

As a Local officer or steward, you should be prepared to sign up a new member at any time. If you miss an opportunity to get a prospective member to join, you might not get a second chance. It is a great habit to have 1187s printed off and in your union office at all times. These 1187s can be used during organizing drives or for stop-in visits from non-union members. The 1187 dues deduction form is the most important document that a new member needs to fill out. When organizing, it is...

Breaking the Bank: Washington's Attack on Your Retirement Security and What You Can Do to Stop It

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

"The federal retirement system we have today is secure. If you work hard for twenty, thirty, or forty years, you can earn enough to rely on. But it seems like members of Congress are forgetting about federal employees; they're forgetting about the little guys who are doing the work of the American people every day. If they try to take away our pensions or make big cuts to our benefits, a lot of people will find it hard to get by." Rigley Jackson, President of NFFE Local 1887, said what has...

Members of Congress Pay Out Over $6 Million in Staff Bonuses while Supporting Pay and Benefit Reductions for Federal Workers

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

In a political climate where Washington politicians are clamoring to cut federal pay, benefits, and retirement security, the hypocrisy that follows is truly something to behold. According to a CNN investigation on Congressional compensation, more than six million dollars in bonuses were paid out to House staff between January and March of this year. Ranging from less than one hundred dollars to as high as $17,000, the bonuses were distributed by members of both parties as well as committees.

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 CDT

This year's second edition of NFFE's quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available! Featuring the recent attacks on federal retirement security, this issue gives you the tools and information you need to fight back. Click here to see what's inside.

FEEA: Responding to Man-Made Disasters Since 1986

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

On April 19, 1995, a bomb detonated outside the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, destroying much of the building, including its daycare center. More than 160 people lost their lives that day, 99 of them civilian federal employees, targeted because they worked for the U.S. government. In the days following this tragedy, Steve Bauer, FEEA's executive director, flew to Oklahoma to see what help FEEA might be able to provide to the survivors and the families of the deceased.

Tell Us Your Story with the 'I am a Federal Employee' Blog!

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

To counter the recent attacks levied against federal employees by members of Congress and the media, the staff at the NFFE National Office has created a new blog, www.iamafederalemployee.org. This blog highlights the importance of federal employees to our nation and the sacrifices they make in the name of public service. America's hard-working and dedicated federal employees don't get nearly the credit they deserve, and we need to let our leaders know on Capitol Hill and get the public involved.

Organizing Tip of the Week: Unions Support the Federal Community

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

You can also share the many ways that NFFE is working at the National level to promote and support federal employees. One example of this is NFFE's involvement with the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA). FEEA was founded in 1986 through the collaboration of union leaders and the heads of management organizations, who felt that federal employees needed an outlet for providing and receiving assistance from one another. Then-NFFE National President Jim Pierce was one of the...

FEEA: 25 Years of Scholarships

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

When FEEA began serving the civilian federal employee community in 1986, the cost of a college education was, on average, less than $20,000/year, including room and board, at the top private universities. Even then, federal families were hard pressed to afford to put themselves or their children through school. With loaned start-up funds, FEEA provided just about $100,000 in scholarships to 131 students in its inaugural scholarship year. Since then, FEEA has depended on Combined Federal...

Administration Announces Caps on Federal Employee Merit Awards

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

The Office and Personnel Management and the Office of Management and Budget recently informed agency leadership that merit bonus awards for federal employees would be capped starting in FY 2012. At the senior executive level, awards must not exceed 5 percent of an individual's salary. The awards for other federal workers, including those in General Schedule positions, must be no more than 1 percent of an agency's aggregate salary for those positions.

Coalition of Federal Unions Pen Letter to Biden Defending Federal Pensions

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

In response to reports that the Congress and Administration were considering pension cuts as part of a deal to raise the national debt ceiling, a coalition of federal Unions last week penned a sharply worded letter urging the exclusion of retirement benefits from any potential compromise. Along with sixteen other Unions representing federal workers, NFFE called on Vice President Joe Biden - the leader of the Administration's negotiation team - to defend the hard-earned pension benefits of...

FEEA: 25 Years of Helping Feds with Everyday Emergencies

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Recent severe weather across the southern U.S. has focused attention on communities hard-hit by tornadoes and flooding. Residents of the Alabama and Missouri towns recovering from F4 and F5 tornadoes have a long road ahead of them, as do those living along the flood plains of the Mississippi River. David Ladd, a hydrologist/GIS specialist at USGS at the Tennessee Water Science Center, has particular empathy for those in the path of current flooding. In May 2010, Ladd's home in Nashville...

Organizing Tip of the Week: It Pays to be a Union Member

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

As you've probably learned from personal experience, one of the most common excuses potential members give for not joining the union is that they cannot afford the dues. In the current economic climate, this is an even bigger challenge. Fortunately, you can show them why they can't afford NOT to join! Union members have access to a number of money-saving benefits. Those members who take advantage of the discounts available to them can more than recoup the money they spend on union dues...

Local 2189 Co-Sponsors Car Show During Employee Appreciation Day

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

On Saturday, June 4, 2011 Local 2189 at the Red River Army Depot hosted a car show during the facility's Employee Appreciation Day. The car show was located at Eliot Lake, which is located inside of the depot. The event was co-sponsored by Morale, Welfare, and Recreation, which is a network of support and leisure services designed for use by soldiers, their families, civilian employees, military retirees, and other eligible participants.

Organizing Tip of the Week: Show Your Union Pride

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Successful Locals are visible Locals. How can a prospective member join your Local if they don't know it exists? And you, as a Local officer or member, are your Local's best advertisement. There are several ways you can increase the visibility of your officers and members. One of the easiest and most cost-effective is to encourage everyone to wear a NFFE-IAM lanyard or something that is visible with the NFFE logo on it. These are provided at no cost to NFFE Locals, and are a part of every...

Key House Republicans Introduce Bill to Cut 200,000 Federal Jobs by 2015

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Three high-ranking Republican members of the House of Representatives yesterday introduced the 2011 Reducing the Size of the Federal Government Through Attrition Act, a bill that would force agencies to hire only one new employee for every three who retire. Introduced by Darrell Issa (R-CA), Dennis Ross (R-FL), and Jason Chaffetz (R-UT), the proposed legislation would mandate that the federal workforce be reduced by 10 percent - or 200,000 full time equivalents - by the beginning of 2015....

FEEA: 25 Years of Feds Helping Feds - How It All Began

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

During the summer of 1986, federal budgets were being cut, the federal workforce was being reduced and many elected officials were particularly critical of federal employees. It was not a "warm and fuzzy" time to be a fed. Until G. Jerry Shaw called Bob Tobias and invited him to lunch. Shaw was then a former attorney in the IRS Office of Chief Counsel, who had gone on to help found the Senior Executives Association. Tobias was the president of the National Treasury Employees Union. At the...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Connecting with the Community

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

A Local that is visible not only in the workplace, but also within the community, is a great way to show potential members why it is important to get involved and join the Union. There are limitless ways a Local and its members can become engaged with the community. Start by choosing a service that the majority of the bargaining unit can participate in. You don't have to start big when considering how to volunteer. Volunteering can be as simple as holding a food drive, collecting toys, or...

Union Official Time Comes Under Fire at Congressional Hearing

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 CDT

At a the House Subcommittee on the Federal Workforce, Postal Service, and Labor Policy hearing Wednesday, chairman Dennis Ross (R-FL) and fellow Republican Phil Gingrey (R-GA) advocated for H.R. 122, a bill that would severely diminish Union official time. The inappropriately titled "Federal Employee Accountability Act" is a misguided bill that would eliminate federal employees' statutory rights to official time for collective bargaining and to Federal Labor Relations Authority determination...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Reach Out to New Employees

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

One of the simplest and most effective ways to get a person to join the union is to ask them. You might be surprised how many new members would sign up if someone just invited them to. While talking to a co-worker about the union is important any time, you're more likely to successfully recruit them if you do it sooner rather than later.Workers need to hear about NFFE, and all of the ways they benefit from union representation, as early and often as possible. One of the best ways to do this...

From the Desk of the President: Honoring the Fallen on Memorial Day

Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

May 30, Memorial Day, is a day to honor those who have died while serving in the military. Following the Civil War, a nation divided recognized and honored their dead; Decoration Day honored the Union dead while the Confederate Memorial Days honored fallen Confederate soldiers. From these separate days grew Memorial Day as a single day to honor all of our fallen heroes. Throughout our nation's history, a history founded upon conflict, the men and women of our military have served with honor...

NFFE National President Dougan to Deliver Testimony Tomorrow at Congressional Hearing on "Rightsizing the Federal Workforce"

Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE National President William R. Dougan will be the sole Labor representative testifying before the House Federal Workforce Subcommittee at Thursday's hearing on "Rightsizing the Federal Workforce." Dougan will defend the scope and mission of the federal workforce as House Republicans Cynthia Loomis and Thomas Marino advocate for their proposals to hire one federal worker for every two who retire and place a freeze on federal hiring, respectively. The hearing will take place on Thursday,...

Administration Circulates Memo Recommending Cap on Merit Bonuses

Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

A White House memo addressed to all department and agency heads was leaked last week containing guidance on the distribution of performance awards for federal employees. According to the memo, the Administration would cap bonuses for Senior Executive Service employees at five percent of aggregate salary and non-SES employee bonuses at one percent.

Organizing Tip of the Week: Get to Know the Legislation that Affects You

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Lobby Week has passed, but every day, legislation is popping up across the country proposing such injustices as ending official time, furloughing public employees, and extending probationary periods for federal employees, just to name a few. What can you do? Stay on top of the legislation and spread the word to your bargaining unit. Knowing the issues is an incredibly important recruiting tool. Non-members are going to ask, "Why do I need a union?" The answer is simple. NFFE is fighting for...

Legislative Conference a Huge Success as Members from Across the Country Stand for Federal Employees

Thu, 19 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

The 2011 NFFE-IAM Legislative Conference was a huge hit for NFFE-IAM members. The weeklong conference saw NFFE-IAM members bring the voice of our nation's federal workers to the halls of Capitol Hill. The conference was held at the Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill, just blocks from the home of America's seat of government here in Washington, DC. Throughout the week, members listened to several prominent speakers, attended rallies, receptions, and of course, met with members of Congress.

Treasury Borrowing from Civil Service Retirement Funds as Nation Hits Maximum Debt Ceiling: How this Impacts Your Retirement Benefits

Wed, 18 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Earlier this week, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner announced that the government had reached the national debt-ceiling, the maximum amount it may borrow to fund its obligations. In a letter to key leaders in Congress, Geithner explained that he will be borrowing funds from the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund (CSRDF) and the Government Securities Investment Fund (G Fund) in order to prevent the government from defaulting on its loans. Until elected officials can agree to raise...

NFFE National Office Phone Systems are Back Online

Wed, 18 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

The NFFE National Office's phone systems are now back online. Thank you for your patience.

Federal Pensions Reportedly in the Crosshairs as Debt Ceiling Negotiations Take Shape; Employee Contribution May Increase Seven-Fold

Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Details began to emerge this weekend from White House and congressional negotiators with regards to the shape of a long-term deficit reduction plan to coincide with the raising of the national debt ceiling. After weeks of negotiations, it appears that lawmakers will return to a familiar source to find the savings they are looking for: the federal workforce. Administration officials have reportedly agreed to Republican demands for federal workers to contribute more to their pensions, though a...

President Dougan Writes Letter to Senate Opposing Inclusion of Anti-Federal Worker Cuts in Budget Resolution

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

On behalf of the National Federation of Federal Employees and the 110,000 federal employees our union represents throughout the United States and abroad, I am writing to urge you, in considering the Senate Budget Resolution, to oppose the drastic cuts to federal employee pay and benefits offered in House Budget Resolution, H. Con. Res 34, by Representative Ryan and the Deficit Commission. Both proposals seek to extend the two year pay freeze federal employees are already facing, as well as...

NFFE Local 1 President Patricia La Sala Fights Back Against Lawmakers' Attacks on Federal Employees in Washington Post Feature Article

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Thursday, NFFE National Vice President Patricia La Sala was featured in a Washington Post story on her efforts to fight the negative attacks on federal workers emanating from Capitol Hill. Along with hundreds of other NFFE-IAM members from across the country, La Sala took her members' message to Capitol Hill during the IAM's annual Legislative Conference. La Sala, who is also president of NFFE Local 1, represents hundreds of health professionals at the San Francisco VA Medical Center in San...

Lobby Week 2011 Has Arrived; NFFE Members Bring Voice of Federal Workers to Capitol Hill

Mon, 09 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Lobby Week 2011 has arrived! This year, state and federal lawmakers have unfairly targeted federal workers and the middle class in what they call "deficit reduction measures." Lobby Week has never been more critical for NFFE members due to attempts made by misguided lawmakers on Capitol Hill here in Washington and in our State Capitols nationwide. Lobbying has become crucial to improve and maintain the livelihoods of federal workers across the country from Alaska to Florida.

From the Desk of National President Dougan: Honoring America's Nurses

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Almost 3 million nurses in the United States dedicate their lives to helping others every year. The National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE) has the privilege of representing several thousand of them, working in Veterans Affairs and Indian Health Service clinics throughout the country. National Nurses Week gives us the unique opportunity to thank these dedicated women and men. These seven days of thanks are well deserved by those who often work long, thankless hours to ensure that the...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Go for Your Goal!

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

When you think about organizing within your Local, it is important to decide exactly what you want to accomplish. While "increasing membership" is the end result we all want, your Local will be far more successful at recruiting if you set a number of smaller, quantifiable goals. Goals need to be specific and measurable, so it is clear to everyone whether or not they have been met. Aiming to sign up one new member a week or five new members a month, for example, would be easily measurable...

Reminder: Registration for 2011 IAMAW Newsletter and Website Contest Ends May 13

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Just two short weeks from now, applications for the IAMAW's annual Newsletter and Website Contest will be due. By May 13, all District and Local lodges must submit the proper entry forms in order for their website and/or newsletter to be considered in this year's competition. Over the years, NFFE Locals have consistently brought home top awards for their communications efforts. In fact, last year NFFE Locals and the national office won a record total of nine awards. This year, we're looking...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Draft Your Local Organizing Strategic Plan

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

We all know that membership density brings clout within an agency and at the bargaining table, but for some Locals, it's difficult to know where to start. There are a number of steps and strategies that your Local can utilize in order to increase your organizing success. Some pointers, like talking face-to-face to potential members, are universal. Others suggestions may vary in their effectiveness based on the specific conditions at your Local. This is why it is so important for your...

House Majority Passes Budget Bill Targeting Federal Pay, Retirement; Democrats Unanimously Oppose

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Friday, House Republicans passed a budget plan for fiscal year 2012 with all but four Republicans and without the support of a single Democrat. The budget includes provisions that would freeze federal employees' pay through 2015, require federal employees to contribute much more to their retirement plans, and reduce the federal workforce 10 percent by 2014 through "a gradual...attrition policy" which would limit agencies' ability to hire by replacing every three retirees with only one new hire.

National President Dougan, AFL-CIO President Truma, Talk Future of Labor Unions on C-SPAN

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Early this month, NFFE National President William R. Dougan was invited to Wayne State University in Detroit, MI to participate in a panel discussion about the future of labor unions in America. Joined by notable labor leaders such as AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and United Auto Workers President Bob King, Dougan argued that the future is bright for American Labor so long as we use emerging technologies to nurture a strong grassroots movement for social justice. The panel discussion was...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Get Your Organizing Committee Up and Running

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Organizing Committees create a great foundation for your Local to start working on recruitment and building a stronger presence in the workplace. A committee should be made up of people that are engaged in the Local, but not necessarily just the officers. The best place to start is at your Local's monthly meeting. Ask members who are outgoing and active if they would like to participate in creating an organizing committee.

House Committee Approves Bills to Double Federal Worker Probationary Period, Target Tax Delinquent Employees

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

The House Federal Workforce Subcommittee yesterday approved two bills that could have a significant impact on the federal workforce if passed into law. The first measure, H.R. 1470, would double the probationary period for new federal hires to two years from the current one-year period. This means that new hires would have to endure an additional year of at-will employment, having little recourse in the event that their manager decides to let them go.

House FY12 Budget Proposal Lowers Taxes for Wealthy While Cutting Federal Workforce, Freezing Pay

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

On Tuesday April 5, 2011, House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) unveiled his budget proposal for fiscal year 2012, titled "Path to Prosperity." Following in the footsteps of his home state's Governor, Scott Walker, Rep. Ryan's budget includes more misguided attacks on federal employees in a disingenuous attempt to reduce the federal deficit. While proposing tax cuts for the richest Americans - like himself and the majority of his congressional colleagues - Ryan hopes to pay for it...

NFFE Forest Service Council Elects Mark Davis as Council President

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, as the prospect of a government shutdown drew closer and closer, members of the NFFE Forest Service Council elected Mark Davis as their next President. NFFE congratulates Davis for his new role, and wishes him the best of luck as the leader of NFFE's largest Council. We would also like to thank outgoing Council President Ron Thatcher for his tireless advocacy for Forest Service employees. Upon assuming office on Monday, April 4, Davis penned the following letter to Council members.

Government Shutdown Averted as Congress Reaches Tentative Budget Deal

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Federal employees everywhere breathed a sigh of relief Friday night as Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-OH) and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) announced a tentative agreement to fund the government through the remainder of the fiscal year. Finalized with less than two hours to go, the agreement will not go into effect until later this week. Congressional staff must first write the handshake agreement into legislative language and pass a bill through both chambers before it goes...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Know the ABC's of Your CBA

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Though sometimes overlooked, one of the most valuable recruiting tools available to you is a copy of your Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Familiarizing yourself with your CBA will arm you with the necessary knowledge to become a more effective recruiter. Your CBA explains in detail what provisions your Local has negotiated on behalf of your bargaining unit members. When a prospective member asks what the Local has done for them, you can point to the countless examples contained within...

NFFE Member Ron Thatcher Featured in CNN Report 'I'm a Non-Essential Employee'

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE member and U.S. Forest Service employee Ron Thatcher of Libby, Montana was featured in a CNN story this afternoon detailing the struggles facing non-essential employees as the government rests on the verge of shutting down.

White House Supports Back-Pay for Furloughed Federal Employees; Congress Non-Committal

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

At a White House press briefing Thursday, OMB Deputy Director for Management Jeffrey Zients said that the Obama administration supports providing retroactive pay for furloughed federal employees, should a shutdown occur. Though it is important that the Administration is taking a stand, there are no guarantees that furloughed employees will be compensated. By law, only Congress can make the determination as to whether or not these workers are made whole.

Shutdown Updates: Get the Latest on Your Agency's Shutdown Plans

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Want to know what your agency is planning to do in the event of a government shutdown? The Washington Post has been collecting the most up-to-date information on shutdown plans across the federal government. Click "More" to see what your agency has in mind.

Key Lawmaker Says 900,000 Federal Workers to be Furloughed in Shutdown; Pay Reimbursement Highly Unlikely

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

On a conference call with reporters Wednesday, Rep. Jim Moran estimated that at least 900,000 federal employees would be furloughed in the event of a government shutdown. Furthermore, the Virginia lawmaker said the prospect of furloughed workers receiving back-pay would be "highly unlikely," based upon his discussions with members of the House majority. This news comes as budget negotiations between Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill have ground to a standstill.

OPM Issues Guidance, FAQs on Furloughs in the Event of Shutdown

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

If the current continuing resolution expires at 12:01 a.m. on April 9, 2011 without passage of an FY 2011 appropriations bill or a further continuing resolution, Federal departments and agencies will be required to execute contingency plans for a lapse in appropriations (more commonly referred to as a "shutdown"). These contingency plans detail which agency activities are allowed by law to continue to operate, and which activities must stop.

ACTION ALERT: Tell Congress to Quit Playing Politics with Your Job!

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

For the past several months, talks of a government shutdown have grown louder and louder as members of Congress have battled it out over legislation to fund the government for the remainder of fiscal year 2011. The result of this long-winded debate has been a series of stop-gap spending measures to keep the government afloat while politicians bicker over the details. NFFE, NTEU, and other federal unions have banded together to bring an end to Capitol Hill's budget games once and for all. On...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Education is the Key

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Access to education is a key component in building a strong union. NFFE-IAM members have access to an array of classes and opportunities at the IAMAW's William W. Winpisinger Education & Technology Center. The Center has a range of classes for new and old members. Located in Placid Harbor, Hollywood, Maryland, members can come and learn from other unionists from around the country. These classes give employees the skills necessary to become good leaders at their Locals.

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 CDT

This year's first edition of NFFE's quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available! Featuring the recent struggle in Madison, WI and the larger assault on workers' rights, this issue puts it all in perspective and shows you what you can do to fight back. Click here to see what's inside.

House Republicans Reject Tentative Budget Deal; Potential for Government Shutdown Higher than Ever

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT

For the past several months, talks of a government shutdown have grown louder and louder as members of Congress and the Administration have battled it out over legislation to fund the government for the remainder of fiscal year 2011. Republicans insist on cutting tens of billions of dollars from already cash-strapped federal agencies while Democrats have largely stood against the opposition's draconian cuts. The result of this protracted debate has been a series of stop-gap spending measures...

A Message from President Obama Honoring 100th Anniversary of Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT

On March 25, 1911, a fire spread through the cramped floors of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in lower Manhattan. Flames spread quickly through the 8th, 9th, and 10th floors -- overcrowded, littered with cloth scraps, and containing few buckets of water to douse the flames -- giving the factory workers there little time to escape. When the panicked workers tried to flee, they encountered locked doors and broken fire escapes, and were trapped by long tables and bulky machines. As bystanders...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Visit the NFFE Website Early and Often

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE's award-winning website, www.nffe.org, is an invaluable resource for members and potential members alike. The website is not solely an organizing tool, but the recruitment assistance it can provide should not be overlooked. Anyone can visit the NFFE website and learn everything from who we are as a union, to what issues we are working on nationally, and who to contact for assistance. The website is a great place to direct prospective members to gain an overview of what NFFE is all...

Republican Senators Introduce Legislation to Eliminate Federal Pensions

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, Senators Richard Burr (R-NC) and Tom Coburn (R-OK) introduced the Public-Private Employee Retirement Parity Act, S. 644, a bill to eliminate federal pensions for all new government hires starting in 2013. Under the deceptively named bill, new employees would no longer receive the pension portion of the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). Instead, workers would receive only the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) portion of FERS in addition to their Social Security.

Congress Passes Three-Week Spending Bill to Fund Government; Avoids Shutdown

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT

By a vote of 87-13, the Senate Thursday approved a shot-term spending measure that will fund the government for an additional three weeks. The bill will keep agencies operating through April 8, avoiding a potential government shutdown for the second time this month. The legislation originated in the House, where it was passed by a bipartisan vote of 271-158 with 104 Democrats and 54 Republicans opposing the measure. One of six short-term extensions to be passed this year, this three-week...

NFFE Recognizes 2010's Best Organizers with Trips to Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C.

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CDT

Locals throughout the National Federation of Federal Employees put a great deal of effort into increasing Local awareness and building membership in 2010. After a successful reception honoring 2009's best organizers, NFFE National decided to once again reward a handful of Locals with a free trip to Washington, D.C. for Legislative Conference. To honor their hard work, the NFFE National Office has chosen to recognize the five Locals which increased their membership density the most in 2010.

Wisconsin Senate Republicans Admit Budget was Never the Issue, Vote Exclusively to Eliminate Collective Bargaining Rights

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CST

Last night, Wisconsin's 19 Republican State Senator's revealed their true intentions by passing a bill with an 18 to 1 vote that would strip collective bargaining rights from public sector workers. Governor Walker and his Republican colleagues in the Statehouse initially argued these provisions were necessary to close the state's $137 million budget shortfall. However, their true intentions were exposed last night when they isolated anti-union measures from the bill and voted to strip...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Utilize New Member and Recruitment Kits

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CST

A number of resources, including both information and supplies, are available to NFFE Locals to aid with recruiting efforts. Some great examples are NFFE's recruitment and new member kits. New Member Kits can be given to new union members as soon as they sign up, or can be delivered a short time later, as a means of following up with the newest members of your Local. Make sure you take advantage of this opportunity to thank them for their membership, and welcome them to the NFFE family. Like...

National President Dougan and VA Council President Redding Visit Atlanta VA Medical Center, CBOC's

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CST

Last week, NFFE National President William R. Dougan and VA Council President Robert Redding visited NFFE Local 2102, representing physicians, pharmacists, nurses, social workers, and other health professionals at the Atlanta VA Medical Center and surrounding Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOC). Hosting a series of lunch-and-learns, Dougan spoke with rank and file VA employees about a number of topics, such labor-management relations forums, the federal pay freeze, and government...

Federal Times Op-Ed by William R. Dougan: Federal Labor-Management Partnerships can Solve Problems; Time to Move from Process to Real Dialogue

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CST

Federal unions greeted the December 2009 signing of President Obama's executive order re-establishing federal labor-management partnerships with much optimism. After eight years of limited access and minimal dialogue between unions and agency leadership under the Bush administration, the promise of a National Council on Federal Labor-Management Relations and individual labor-management forums throughout government was a breath of fresh air. Such collaboration between unions and management...

NFFE Members and Other "Outside Agitators" Hold the Line in Wisconsin

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CST

NFFE-IAM member Tim McKenzie (holding IAM sign), and many of his fellow Minnesotans were among the tens of thousands of demonstrators in Madison, WI on Saturday. Protests continued against Republican efforts to strip collective bargaining rights from public employees and were bolstered by the presence of notable "outside agitators." One such agitator was celebrated filmmaker, Michael Moore, who flew from New York to Madison on impulse Saturday morning, much to the surprise and delight of...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Talk to at Least One Person Each Day About the Union

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CST

One of the best ways to get the word out about your Local is to talk face-to-face with people in your bargaining unit who are not yet members. This may seem obvious, but people are more likely to join when they are approached by someone who is already a member and understands the benefits of being in the union. They are also more likely to join if they understand what the Union is doing on their behalf. We encourage local officers and representatives to use official time to discuss...

NFFE National Vice President John Obst Speaks out in Wisconsin Newspaper

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CST

"What does democracy look like?" shouted one protester. "THIS IS WHAT DEMOCRACY LOOKS LIKE!!" chanted thousands of Union Sisters and Brothers in Madison, Wisconsin as they demonstrated against Republican Governor Walker's pledge to strip collective bargaining from public employees. Madison's only daily newspaper, the Wisconsin State Journal, took a poke at the demonstrators, telling the newspaper's readers that democracy equates to election returns. Upset by that narrow editorial stance,...

Let's Make a Deal: Congress Votes to Fund Government for Two More Weeks, Avoids Shutdown

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CST

The Senate voted 91-9 Wednesday morning on a measure to the fund the government for an additional two weeks, avoiding a potential shutdown and keeping federal employees on the job. After the current continuing resolution expires this Friday, lawmakers will have until midnight on March 18th to pass another funding measure, or again risk a shutdown. The bill originated in the House of Representatives, where Democrats refused to support an earlier measure that included $61 billion in federal...

New on NFFE.org: The NFFE Legislative Action Center

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CST

As a citizen of the United States of America, you have the right to seek help from your elected representatives in addressing your concerns -- including policies that affect your conditions of employment as a federal employee. In a political climate where elected officials are targeting the federal workforce for deep cuts, it is essential for federal workers to speak truth to power and defend our livelihoods. To give you the upper hand in this struggle, your union has developed the NFFE...

NFFE Local 276 Marches in Solidarity with Wisconsin Workers

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 CST

Since Republican Governor Scott Walker introduced a bill to strip state employees of their right to bargain collectively, workers rights advocates and union members from across the country have descended on Madison, Wisconsin, to stand up for their rights. Joining the thousands of protestors at the State Capitol last week were members of NFFE Local 276, who work at the US Forest Service's Forest Products Laboratory nearby in the city. Repulsed by the Governor's unjust attack on the rights of...

2011 FEEA and Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarship Application Deadline Just One Month Away; Apply Now!

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

This is a reminder that all applications for the 2011 FEEA and Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarships must be postmarked by one month from today - March 25th - in order to be considered. Applicants for the Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarship must be a NFFE-IAM member in good standing or a spouse or child of a member in good standing. Submitting an application will also automatically register applicants for hundreds of other FEEA scholarships.

Organizing Tip of the Week: What is Your Bulletin Board Saying about Your Local?

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

Your members have a right to know everything that is going on. Bulletin boards can give them a quick snapshot of what the union is doing at the Local and National level. The most crucial information that should always be on display is the Local union office and officers' contact information. Be sure to update the information on your bulletin board regularly. Some legislative materials or newsworthy events are time sensitive. If you allow the information on the board to become out of date and...

Protestors Rally in Washington, D.C. in Solidarity with Wisconsin State Employees (Photos)

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

Wednesday, over a thousand protestors gathered in Washington, D.C. in front of the D.C. offices of the Wisconsin and Ohio governors as part of a worker solidarity rally. NFFE joined students, workers, and union members from several states in a show of support for workers who are battling to retain their collective bargaining rights in Wisconsin. The battle cries were loud as people protested Governor Scott Walker's (R) attempts to crush unions in his state. With gatherings such as these...

On the Ground in Madison: NFFE National Vice President John Obst Shares His Rally Experience

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

"DON'T TAKE MY RIGHTS AWAY - I'M NOT DONE WITH THEM YET!!" read one of the most poignant signs held by thousands of protesters who have peacefully "overrun" the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison. Newly elected Republican Governor Walker used exaggerated claims of a budget crisis to demand that government workers pay more toward their retirement and health benefits - and his budget bill also proposes to strip away collective bargaining rights for all except police officers and firefighters....

House Passes Funding Measure with $61 Billion in Cuts; Amendments to Freeze Federal Step Increases, Ban Union Official Time, Fail

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

In the early hours of Saturday morning, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, the FY 2011 Continuing Resolution, a bill to fund the federal government for the remainder of the fiscal year, ending September 30th. The highly contentious legislation slashes the federal budget by a whopping $61 billion this year, impacting nearly every government agency. The Departments of Agriculture, Housing & Urban Development, Interior, and State are each slated to see budget cuts totaling in the...

From the Desk of the President: A Message for Madison

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

What we are seeing this week in Madison, Wisconsin is the beginning of something unlike anything we have seen in generations. Governor Scott Walker, and his anti-union colleagues in the State Senate, have launched what is undoubtedly the first of many attempts by some state governments across the nation to crush the collective voice of their workers. Disguised as a deficit reduction measure, Walker's cynical ploy is designed to strip workers of their rights to bargain, and break the backs of...

National President Dougan Pens Congress in Opposition to Amendment Freezing Step Increases, Bonuses

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

Yesterday, NFFE National President William R. Dougan penned the a letter to the House of Representatives, opposing the Issa amendment to the 2011 Continuing Resolution. The amendment would bar all merit-based raises and bonuses for high-performing federal employees. The letter went as follows.

Organizing Tip of the Week: Keep an Up-to-Date Bargaining Unit List

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

One important component of successful organizing is obtaining a copy of your list of eligible members on a regular basis. After all, in order to recruit new members, we need to know who to talk to! Bargaining unit lists are helpful to have on hand during formal organizing drives, so you have a record of the employees that are eligible to become a member of your Local. You should also keep a current copy in your union office, so you can verify whether your visitors are already members, and...

Lawmaker Introduces Legislation to Freeze Federal Hiring, Slash Workforce Through Attrition

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

Last week, Representative Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced the Federal Workforce Reduction Act of 2011, H.R. 657, a bill that would freeze federal hiring and slash the workforce through attrition. Co-sponsored by 27 other Republican lawmakers, the bill will place an indefinite hiring freeze on all federal agencies except for the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, and Veterans Affairs. Complementing the freeze is a proposed "2 for 1" hiring restriction, permitting covered agencies to...

House Representatives Maloney, Hoyer, Connolly, Introduce Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

Last week, House Representatives Carolynn Maloney, Steny Hoyer, and Gerald Connolly introduced the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act, a bill to extend four weeks of paid leave to parents of newly born, adopted or fostered children. Under present law, new parents are entitled to up to twelve weeks of unpaid leave. While they may elect to use accrued annual or sick leave to supplement their salaries during their absence, many must choose between a paycheck and caring for their newborn...

Republicans Up the Ante, Pledge to Cut an Additional $26 Billion from Federal Agency Budgets

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

Responding to growing pressure from conservative members of the party, House Republicans yesterday announced that they will pursue an additional $26 billion in cuts to federal agency budgets this fiscal year. Combined with the $74 billion in cuts announced earlier this week, Republicans seek to keep their campaign promise by slashing agency budgets a total of $100 billion during first year in power.

Organizing Tip of the Week: Use Sign-in Sheets in Your Union Office and at Union Events

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

One extremely valuable, but often overlooked, tool that every NFFE Local can utilize is the sign-in sheet. Sign-in sheets should be kept near the entrance to your union office, and also be brought to every union-sponsored event. These sheets will provide you with an important record of the potential members that have shown an interest in your Local. In order to make the best use of your sign-in sheets, it is important to ask for contact information from your signers.

House Republicans Target U.S. Forest Service, Park Service, HUD, for Deep Budget Cuts

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

This morning, House Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers (R-KY) released a list of 70 budget cuts committee Republicans will propose for the remainder of FY 2011. This round of cuts are just the start of what will total $74 billion in reductions between today and February 14th, when the House will issue its proposal to fund the government through 2011. A number of departments and agencies with NFFE-represented employees will be affected, including the U.S. Forest Service, the...

Organizing Tip of the Week: Order NFFE Visibility Materials, Free of Charge!

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

Thanks for reading the first installment of NFFE's Organizing Tip of the Week! Going forward, NFFE will post one piece of recruitment advice every week so that all NFFE members can be equipped with the same knowledge as some of our union's most experienced organizers. This week, we are asking all NFFE Locals to take advantage of our free visibility materials. NFFE has nearly 20 different flyers, signs, brochures, and handbills available to raise awareness of your Local in the workplace....

House Budget Chairman Announces $74 Billion in Cuts for Remainder of FY 2011; Fears of Government Shutdown on the Rise

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 CST

Yesterday, House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI), announced that House Republicans intend to slash $74 billion dollars from the federal budget for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2011. Though a detailed proposal will not be released until February 14th, sources suggest $32-$40 billion of these cuts will come from agency budgets over the next few months. Exempting the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, and Veterans Affairs, these cuts will force many other federal agencies to...

Union, Management Sign New Collective Bargaining Agreement Built on Employee Concerns

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 CST

The New England District management team and the NFFE-IAMAW, AFL-CIO Local 1164 Union signed a new Collective Bargaining Agreement with a signing event held on Dec. 13, 2010 in the Gridley Conference Room. The signing ushered in a new way District Management and the Union negotiate contract agreements. Before formal negotiations began, members of the Management Negotiation Team and the Union Negotiation Team traveled to Maryland to attend special negotiation training.

Spotlight on Federal Pay: New House Leadership Calls for Federal Pay Freeze

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CST

As the opening of the 112th Congress grows nearer, calls to cut federal spending and slash the deficit have reached a fevered pitch. With the budget deficit looming large, lawmakers from both chambers have called for belt-tightening measures, many of which unapologetically target federal workers. In the next session the federal workforce will undoubtedly see attempts to freeze or cut salaries that already fall 24 percent behind those of private sector employees. Just days after the mid-term...

A Letter From the Desk of the Legislative Director: What the Next Congress has in Store for Federal Employees

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CST

The 2010 elections are over, and as you probably have heard, there are major changes in the makeup of Congress. The Republican Party has taken control of the House of Representatives, and GOP leadership has declared that cutting federal workers pay and benefits is a top priority. In the first weeks of the new Congress starting in January, we are expecting votes on freezing or reducing federal pay across the board, cutting the size of the federal workforce, reducing the value of federal...

IAM Announces 2011 Communications Trainings at the Winpisinger Center

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CST

This week the IAM officially announced a number of exciting communications trainings for union members. Hosted at the William W. Winpisinger Center Education & Technology Center in Hollywood, Maryland, the IAM will host 5 separate five trainings for several hundred NFFE-IAM members throughout the new year. The classes will cover diverse subjects such as basic newsletter and website development, advanced website development, and how to become an effective Local communicator.

A Veterans Day Message From the Desk of NFFE National President William R. Dougan

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CST

Veteran's Day is a day of remembrance to honor America's veterans, living and dead, for their sacrifice in serving their country. It provides an opportunity for us to remember and honor the sacrifices our veterans have made in defending our country and protecting the rights and privileges we all continue to enjoy. The debt owed every man and woman who has served their country can never be repaid in full. Their stories and history are woven into the rich and diverse tapestry that defines who...

In Landmark Decision, MSPB Finds Federal Career Intern Program in Violation of Veterans Preference Rights

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CST

In a ruling issued last week, the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) found that the Federal Career Intern Program (FCIP) was in violation of Veteran's Preference laws, a decision holding major implications for the controversial program. The decision mandated that the program be placed under review, giving OPM 120 days to ensure that it is in compliance with Title V before resuming.

National President Dougan Talks Post-Election Political Landscape with Federal News Radio

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CST

This morning, NFFE National President William R. Dougan joined Tom Temin and Amy Morris on Federal News Radio's Federal Drive, to discuss the aftermath of the recent Congressional elections. Covering key issues such as telework and temporary hiring authority, Dougan discussed the challenges and opportunities presented by the newly elected Congress, and how NFFE intends to make the most of them.

President Obama Appoints National Secretary-Treasurer William D. Fenaughty to Federal Salary Council

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Recently, President Barack Obama appointed NFFE National Secretary-Treasurer William D. Fenaughty to serve on the Federal Salary Council (FSC), an advisory body responsible for making recommendations on locality pay for workers under the General Schedule. A civil servant and union representative for nearly 35 years, Fenaughty brings a wealth of experience to the committee, which he intends to use for the benefit of the federal workforce.

NFFE Forest Service Council, Management Representatives, Gather for Union Training in Reno, Nevada

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, Local 1771, Region 5, and the NFFE Forest Service Council hosted its 16th annual Union Officers and Stewards Training in Reno, Nevada. As this event marked the first time in several years members, as well as management, assembled together to confront the complex challenges facing unions today, NFFE National President William R. Dougan and Office of Personnel Management Director John Berry used the opportunity to unveil some exciting additions to the union agenda for the upcoming...

NSPS Transition Office Meets its Goal; Majority of NSPS Workers Now Transitioned into Existing Pay Systems

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT

The Department of Defense (DoD) has exceeded its goal of transitioning the majority of National Security Personnel System workers back under existing pay systems. According to the NSPS Transition Team's website, just under 172,000 of the 226,000 NSPS-covered workers have been reassigned. Approximately 75 percent of the transitioned employees have been moved under the General Schedule.

Telework Update: President Obama Issues Statement Promoting Telework Expansion

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT

In honor of National Work and Family Month, President Obama yesterday issued a statement promoting workplace flexibilities such as telework, alternative work schedules, and paid leave. His hope for the federal government and private sector is that employers will adopt policies that allow workers to spend more time with their families.

NFFE 2109 Takes Home Two Awards in 2010 IAM Communications Contest

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, the IAM announced the winners of its annual Newsletter and Website Contest, a competition that honors excellence in both print and digital labor journalism. Out of a field of hundreds of Locals and Districts, one name appeared time and time again: NFFE. All together, NFFE Locals and the National Office won a combined nine awards spanning across five separate categories, easily surpassing last year's record of seven.

NFFE Takes Home Nine Awards in 2010 IAM Communications Contest

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT

2010-2011 Organizing Strategic Plan Ready for Action; Read it Here!

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT

The NFFE National Organizing Steering Committee is proud to announce the release of the 2010-2011 Organizing Strategic Plan, a plan that we believe will take this unions organizing success to the next level. Building on the accomplishments of last year's plan, the 2010-2011 edition makes key changes in the areas of incentives and organizing staff that will make recruiting easier than ever.

Federal Workers Alliance Calls for FLRA Budget Boost in FY12

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT

In a letter to President Obama last week, the Federal Workers Alliance (FWA) called for a modest increase to the Federal Labor Relations Authority's (FLRA) budget for fiscal year 2012. In his fiscal year 2011 budget, the President called for $26 million, a figure that the FWA says must be raised to $30 million in order for the agency to properly address its overburdened caseload.

Telework Gains Momentum as Congress, Administration, Call for Action

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Ever since a freak snow storm buried our nation's capital under two feet of snow last winter - shutting down the federal government for four days in the process - telework has been a topic of great interest in Washington. In recent months and weeks, members of Congress and the Obama Administration have undertaken a serious push toward what many believe may finally deliver telework opportunities to the federal workforce.

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 CDT

This year's third edition of NFFE's quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available! Click here to see what's inside.

200 Convene in Los Angeles for DoD New Beginnings Conference

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT

From September 20-23, about 200 representatives of federal unions, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) met in Los Angeles, CA to brainstorm ideas for potential changes at DoD regarding performance management, hiring, and workplace incentives. Called the "New Beginnings" conference, this gathering was the first significant labor-management conference at DoD since President Obama signed Executive Order 13522 in May of 2010 establishing the...

Congressman Proposes Legislation Mandating Two-Week Furloughs for Federal Workers

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Late last week, Rep. Mike Coffman (R-CO) introduced a bill that would subject federal workers to a two week furlough this coming year, a move he says will save the government $5.5 billion. When the bill is read closely, however, it is clear that it is less about reducing the deficit and more about targeting federal employees for political gain.

Happy 93rd Birthday NFFE!

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT

On Friday, September 17 NFFE celebrated its 93rd year of fighting for federal workers. Ratifying its constitution on this date in 1917, NFFE was the first union to represent exclusively non-postal federal employees. Throughout our near century-long existence, NFFE has played a major role in nearly every significant federal workforce policy: from the 40 hour work week to health care benefits; from retirement credit for annual leave to health benefits for workers and their families, NFFE has...

NFFE Organizing Strategic Plan Review Set for Next Week at the Winpisinger Center; Give Us Your Feedback!

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT

The week of September 12-17, members of the NFFE National Organizing Steering Committee will come together in person for just the second time to reevaluate the union's now year-old Organizing Strategic Plan. Set at the William W. Winpisinger Education & Technology Center in Placid Harbor, MD, the review session will take a three-tiered approach: evaluating effectiveness and progress, revising the plan to incorporate best practices, and developing means for implementation of the revised...

Reminder: Registration for Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarship Motorcycle Run Ends September 10

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Registration for the first annual Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarship Fund Motorcycle Run ends this Friday September 10th. The run, organized by late NFFE National President Richard N. Brown's sister Kimberly Carl, is scheduled for Sunday, September 19th. Encompassing a 45-mile route throughout the capital region of New York, the run will begin at the Watervliet Arsenal and end at Moreau Lake State Park in Ganesvoort.

A Labor Day Message from National President William R. Dougan

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Labor Day was first proclaimed a federal holiday by President Grover Cleveland in 1894. Coming off the heels of the Pullman Strike and others before it, in which hundreds of striking workers were killed by federal law enforcement and private union-busters, the first Labor Day was a somber occasion. More than 100 Labor Days since, the determination and rugged idealism of organized workers throughout the nation have fundamentally changed the life of every working American.

National Federation of Federal Employees: A Century of Progress

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Ratifying its constitution on September 17, 1917, the National Federation of Federal Employees is the oldest union representing exclusively non-postal federal employees. For nearly a century, NFFE has played a significant role in nearly every important federal workforce policy. In honor of its 93rd birthday this month, NFFE put together this brief video highlighting some of its greatest accomplishments throughout its rich history.

Congratulations to Bryanna Gordon and Rachel McFalls on Winning Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarships!

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Today, NFFE would like to congratulate Bryanna Gordon of Hamilton, MT and Rachel McFalls of Brandon, MS on winning the first annual Richard N. Memorial Scholarships. Each was awarded with $1,000 toward furthering their collegiate education this school year.

IAM Announces Latest Communicator Class at the Winpisinger Center; Ask About it Today!

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT

The IAM this week officially announced that the next Local Communicator Class will be held December 12-17, at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center at Placid Harbor in Hollywood, Maryland. Offered by the IAM Communications Department, this basic course is geared at Local Communicators who are not currently publishing newsletters or websites.

NFFE Local 589 Members Call for Change at Jackson VA Medical Center

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT

After years of frustration with understaffing, mismanagement, and a hostile work environment, NFFE Local 589 physicians are calling for change at the G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery VA Medical Center. In recent months, Local officials have joined together with other unions at the facility to fight back against a management culture that has diminished employee morale and deprived physicians of the tools they need to care for our nation's veterans.

NFFE Local 1 Raises Hundreds at Successful MNPL Party

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT

This past Saturday, NFFE National Vice President and President of Local 1 Patricia LaSala, held an immensely successful fundraiser for the Machinists Nonpartisan Political League (MNPL), the political arm of NFFE-IAM. Raising hundreds of dollars over the course of the daylong event, Local 1 members from the San Francisco VA Medical Center shared drinks and hors d'oeuvres in the backyard of Patricia LaSala's Haight Street home.

Congress Takes another Swipe at Federal Workers as Senator Proposes Workforce Cap and Reduction Bill

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT) last week introduced S. 3747, the Reduce and Cap the Federal Workforce Act, a bill that seeks to reduce costs by diminishing the size of the federal workforce. The bill would first require federal agencies to report their workforce levels as of February 16, 2009 to the Office of Management and Budget. If their current staff size exceeds that of February 2009 levels, then they must reduce their workforce through attrition until it reaches that point.

Senate Panel Passes Expanded Collective Bargaining For VA Health Care Providers

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT

On Thursday, the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee approved a bill (S. 3486) that would extend collective bargaining to Department of Veterans Affairs Title 38 health care providers over issues concerning compensation. Under current statute, VA employees under Title 38, including registered nurses, physician assistants, doctors, dentists, and other health care providers, cannot collectively bargain or be assured of reaching resolution on grievances for issues related to employee compensation.

1.4 Percent Civilian Pay Adjustment Survives Senate Committee; Advances to Full Senate

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Despite repeated attempts by certain members of Congress to freeze federal pay, the Senate Appropriations Committee last week upheld the 1.4 percent pay adjustment for civilian federal employees by approving the Fiscal Year 2011 Financial Services and General Government spending bill. Originally introduced as part of President Obama's budget request, the pay adjustment has received a great deal of action during its six months on Capitol Hill.

New Executive Order Promotes Increase in Employment of Individuals with Disabilities

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

On the twentieth anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, yesterday President Obama issued an Executive Order requiring federal agencies to increase their efforts to recruit and retain individuals with disabilities. In doing so, he aims to increase the employment of disabled workers by 100,000 over the next five years.

President Obama Calls for Improved Federal Workplace Safety in New Executive Memo

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

President Barack Obama issued an Executive Memorandum yesterday announcing the Protecting Our Workers and Ensuring Reemployment (POWER) Initiative, a program which seeks to improve worker safety and lower costs related to workplace injuries.

Members Chosen for NFFE National Forum on Individuals with Disabilities; Work to Begin this Fall

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Today, NFFE is proud to announce the 12 members of the new NFFE National Forum on Individuals with Disabilities, a working group of union representatives tasked with identifying and promoting ideas to help improve the quality of employment for disabled members of the federal workforce.

National President Dougan Appointed to the Federal Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Yesterday, NFFE National President William R. Dougan was appointed by U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis to serve as a member of the Federal Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health (FACOSH), an advisory group that helps plan, develop, and organize federal health and safety programs and initiatives.

Local 1998 VP Rob Arnold Appointed to Succeed Colin Walle as NFFE National Vice President

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE is proud to announce the selection of Rob Arnold as NFFE's newest National Vice President (NVP). He will succeed National Vice President Colin Walle, who has served as an NVP since his election at the 2008 NFFE National Convention. Walle recently left the Seattle Passport Agency for work in the Minneapolis Passport office, a job which is outside of the NFFE bargaining unit, but closer to his family.

White House Launches 2nd Annual President's SAVE Award; Submit Your Ideas Today!

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Today, the White House announced the launch of its second annual President's SAVE Award, a contest that calls on federal employees to submit their ideas for saving money and improving performance at their agencies. The winner of this year's contest will be rewarded with a trip to the White House to personally brief President Obama on their idea.

FLRA and FMCS Announce Additional Labor-Management Partnership Order Trainings

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

The two-day training program is designed to enhance participants' knowledge of bargaining rights and obligations under the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute. Participants should attend the program with their bargaining counterparts so that management and union representatives will have a common understanding and shared experience of the information and skills needed for effective labor management forums.

Hundreds of NFFE Items Available at New Online Store!

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

We are now proud to introduce NFFE's new online store, which provides a wide selection of custom-made NFFE promotional items for members. The new online store has literally hundreds of different items for members to choose from including shirts, hoodies, jackets, hats, athletic wear, and other items.

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 CDT

This year's second edition of NFFE's quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available! Click here to see what's inside.

Washington Post -- Congress to consider plight of temps with '1039 appointments'

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

With all of the right jabs aimed at the pay of federal employees in recent weeks, you might not realize the lengths Uncle Sam will go to avoid fully compensating some members of his staff. Among those are staffers with the infamous "1039 appointments." Congress will consider their plight at a hearing Wednesday before the House Oversight and Government Reform subcommittee on the federal workforce.

NFFE Welcomes Hundreds of New Members, Business Representative Roosevelt Littlejohn, to the Union

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Through recent discussions with the IAM, NFFE is proud to announce that it will now represent approximately 450 new members working in various law enforcement capacities throughout the Mid-Atlantic States. NFFE would also like to welcome Roosevelt Littlejohn, an experienced Business Representative who has spent years organizing and representing service contract Locals.

Legislation Positively Impacting VA Employees Signed Into Law; New Bill to Address VA Compensation Problems Introduced

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Recently, President Obama signed into law the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2010. The National Federation of Federal Employees lobbied Congress hard for a number of critical provisions that were ultimately included in the final version of the bill.

Local 2189 Holds Immensely Successful Organizing Drive; Increases Membership 12 Percent

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, a team of representatives from the NFFE National Office traveled to Texarkana, TX and conducted an organizing drive alongside NFFE Local 2189 members at the Red River Army Depot. Over the course of a very busy four days, the team worked with Local officers and stewards, talking to prospective members throughout the facility.

Senator's Amendment to Freeze Federal Pay Fails; More Attempts Likely to Come

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Thursday, the Senate rejected an amendment to the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act, which sought to freeze federal employee pay, eliminate bonuses, and cap the size of the federal workforce. Introduced by Senator John Thune (R-SD), the amendment was defeated in a 57-41 party line vote.

Legislative Director Erwin Talks Federal Pay on Federal News Radio

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

This morning, NFFE Legislative Director Randy Erwin sat down with Federal News Radio's Mike Causey to discuss the latest developments in federal pay and the NSPS transition. Discussing recent attempts by Republicans in Congress to freeze or even reduce federal pay, Erwin discussed the likelihood of such a measure passing, and what the union is doing to ensure that it does not.

Obama Issues Memo Extending New Benefits to Domestic Partners of Federal Employees

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Wednesday, President Barack Obama issued a memo detailing new regulations directing agency leaders to extend certain employee benefits to the domestic partners of gay and lesbian federal employees. The memo was issued following the conclusion of a year-long investigation by OPM regarding which benefits could be broadened to include them without the need for legislative action.

Watervliet Arsenal Continues to Build on Memorial Day

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 00:00:00 CDT

For nearly 200 years, the Watervliet Arsenal has been well known for its ability to create, build, and manufacturer military hardware. This past Memorial Day, the Arsenal workforce applied those skills to a larger purpose by helping to build a foundation of 'values' within the local community, a foundation that may last generations.

From the Desk of the President: Honoring America's Fallen Heroes

Fri, 28 May 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Memorial Day commemorates the men and women who died while in military service. Our nation was founded in conflict, and throughout our great history when called upon to serve our country, the men and women of our military have not hesitated to answer the call. And in rushing to protect our country, its citizens, and our way of life, many men and women have paid the ultimate price of defending our country with their lives.

Local 178 Organizing Committee Charts Course for Big Summer Campaign

Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 CDT

At a meeting of the Local 178 Organizing Committee yesterday, Local President Lisa Foust, accompanied by National Secretary Treasurer William D. Fenaughty and National Business Representative John Griffin, laid out an ambitious plan for growing membership in the coming weeks and months. With the help of the NFFE National Office, Local 178 plans on doubling its membership by summer's end.

Photos from the 2010 IAM Legislative Conference Now Available!

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Photos from this year's IAM Legislative Conference, also known as Lobby Week, are now available on the NFFE website! Click here to view the photos from this year's conference.

Congressional Budget Office Releases Report on Domestic Partner Benefits Bill; President Dougan Calls for Action

Wed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Expanding full benefits to domestic partners of federal employees will cost a total of $101 million dollars in direct spending over the next five years, according to a recent report issued by the Congressional Budget Office. The bill, formally known as the Domestic Partnership Benefits and Obligations Act of 2009 (S. 1102), would make same-sex domestic partners of federal employees eligible to receive the same employment benefits as married spouses of federal employees.

National President Dougan Receives Good Scout Award for Labor

Wed, 12 May 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Yesterday, NFFE National President William R. Dougan was honored by the National Capital Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America with the Good Scout Award for leadership in the labor movement. The awards, given to four people each year, honor individuals from both the public and private sectors who exude the merit principles of the Boy Scouts in their day to day work.

2010 Legislative Conference has Arrived

Tue, 11 May 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Yesterday marked the beginning of 2010 Legislative Conference, as NFFE-IAM representatives from around the country descended on Washington, D.C. for the IAMAW's annual legislative meeting. Building on the legislative successes of 2009, NFFE-IAM members look to keep the ball rolling on some of their highest priorities in 2010.

From the Desk of the President: Honoring America's Nurses

Thu, 06 May 2010 00:00:00 CDT

May 6 is National Nurses Day, beginning a week of celebration for all Americans to remember and honor the service of all nurses throughout our great nation. Their dedication and selfless service in caring for our elderly, our ill, our injured and our wounded warriors returning from Afghanistan and Iraq is nothing short of remarkable.

NFFE Local # 1 Members Attend Conference on Improving Medical Care for Veterans

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Earlier this month, NFFE Local 1 representatives joined 3500 VA workers from across the nation at the Primary Care Medical Home Conference in Las Vegas, NV, to discuss a new model of care for our nation's veterans. The objective of the conference was both ambitious and deliberate: To improve patient satisfaction, clinical quality, safety and efficiencies by becoming a national leader in the delivery of primary care services through transformation to a medical home model of health care delivery.

NSPS Transition Ahead of Schedule; Majority to be in Existing Pay Systems by End of 2010

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 00:00:00 CDT

This week, the National Security Personnel System (NSPS) Transition Office announced that plans to move the 226,000 covered employees into existing pay systems are well ahead of schedule. According to NSPS transition leader John H. James, the majority of workers are expected to be transitioned by September 30th, 2010, a full year ahead of the guidelines laid out in the 2010 National Defense Authorization Act.

Welcome to NFFE.org: New Website Training Now Available!

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE Communications is proud to announce the release of a new, comprehensive virtual tour of the national website, www.nffe.org. The training is available to both members and non-members so that every federal worker can see the value of union representation.

Legislative Director Erwin Talks TSP Annual Leave Investment Bill on Federal News Radio

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 00:00:00 CDT

This morning, NFFE Legislative Director Randy Erwin sat down with Federal News Radio's Mike Causey to discuss Federal Employees and Uniformed Services Retirement Equity Act of 2010 (H.R. 4865), a bill that allows civilian and military federal employees to invest the cash value of accrued annual leave in their Thrift Savings Plan retirement accounts.

National President Dougan Signs Partnership Agreement with NAVSEA Brass; Establishes Labor-Management Relations Council

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Monday, NFFE National President William R. Dougan signed a partnership agreement establishing the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Labor-Management Council. The signing ceremony and initial meeting represents an opportunity for all participants to come to a consensus on the goals and opportunities created by the contract.

National President Dougan Calls for Full Bargaining Rights for VA Workers in Congressional Testimony

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Yesterday, NFFE National President William R. Dougan submitted testimony to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health, urging the extension of full collective bargaining rights for Veterans' Administration workers.

FLRA and FMCS to Provide Regional Trainings on Partnership Order

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 00:00:00 CDT

In a press release issued yesterday, the Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) announced that it was partnering with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) to offer training on the implementation of Executive Order 13522, Creating Labor-Management Forums to Improve Delivery of Government Services.

NFFE Local 1 Member, Former Astronaut Millie Hughes-Fulford, Profiled in San Francisco Chronicle

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, NFFE Local 1 member Millie Hughes-Fulford was profiled in the San Francisco Chronicle, Northern California's largest newspaper, for her research on outer space and its impact on the human immune system. On Monday, April 5th, space shuttle Discovery launched into orbit, carrying her latest experiment 215 miles above the earth's surface to the international space station.

NFFE Attends White House Forum on Workplace Flexibility

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 CDT

This week, the White House held a first-of-its-kind forum on workplace flexibility, inviting leaders from business, labor, government, advocacy groups, and average working people to share their ideas on how to build a better workplace for the 21st century. The forum kicked off with remarks by Senior Advisor to the President Valerie Jarrett and First Lady Michelle Obama, who emphasized the urgent need for new workplace flexibilities to address the new work, family, and personal...

GovExec Magazine --

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 00:00:00 CDT

The Office of Personnel Management on Tuesday reminded agencies that the clock is ticking on a three-year grace period for a rule that bars federal employees from stockpiling compensatory time off. Employees have until May 22 to use up comp time they accumulated in lieu of overtime pay before the March 2007 policy went into effect.

NFFE Civilian Conservation Corps Representatives Lobby their Elected Officials in Washington, DC

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, seven representatives from NFFE Locals 1840, 1855 and 1697 came to Washington, DC to lobby their members of Congress on issues impacting USFS Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) centers nationwide. Lead by the Forest Service Council's CCC Vice President Larry E. King and NFFE Legislative Director Randy Erwin, the group visited nearly 50 Congressional offices over the course of just 4 days.

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available!

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 CDT

This year's first edition of NFFE's quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available! Click here to see what's inside.

Deadline for Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarship, other FEEA Scholarship Applications, Approaches

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 CDT

Applications for this year's annual FEEA Scholarship comptetition must be postmarked by Friday, March 26th, in order to be eligible for the Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarship and hundreds of others.

President Dougan, Vice President Ostrowski, Discuss Federal Issues with Members of Congress

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE National President William R. Dougan and National Vice President Timothy Ostrowski met with key leaders at a Congressional breakfast last week to discuss a broad array of issues impacting the nation. Congressman Paul Tonko (D-NY) and Congresswoman Betty Sutton (D-OH) were on hand to listen to NFFE's ideas for stimulating the ailing economy, and what role federal workers can play in this process.

Deadline Nears for 2010 Legislative Conference

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 CST

The cut-off date for reduced room rates for the IAM 2010 Legislative Conference is April 1, 2010. The Conference will be held May 10-13 at the Hyatt Regency in Washington, D.C. The Conference will kick off on Monday, May 10 at 1:30 p.m. with opening remarks by Headquarters GVP Rich Michalski, who will serve as permanent chairperson.

Legislative Director Erwin Discusses the NSPS Transition on Federal News Radio

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 CST

This morning, NFFE Legislative Director Randy Erwin sat down with Federal News Radio's Mike Causey to discuss the latest news in DoD's effort to transition covered workers from the controversial National Security Personnel System (NSPS) back into existing pay systems.

NFFE Recognizes Locals' Organizing Success with Free Trips to Washington, DC for Lobby Week

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 CST

NFFE is excited to announce that five Locals are being rewarded for their efforts and commitment to building their membership. These Locals, nominated by their respective business representatives and approved by NFFE's National Organizing Committee, will each receive a free trip to Washington, D.C. for one member to attend the 2010 IAM Legislative Conference, also known as Lobby Week.

Richard N. Brown Memorial Scholarship Application Now Available

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 CST

The Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA), a non-profit organization that provides scholarships and emergency assistance to federal employees and their families, is now accepting applications for its annual scholarship competition. Last year, NFFE and FEEA teamed up to dedicate a scholarship to the memory of their late board vice president, and our beloved national president, Richard N. Brown.

Enter Now for the 2010 IAM Newsletter and Website Competition!

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 CST

The IAM is now accepting entries to its annual Newsletter and Website Contest, a competition that awards excellence in both print and digital labor journalism. The contest is open to all locals and districts in good standing that have regularly distributed publications for its members and/or regularly updated websites.

NFFE National Office Closed Thursday, February 11

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 CST

The NFFE National Office will be closed on Thursday, February 11th. However, National staff and officers will be working from home, and available to conduct normal business via phone or email.

Legislative Director Erwin Discusses the Federal Workers Alliance on Federal News Radio

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 CST

This morning, NFFE Legislative Director Randy Erwin joined Fed Talk's Bill Bransford and other panel members on Federal News Radio to discuss the newly formed Federal Workers Alliance (FWA). Alongside fellow FWA founding members Matthew Biggs of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) and Michael Filler, Director for the Public Services Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Erwin discussed some of the FWA's highest legislative priorities...

Double your Donations to Help Haiti with Union Plus

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 CST

Survivors of the massive earthquake that struck Haiti need your help. The city is devastated. The number of dead and injured is estimated to be more than 100,000. Your donation will help rush life-saving relief supplies including food, clean water, medical supplies, blankets and tents to the Haitian people.

White House Calls for Discretionary Spending Freeze; Impact on Federal Workers Unclear

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 CST

In last night's State of the Union address, President Obama proposed a three-year discretionary spending freeze on federal funding that is not related to national security. For agencies not exempted from the budget freeze, it is too soon to tell what the impact for each will be. The freeze is proposed to take effect in Fiscal Year 2011.

NFFE Wins Election to Represent Forest Service Human Resource Management Employees

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 CST

Yesterday, employees in the U.S. Forest Service Human Resources Management (HRM) department in Albuquerque, NM voted in favor of representation by the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE). Nearly 65% of the bargaining unit turned out to vote yesterday, a very high turnout for a union election.

GSA Council Negotiating Team Prepares at the Winpisinger Center

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:00:00 CST

The popular Negotiation Preparation for Bargaining Committees class at the IAM's William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology got off to a busy start in 2010 when members of the NFFE-IAM GSA Council Negotiating Team met last week to prepare proposals for the upcoming contract negotiations with the General Services Administration (GSA).

National Office Announces the Launch of NFFE Facebook Page

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:00:00 CST

Today, the National Office is proud to announce the launch of the newest tool in its growing communications repertoire, the NFFE Facebook page. Facebook, a vast social networking site wherein individuals and groups can interact online, is a powerful tool for communications, organizing, and advocacy of all kinds.

National President Dougan Joins President Obama, Business Leaders, for Forum on Modernizing Government

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 CST

Thursday, NFFE National President William R. Dougan attended the White House Forum on Modernizing Government, an afternoon event focused on improving the efficiency of government services. Participating were some of the greatest minds in the federal and private sectors, including federal labor leaders, high-level agency executives, and more than 50 of the country's top CEO's.

New 'Federal Employee' Newsletter Now Available

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 CST

This year's fourth edition of NFFE's quarterly newsletter, the Federal Employee, is now available!

Washington Post-- "For many in Forest Service, benefits kept just out of reach"

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 00:00:00 CST

When it comes to providing employee benefits, Uncle Sam strives to be a model employer. But there's rust on his halo. Take a look at thousands of Forest Service workers who get no health and retirement benefits, despite years of service to the federal government.

Legislative Director Erwin Discusses 2009 Legislative Victories with Federal News Radio

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 00:00:00 CST

This morning, NFFE Legislative Director Randy Erwin sat down with Federal News Radio's Mike Causey to discuss some of the biggest victories federal employees on Capitol Hill this past year.

Covering issues such as the FERS sick leave benefit, the repeal of NSPS, and this year's pay adjustment, the nearly hour-long interview touched on a number of important issues impacting federal...

Register Now for 2010 Federal Employee Classes at the Winpisinger Center

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 00:00:00 CST

NFFE and the IAM Government Employees Department will hold a pair of "Federal Employees Basic Programs" on February 7-12, 2010 and March 14-19, 2010, at the William W. Winpisinger Center in Placid Harbour, Maryland.

NFFE Welcomes New General Counsel Stefan Sutich

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 CST

This week NFFE welcomes the newest member of the National Office staff, General Counsel Stefan Sutich. He succeeds NFFE's former General Counsel Susan Grundmann, who is now serving the Obama Administration as Chairman of the Merit Systems Protections Board.

Support Growing For Paid Parental Leave Bill

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:00:00 CST

At a Monday morning press conference on Capitol Hill, a number of family advocacy groups urged congressional support for the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act (FEPPLA), H.R.626/S.354, a bill that would extend four weeks of paid parental leave to federal workers caring for their recently born, adopted or fostered child.

Domestic Partnership Benefits Bill Advances in House

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 CST

The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Wednesday passed the Domestic Partnership Benefits and Obligations Act, H.R. 2517, a bill that would extend spousal benefits to same-sex partners of federal employees.

A Veterans Day Message from National President Dougan

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 CST

Veteran's Day is a day of celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. It provides an opportunity for us to remember and honor the sacrifices our veterans have made in defending our country and protecting the rights and privileges we all continue to enjoy.

Federal Workers in Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. Territories to get Pension Increase and Locality Pay

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 CST

Nearly 20 years after the passage of the Federal Employees Pay Comparability Act, legislation that established the federal locality pay structure but left those stationed in Alaska, Hawaii, and the U.S. territories out of the system, federal workers from these areas will soon be getting justly compensated for their service.

Legislative Director Erwin Talks the Issues on Federal News Radio

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 CST

Yesterday morning, NFFE Legislative Director Randy Erwin sat down with Federal News Radio's Mike Causey to discuss some of the latest developments for federal employees on Capitol Hill. Covering issues such as the FERS sick leave benefit, the repeal of NSPS, and this year's pay adjustment, the nearly hour-long interview touched on a number of important issues impacting federal workers.

With Defense Bill Passed, FERS Employees to Receive Retirement Credit for Unused Sick Leave

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CDT

This week, President Obama signed the 2010 National Defense Authorization Act. While a full repeal of the National Security Personnel System (NSPS) dominated headlines, one largely underreported aspect of the bill - and arguably one of the most important for federal employees throughout the civil service - was a provision extending credit for accrued sick leave to federal workers enrolled in the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS).

Senate Approves Defense Bill Repealing NSPS; Bill Advances to Obama's Desk

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Late Thursday, the Senate approved the final version of the 2010 Defense Authorization Act, advancing the key legislation to the White House for President Obama's approval. Passed by a margin of 68-29, the annual appropriations measure carries with it a series of crucial federal employee priorities that are sure to have a profound impact on the workforce in the coming years.

NFFE Locals Move Forward with New Organizing Plan; Seeing Gains

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Since its publication last month, there has been a great deal of discussion and enthusiasm regarding NFFE's new Organizing Strategic Plan. Many Locals have begun submitting questions and comments about the document, as well as specific organizing plans and targets for their Locals for the remainder of 2009 and beyond.

Domestic Partner Benefits Bill Gains Momentum in Senate

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Friday, the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs held a hearing on the Domestic Partnership Benefits and Obligations Act (S. 1102). Introduced this past May, the legislation would provide same-sex domestic partners of federal employees access to the same benefits as their heterosexual counterparts.

Certain VA Employees May be Eligible for Back Pay

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Current and former employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may be eligible for back pay. The United States Court of Federal Claims ruled that the VA should have paid certain employees the customary weekend premium pay of 25 percent, or night premium pay of 10 percent, whenever they used paid leave instead of working their weekend or evening shifts anytime from September 5, 1995 until now.

House Approves Defense Authorization Bill Repealing NSPS; Senate Nearing a Vote

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CDT

The House of Representatives passed the conference report on the FY 2010 Defense Authorization Act, which includes provisions to repeal the National Security Personnel System (NSPS) and convert the over 200,000 employees enrolled under the program back into existing pay systems.

One Giant Leap Forward for Federal Employees: 2010 Defense Authorization Act Conference Report Includes Slew of Federal Workforce Priorities

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Today, in a news release issued by the Senate Armed Services Committee, Chairman Carl Levin and Ranking Member John McCain announced the contents of the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Act conference report, which contained a series of crucial federal employee initiatives. The highlight of the report, and undoubtedly the greatest development for federal workers, is the provision repealing the National Security Personnel System (NSPS).

IAM Launches GoIAM 3.0 at 2009 Communications Conference

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Delegates from across the U.S. and Canada met in Vancouver, British Columbia, to discuss the union's strategy for staying on the forefront of 21st century communications.

NFFE Goes Green with New-Look Federal Employee

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 CDT

After months of hard work, today NFFE is proud to introduce the new and improved Federal Employee newsletter. Working in conjunction with our new printer, Harris Lithographics, NFFE has redesigned the Federal Employee to better reflect the union's brand and deliver a sleeker, more professional product to our current and potential members.

President Dougan Talks Pay Reform at Blacks in Government Conference

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Yesterday, NFFE National President William R. Dougan sat on a panel with several other federal employee representatives to discuss federal pay reform at the Blacks in Government (BIG) conference in Baltimore, Maryland.

NFFE Welcomes New National Business Representative David Stamey

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:00:00 CDT

This week, National President Dougan announced that David Stamey will become NFFE's newest National Business Representative, filling the slot vacated by now-Assistant Directing Business Representative James Davis. Stamey, a 21 year veteran of the federal workforce and 15 year NFFE member, holds extensive labor relations experience at the Local, Regional, and National Levels.

NFFE Local 1998, National Office, Win Big in 2009 IAM Communications Contest

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Recently, the IAM announced the winners of its annual Newsletter and Website Contest, a competition that honors excellence and innovation in both print and digital media. Out of a field of hundreds of Locals and Districts, one name appeared time and time again: NFFE-IAM.

Senate Unanimously Confirms FLRA Nominees

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Friday, the Senate confirmed by unanimous consent the appointments of Julia Akins-Clark as General Counsel and Ernest DuBester as Member to the Federal Labor Relations Authority. Both appointees have extensive backgrounds in federal labor relations, each having served federal employees in some capacity for nearly two decades.

Key Federal Workforce Initiatives Suffer Setback in Congress

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, an effort to advance several key federal workforce initiatives in Congress suffered a major setback after the amendment was withdrawn from consideration in the Senate's version of the Fiscal Year 2010 Defense Authorization bill.

House Takes Strong Stand Against NSPS

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDT

By a vote of 389-22, yesterday the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelming passed H.R. 2647, the 2010 Defense Authorization Act, containing an amendment that could spell the beginning of the end for the National Security Personnel System (NSPS).

Tobacco Bill Passes without Key Federal Retirement Provisions; NFFE Leadership Vows to Fight On

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDT

This past Friday, the House of Representatives voted 307-97 in favor of the Senate's version of H.R. 1256, the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, which lacked many critical provisions for federal employees. Passed by the chamber last Wednesday and then by the House the following Friday, the final version retained provisions addressing TSP reform, but lacked the additional retirement language included in the original version of the bill.

Washington Post -- "Struggling to Boost Forest Service Morale"

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDT

When cowboys and school kids sing "Home, home on the range. . . . Where seldom is heard a discouraging word," they probably aren't thinking about employees of the U.S. Forest Service. But on the nearly 200 million acres of forests and grasslands the service manages, there are plenty of discouraging words to be heard. The grumbling is so bad that the agency's low morale was the focus of a recent congressional hearing.

Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act Overwhelmingly Passes House

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Thursday evening, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 258-154 in favor of H.R. 626, the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act (FEPPLA). The bipartisan bill, sponsored by Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and cosponsored by 55 others, extends four weeks of paid leave to federal employees with a newly born, adopted, or fostered child.

Obama Administration Backs Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Wednesday, the Office of Management and Budget issued a Statement of Administration Policy in support of H.R. 626, the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act. The bill, introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), would extend four weeks of paid leave to federal employees caring for a newly born, adopted, or fostered child.

NFFE Local 2109 Hosts New York Congressmen at Watervliet Arsenal

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Last Friday, NFFE Local 2109 members welcomed Congressmen Paul Tonko (D-NY) and Scott Murphy (D-NY) to their facility, the Watervliet Arsenal in Watervliet, New York. Joined by NFFE National President Richard N. Brown, National Vice President Timothy Ostrowski and Assistant Directing Business Representative Bill Fenaughty, Local 2109 leadership engaged the Congressmen on the pressing issues facing arsenal employees.

Lobby Week 2009 a Huge Success

Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:00 CDT

This week, NFFE-IAM members from across the nation packed into the Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. for four days of networking, speeches, and political activism. Throughout the conference, NFFE members heard speeches from key figures in Congress and Labor, all the while lobbying their elected officials on the issues that affect them as federal employees.

DoD, OPM Release New Details on NSPS Review

Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:00 CDT

The office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense released new details concerning the pending review of the much-maligned National Security Personnel System. In the news release, Deputy Secretary of Defense William Lynn called on the Defense Business Board, an independent advisory body to the DoD Secretary on management issues, to assemble a task force to review the system.

Lobby Week 2009 has Arrived

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Today marks the beginning of Lobby Week 2009, as NFFE-IAM representatives from around the country descend on Washington, D.C. for the IAMAW's annual Legislative Conference. In the face of one of the most favorable political climates in years, NFFE members are ready and eager to stand up for their fellow federal employees. With federal employee friendly representatives in power at both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue, 2009 could prove to be one of the most important Lobby Weeks in years.

House Resolution Passed Honoring Public Servants

Fri, 08 May 2009 00:00:00 CDT

With Public Service Recognition Week in full swing, the House of Representatives passed H.R.299, a resolution honoring the contributions of millions of public servants nationwide. The bill, introduced by Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-MA), recognizes the often thankless tasks carried out by public employees every day.

House Committee Approves Federal Employee Parental Leave Bill

Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Wednesday, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee passed the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act, H.R. 626/S.354, a bill that will give federal workers a minimum of four weeks paid leave to care for a newly born, adopted, or fostered child. Under current law, expecting parents may take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for their newborn, forcing them to use sick and annual leave to make up for the lost time.

Bill Introduced Seeking Indefinite Freeze to Competitive Sourcing

Fri, 01 May 2009 00:00:00 CDT

This week on Capitol Hill, Senator Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) introduced a bill calling for an across the board suspension of public-private job competitions. The Correction of Longstanding Errors in Agencies Procurements Act (CLEAN UP Act), S. 924, also contains an in-sourcing provision urging agencies to bring contracted work back in-house to public employees.

OPM Director Introduces Plan to Increase Telework among Federal Employees

Fri, 01 May 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Director John Berry introduced this week his plan to jumpstart agency telework programs, giving tens of thousands of federal employees the opportunity to work from home. Today, only five percent of the 1.9 million workers employed by the federal government telework.

OPM Director Berry Testifies on the State of Federal Personnel Management

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Wednesday, recently confirmed Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Director John Berry made his first appearance before a Congressional committee as Director. Titled "Public Service in the 21st Century: An Examination of the State of the Federal Workforce," the hearing was focused on determining a new way forward for human resource management in government.

Lobby Week Approaching Fast; Delegate Questionnaires Due May 4th

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Lobby Week 2009, scheduled for May 11th-14th at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on Capitol Hill, promises to be one of the most important lobby weeks in years. With worker-friendly politicians taking over the White House and expanding their margins in both the House and Senate this past November, there are many new opportunities to make federal employees' agenda a priority. For nearly eight years, there has been no greater chance to exact positive change in the federal workforce than right now.

President Brown Submits Testimony to House Committee Urging Repeal of NSPS

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 CDT

NFFE National President Richard N. Brown submitted testimony to the House Armed Services Committee Subcommittee on Readiness regarding the future of the controversial National Security Personnel System (NSPS). The hearing was held in the wake of growing criticism of the system from federal employee unions and high-ranking members of Congress.

President Brown Meets with Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 00:00:00 CDT

This past Thursday, NFFE National President Richard N. Brown met with Deputy Secretary of Defense William Lynn at the Pentagon to discuss the future of the National Security Personnel System. Along with partners in labor, President Brown urged Deputy Secretary Lynn not to stand in the way of a potential repeal of the much maligned personnel system.

Non-Foreign Area Retirement Equity Assurance Act Approved by Senate Committee

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Last week, the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs approved the Non-Foreign Area Retirement Equity Assurance Act (Non-Foreign AREA Act), S.507, a bill that will extend locality pay to federal employees located outside of the 48 contiguous states. Under current law, federal employees working in Alaska, Hawaii, and the U.S. Territories receive a yearly COLA payment in lieu of the locality pay received by their mainland counterparts.

Federal Retirement Reform Act of 2009 Passes House

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:00:00 CDT

The House of Representatives passed HR. 1804, the Federal Retirement Reform Act of 2009, a bill that will give FERS employees credit for unused sick leave upon retiring and automatically enroll new hires in the Thrift Savings Plan. Sponsored by Rep. Edolphus Towns (D-NY), Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, the bill is essentially an amalgamation of numerous retirement policy bills that had been introduced earlier in the 111th Congress.

House and Senate Call for Pay Parity in FY 2010 Budget Resolutions

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Before departing for recess, both the House and Senate included language in their Fiscal Year 2010 budget resolutions endorsing pay parity between civilian and military federal employees. The language did not set a specific amount for the pay adjustment, instead asserting the intent of Congress to uphold the tradition of equality. The exact amount of the pay increase will be determined during the appropriations process, which will be underway once Congress reconvenes on April 20th.

John Berry Confirmed as Office of Personnel Management Director

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Late last week, the Senate confirmed John Berry as the next Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Berry brings with him to OPM decades of public service experience. As Legislative Director to Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD), Berry was instrumental in the formulation of the Federal Employees Pay Comparability Act of 1990, a bill that established locality pay for the federal workforce.

NFFE Organizing Efforts Progress; Members Urged to Participate

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Thanks to increased funding for federal agencies and a more labor-friendly environment, the National Federation of Federal Employees is currently facing one of the best organizing climates in years. Recognizing this, NFFE recently formulated and started carrying out a plan to capitalize on this opportunity and increase our membership.

FLAME Act Passes House; Crucial Wildfire Prevention Bill Now Moves on to Senate

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Yesterday, the House of Representatives passed legislation to establish an emergency federal fund to fight increasingly frequent catastrophic wildland fires. The bipartisan Federal Land Assistance, Management, and Enhancement Act (FLAME Act), H.R. 1404, will serve as a separate emergency fund to relieve the growing strain on existing agency budgets.

House Includes Pay Parity Language in FY 2010 Budget Resolution

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Yesterday, the House Budget Committee included language in its Fiscal Year 2010 budget resolution establishing pay parity between civilian and military federal employees. Introduced by Representatives Gerry Connolly (D-VA) and John Spratt (D-SC), the language does not request a fixed amount for next year's federal pay adjustment, which will instead be determined through budget proceedings.

Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act Approved; Moves on to Full Committee

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 CDT

Earlier today, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Federal Workforce, Post Office, and the District of Columbia passed the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act of 2009 (FEPPLA), H.R. 626, a bill that would grant federal employees four weeks of paid leave when caring for a newly born or adopted child.

NSPS Conversions Put on Hold Pending DoD, OPM Review; President Richard N. Brown's Statement

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:00 CDT

After years of fierce opposition from NFFE and other federal employee unions, the beginning of the end of NSPS may be in sight. In a DoD press release issued earlier this week, Deputy Secretary of Defense William Lynn announced that DoD will delay any further conversions of defense workers into NSPS, pending an extensive review of the much-maligned personnel system.

Employee Free Choice Act Reintroduced: Ask Your Elected Leaders to Support EFCA Now!

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 CDT

On March 10, Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA) and Rep. George Miller (D-CA) reintroduced the Employee Free Choice Act (H.R. 1409/S. 560), a bill that will restore Americans' right to organize and join a union without being subject to harassment by their employers. The Employee Free Choice Act will strengthen penalties against employers who break the law during union organizing campaigns.

NFFE National President Richard N. Brown's Statement on Nomination of John Berry as Director of OPM

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:00:00 CST

"The National Federation of Federal Employees strongly supports the nomination of John Berry as Director of the Office of Personnel Management. His stellar record of public service and employee relations make him an excellent choice for the position. Berry has a wealth of executive leadership experience from his time at the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the National Zoo.

Obama Signs Stimulus Bill: Much-needed Resources Headed to Federal Agencies

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 CST

This week, President Barack Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, also known as the stimulus bill, a bold action that is intended to stimulate the slumping economy and create millions of jobs for American workers. Tuesday's signing is the culmination of a knock-down, drag-out battle on Capitol Hill to reach a workable compromise on the stimulus package.

Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act Reintroduced in House and Senate

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 00:00:00 CST

Last week, Sen. Jim Webb (D-VA) introduced the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act (S. 354), a bill that would amend the 1993 Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to provide all federal employees with four weeks of paid parental leave when caring for a newly born or adopted child. The same legislation was also introduced in the House by Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY). The House version is bill number H.R. 626.

NFFE Elected to Represent Professional Employees at Forest Service Regional Office

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 00:00:00 CST

Professional employees at the U.S. Forest Service's Eastern Region Regional Office, located in Milwaukee, WI, chose NFFE as their exclusive bargaining representative. The non-professional employees working from the office were already represented by NFFE Local 2165 prior to the election process, but the local now represents both the professional and non-professional employees who work in that office and at remote locations.