Contractual improvements secured to the AFGE-SSA Telework Article 41!

The Union recently negotiated improved protections to this Article. These changes became effective on November 27, 2024, with the approval of the agency head, Martin O’Malley. Here are the highlights we will soon see incorporated into the contractual language:

1. The current number of telework days, eligible positions, and percentages of employees permitted to telework will remain effective through the duration of our current contract, October 25, 2029.
2. Although management retains sole discretion to change, reduce, or suspend telework for operational needs, the new language specifies that any such changes will be temporary.
3. Episodic telework improvements:
   1. Requests can be made at any time for personal circumstances.
   1. The language for denials of episodic telework was strengthened to specify the basis of “bona fide operational needs.”
   1. Management agreed to provide an employee with a specific reason, in writing on the Telework Program Request and Agreement, whenever an episodic telework request is denied.
   1. The option to split a workday between the ADS and the ODS can now be made by employees. If the request is denied, the employee may request an explanation to which management must respond.
4. Section 11 in this Article was eliminated, to reduce the possibility that the Agency could legally make significant changes while the contract remains in effect.

While these improved contractual protections for bargaining unit employees are welcomed, we will need to remain vigilant to confront any threats of nullification through legislative or executive branches.

Every bargaining unit employee needs to be vigilant to take action against threats to the Social Security Administration and other domestic programs that benefit the American public in addition to attacks on the protections and benefits afforded to Social Security employees and other federal employees.

One of the earliest actions that may impact the Union, is a statutory change that will prohibit agencies from deducting Union dues from paychecks. The local is preparing to roll out a secure, electronic dues payment alternative. Find out more at our next local membership meeting on December 11 at 6:00pm below.

Other important business matters are planned for our next local membership meeting on December 11, 2024 at 6:00pm CST. At that meeting, members have an opportunity to weigh in on our fiscal 2025 budget and a small increase in dues that will partially adjust for inflationary pressures. Bargaining Unit employees deserve a strong Union and a working budget and dues increase will help keep the organization ready to fight new and on-going attacks on our rights and benefits.  To request materials for this meeting, email afge1395@afge1395.org with subject line “Membership Meeting Documents Request”.

AFGE Monthly Membership Meeting 12/11/2024 6pm Zoom Link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82128943665?pwd=Ylp4cjFNeXgrNk5iMnpXdDAwNWY3dz09

If you are not yet a member of the American Federation of Government Employees, we need you to join us! We know that we will need everyone’s support to protect ourselves and the customers we serve. We need your help at our monthly membership meetings and other activities we are planning. It’s easy to join! Just contact us via email or phone for details.

For our current members, we appreciate your support of federal workers, the public, and the larger labor force. Make sure AFGE has your most up-to-date contact information, so you can timely get the latest developments and news as well as action opportunities to show your support and effectuate positive change.