Federal Workforce News
FLRA’s DuBester Speaks!
FLRA's Quietest Member, Ernest DuBester, recently dissented in a case involving a union proposal calling for increased fortification of Social Security offices (Wait until you read the proposal…
Labor Relations
Stay informed on the latest developments in federal labor relations, including updates on collective bargaining, union negotiations, FLRA decisions, labor‑management disputes, and federal workforce policies that shape the rights and responsibilities of federal employees. Find news and analysis on AFGE, NTEU and other federal unions, bargaining agreements, workplace rules, and major actions affecting labor relations across federal agencies. Find clear insights into how evolving labor policies impact the federal workforce and agency operations.
Federal Workforce News
DC Circuit Hears Oral Arguments on Appeal of Two FLRA Decisions
These cases involve both a union and Agency appeal FLRA decisions involving its controversial reinstitution of an "abrogation" test that, in essence, nullifies the Agency Head Review of…
Agency News
What is Going on at FAA?
Since our article concerning secret FAA NATCA negotiations was posted various FedSmith authors and editors have gotten emails (other than the comments already posted), saying that we missed…
Federal Workforce News
Labor and Employee Relations Highlights of 2011
Each new year, we take a look back to determine whether those who labor in the public interest and get in trouble have gotten smarter or tell a…
Court Cases
Striving for 85% Accuracy
Is a performance standard reasonable where it requires that a Veterans Affairs rating specialist achieve at least 85 percent accuracy? In Fisher v. Department of Veterans Affairs (C.A.F.C.…
Federal Workforce News
President Extends Labor Relations Council Until 2013
The President has extended the Labor Relations Council until 2013 via a recent executive order.
Federal Workforce News
OPM Releases Hilarious Union Official Time Report
The author suggestions that anyone in need of a good laugh should read OPM's recent report on union official time use in the government.
Pay & Benefits
Politics, Federal Unions and Avoiding the Federal Pay Freeze at the FAA
Are there secret negotiations going on between the FAA and a union to preserve future salary increases and the "official time" given to union representatives?
Federal Workforce News
FLRA’s Attempt to Gut Agency Head Review Goes to Court
The statutory right of an agency head to review an agreement before it is implemented has been eliminated by the FLRA. The case is now going to court.
Court Cases
Removal for Hefty Award Check from Outside Organization Hits A Snag
An Interior Department economist was bestowed with a $383,600 award by a group the employee assisted in bringing a successful false claims action involving underpayment by oil companies.…