VA Council of Consolidated Locals
VAC CONTRACT - INTENT PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY
On September 7, 2011 the NFFE Negotiating Team will meet in Washington DC for the purposes of establishing an Intent Session and to prepare materials for the new NFFE collective bargaining agreement. Implementation date is tentatively set for January 15, 2012 with Local officer and LMR training set shortly thereafter.
PEER REVIEW UNDER 38 USC -- A Fair Process?
For years Veterans Administration providers have had to endure a Peer Review process riddled with the malignancy of local inefficiencies leaving in many instances no due process afforded to the VA healthcare provider. Under President Obama, 38 USC 7422 is being addressed however the process has met resistance in VA and is very slow. A recent MOU signed by Labor Unions with VA is a poor substitute for the outright abolishment of the antiquated legislation known as 38 USC 7422. Sham Peer Reviews are regrettably a growing epidemic within VA and they threaten not only employee rights but care for veterans. Although VA says it wants to provide the best care for our wounded warriors, 38 USC 7422 is a contradiction and must be abolished. SHAM PEER REVIEW
UNION REVENUE - Your Dues at work
This year, NFFE FD-1 absorbed the mandatory IAM dues hike. At a time when Federal Employees wages have been frozen for the second year, our benefits are under attack and health premiums going through the roof, it is heartening to see somebody understands that Federal unionists are different than our private sector affiliate. We cannot strike, do not have our pay bargained for, do not have our benefits bargained for, Union Officials receive pay and benefits from the Federal Government at no cost to our parent Union. Local Officers and Stewards, you are a great investment. Congratulations VA VA Council Locals, you have grown through organizing and will provide an estimated $600,000.00 to the Machinists Union, with a .49 cents tax this year going directly to the IAMAW, not your Federal unionists.
ONGOING ISSUES
National Labor-Management Council
VA National Partnership Council- VBA Pilot 7106 (b).