Analyzing AFGE’s Proposals for a Grievance Procedure

The author offers an analysis of AFGE proposals made relatively recently in a national contract negotiation. The Analysis points out issues Agencies should consider when negotiating such language. This is timely in light of FLRA decisions suggesting that agencies should extend extra effort in protecting their prerogatives by its expansion of arbitrator authority.

If You Don’t Want Medicare Part A–Too Bad Says Court to Federal Retirees

A federal court decision will have repercussions for federal retirees who prefer to keep their health benefits program in retirement rather than go under Medicare Part A (hospitalization) coverage. To avoid using Medicare Part A, the court rules they will have to give up Social Security benefits and repay all Social Security benefits received.

Unprecedented Federal Employee Union Empowerment Underway at Federal Level

Executive Orders about Federal employees rarely get much media coverage. In his first year, the president issued an executive order that broadened the involvement of Federal employee unions in agencies. While the events in Wisconsin point out concerns about public employee union power, the Administration has required Agencies to involve Federal employee unions in virtually all government decisions.