NATIONAL POSTAL MAIL HANDLERS UNION LOCAL 303
A DIVISION OF LABORERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA, AFL-CIO
SERVING AND ORGANIZING SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA & LAS VEGAS NEVADA
W E L C O M E
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DECEMBER 20, 2024
Statement of NPMHU National President Paul V. Hogrogian
on Passage of the Social Security Fairness Act
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union has been fighting the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and advocating for all postal retirees with repeal of both of these bad policies with the Social Security Fairness Act for the past twenty years.
GPO and WEP were developed in the 1970s to compensate for public sector retirement programs that do not utilize Social Security benefits – including postal employees within the Civil Service Retirement System – in order to ensure retirees were not taking advantage of the system. However, provisions of the policy have created a funding gap for those who also worked in the private sector where they earned Social Security, or if their spouse earned Social Security benefits.
This created an undue burden for many spouses and widows. A Social Security widow's benefit is reduced by $2 for every $3 earned if the widow is eligible for a pension based on a public sector job that was not covered by Social Security.
Additionally, inequity created by WEP reduced the Social Security benefits postal retirees receive based on the number of years they served in the United States Postal Service that did not require their payment of Social Security taxes, affecting nearly one million Social Security beneficiaries.
Over 2 million beneficiaries are affected by the WEP while over 723,000 people are affected by the GPO, including myself.
The NPMHU is grateful for the work of Representatives Garret Graves of Louisiana and Abigail Spanberger of Virginia, and Senators Sherrod Brown and Susan Collins of Maine for sponsoring this legislation, and their relentless work on the issue. It is because of their dedication, NPMHU retirees can enjoy their retirement knowing their spouses and dependents will have the full benefits they earned during their long careers.
DECEMBER 16, 2024
DECEMBER 10, 2024
The Mail Handler Winter 2024
DECEMBER 06, 2024
USPS Extends Open Season For AL Exchange,
Flexible Spending, & USPS Non-Career Plans
Open Season Extension Announcement
The Postal Service’s Open Seasons for Annual Leave Exchange, Flexible Spending and USPS non-career plans will be extended through December 13, matching OPM’s granting of the Open Season extension for PSHB enrollment.
DECEMBER 05, 2024
OPM Extends Open Season
for the Postal Service Health Benefits Program (PSHBP)
Open Season Extension Announcement
In order to provide Postal Service employees and Postal Service annuitants with additional time to review and/ or change their health insurance enrollment during this inaugural Postal Service Health Benefits Program (PSHBP) year, OPM is extending Open Season through Friday, December 13, 2024, for the PSHBP.
This extension does not include the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program or FSAFEDS.
DECEMBER 2024 UPDATE
NOVEMBER 27, 2024
NOVEMBER 25, 2024
NPMHU SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (2025-2026)
NPMHU ARTHUR S. VALLONE NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union is pleased to offer the opportunity for career craft members of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, and members of their immediate families, to apply for scholarship assistance from the NPMHU Arthur S. Vallone National Scholarship Program. Specific eligibility requirements for the program are detailed below. |
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NOVEMBER 22, 2024
NPMHU Requests OPM Extend Open Season
for Postal Employees to December 16th
I am writing on behalf of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union. We represent over 50,000 postal employees and annuitants who are participating in the new Postal Service Health Benefits Program (“PSHBP”).
As you know, PSHBP Open Season started Monday, November 11th. From that beginning, participants have experienced numerous technical issues with its online Open Season resources. These issues have impeded the ability of participants to access the online site and to submit their registration for the upcoming year.
The most significant problem has been the inability of Postal employees to utilize Login.gov and, in particular, that Login.gov has failed in many instances to link employees’ postal and OPM identities and accounts. As a result, even ignoring incomplete or inaccurate plan information, employees are unable to enroll in any PSHBP plan electronically. The work-around the Postal Service has devised of calling PSHB Helpline is itself going to add uncertainty and delays to the enrollment process which negatively impacts the PSHBP carriers being able to complete their work before January 1st.
These serious and persistent problems are preventing postal employees and annuitants from enrolling in PSHB plans. Indeed, OPM has announced another round of system updates to Login.gov for this coming weekend. This situation is unacceptable, and we are calling for a brief extension to Open Season to ensure that employee have sufficient time to effectuate their enrollment. OPM has extended Open Season in prior years for far less impactful issues. Where, as here, the problems are literally preventing participant enrollment, extending Open Season for PSHBP participants is both necessary and warranted.
We therefore strongly urge OPM to extend Open Season for PSHBP participants by one week from Monday, December 9th to Monday, December 16th.
Paul V. Hogrogian
President
National Postal Mail Handlers
Extending Open Season for Postal Employees to December 16th (pdf)
NOVEMBER 19, 2024
Wage Charts Effective November 16, 2024 Effective November 16, 2024 (PP 25-2024)
NOVEMBER 11, 2024
Dear Brothers and Sisters, On this Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, we send our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to those brave men and women who serve and have served their countries. Please take a moment and thank the veterans in your life for their service. Our veterans have earned our gratitude and honor and we owe it to them to continue to cherish and protect the freedoms that they have so courageously fought to preserve.
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We wish you a happy, healthy, and safe Veterans and Remembrance Day.
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NOVEMBER 06, 2024
AFL-CIO President on the 2024 Election Results
Presidential administrations change, but the labor movement’s values do not. We stand for the freedom to organize and for the right to collectively bargain. We stand for solidarity—the kind that is built when working people stand together to take on the biggest, richest bosses and the most powerful extremist politicians. Most importantly, we know how to fight back when anyone comes after our freedoms.
This result is a blow for every worker who depends on our elected leaders to fight for our jobs, our unions and our contracts. We organized for months to produce a nearly 17-point advantage for Vice President Kamala Harris with union members. But it is clear that the economic struggle working-class people are facing is causing real pain and neither party has sufficiently addressed it.
Now we are faced with the reality of a second Donald Trump term. The Project 2025 agenda promises to dismantle labor unions because we are a pillar of democracy and a check on power. We’ve seen assaults on our fundamental rights before. In the days, months, and years ahead, labor’s task will be to defend working people when it happens again. The labor movement gives voice and clarity to the struggles of working people—that’s what we do, and what we’ve always done.
Every workplace we organize is a victory for democracy. Every contract we bargain for is a step toward a fairer economy. Every strike is a lesson for rich bosses that they can’t keep the working class down. No one—not Donald Trump or JD Vance, nor any one CEO—can stop solidarity.
Organized labor is the path forward. In unions, people have power to build a stable foundation for themselves and their families. To say, “It’s Better in a Union,” is not simply a slogan—it’s the way to level the playing field and create a path to economic security for every working person. The nearly 13 million union members of the AFL-CIO won’t be divided and we won’t back down. We will be there for each other and we will fight every step of the way for every worker in this country, no matter who sits in the Oval Office.
Statement of Brent Booker, General President of the Laborers’ International Union of North America
“Disappointment, yes — despair, never. We will hold the President-Elect accountable to working men and women and stand ready to work with him and all elected officials to create real opportunities for our members”
Washington, D.C. (Nov. 6, 2024) — Brent Booker, General President of LIUNA — the Laborers’ International Union of North America — made the following statement today regarding the election:
With millions of contacts — member-to-member on jobsites, in homes and union halls, at rallies and community events, through social media, email and mail — LIUNA powered a massive, sophisticated election effort.
We are proud of our members and of our leaders, whose tireless work was driven by a passion for our country, faith in the power of unions to improve lives, belief in facts and truth, and an unwavering confidence in decency, character, and cooperation.
Although the President-Elect’s actions are riddled with attacks on working people and their unions, as patriots we nonetheless congratulate him and accept the election results. Disappointment, yes — despair, never. We will hold the President-Elect accountable to working men and women and stand ready to work with him and all elected officials to create real opportunities for our members.
The machine we built will live on and grow stronger as we fight to protect investment in our critical infrastructure, fight to defend policies that support good wages and benefits, and fight for the fundamental freedom to join a union.
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE (NOVEMBER 2024)
OCTOBER 29, 2024
OCTOBER 25, 2024
OCTOBER 24, 2024
OCTOBER 23, 2024
OCTOBER 22, 2024
OCTOBER 21, 2024
OCTOBER 18, 2024
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE (OCTOBER 2024)
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OCTOBER 3, 2024
MAIL HANDLER MAGAZINE (Special 2024 Convention Edition)
SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 (FROM THE NALC CONVENTION AUG 5-9 2024)
SEPTEMBER 25, 2024
National Arbitration Decision: PostalEase Fraud
We are writing to inform you of a recent national arbitration decision issued by Arbitrator Dennis Nolan in a grievance brought by the National Association of Letter Carriers, which concerned the Postal employees who did not receive their paychecks as a result of the breach of the Postal Service’s PostalEase system. The NPMHU also filed a grievance on this issue, and the NPMHU (along with the APWU) intervened in the NALC grievance.
By way of background, on December 20, 2022, the Union received notification from the Postal Service that some Postal Service employees had unknowingly provided their usernames and passwords to criminal websites while attempting to access PostalEase. We were told that employees had been using Google to access PostalEase and that Google in turn was redirecting them to third party criminally run websites that mirrored the look and access of PostalEase. When employees entered in their login credentials on to those websites, it allowed the criminals to steal that information and therefore compromise the employees’ accounts. The criminals were then able to go to the official PostalEase site, use the employees’ login credentials and add allotments that were then deducted from the employees’ checks. These added allotments were sent to various bank accounts which were set up by the criminals allowing them to withdraw all the funds.
The primary argument advanced by all three Unions was that, when the Postal Service erroneously transferred moneys meant to be paid to employees as wages to unknown third parties, the Postal Service failed in its obligations under the National Agreement to pay employees for the work they performed. The NPMHU’s brief also focused on the real steps the Postal Service could have – but failed to – take that could have reduced the possibility that this criminal activity would have affected so many Postal employees, including implementing standard security measures and not waiting months after learning of this criminal attack to notify Unions and Postal employees that it was occurring.
Arbitrator Nolan rejected these arguments, dismissing the steps that the Postal Service could have taken as a series of “should-haves” or an application of 20-20 “hindsight.” With respect to the question of whether the National Agreement requires the Postal Service to “make sure the employees actually receive the direct deposit money,” or is it enough for the Postal Service to “make a direct deposit in the bank account on record,” Arbitrator Nolan stated it “could fairly be applied either way.” Because the Unions had the burden of proof, Arbitrator Nolan denied the grievance.
We are disappointed in Arbitrator Nolan’s ruling, and we will continue to raise with the Postal Service its obligations to ensure that Postal employees can have confidence in the security of the online systems the Postal Service requires them to use. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any questions.
RE: National Arbitration Decision: PostalEase Fraud (pdf)
SEPTEMBER 20, 2024
NPMHU Honored by the Department of Labor for over a Century of Service
On Sept. 17, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor paid tribute to nine labor unions that have fought for workers’ rights for more than 100 years by inducting them into our Century of Service Honor Roll of American Labor Organizations.
Watch fellow Union members, inlcuding a few of our own NPMHU members, share what being in a Union means to them and their vision of the future of work. Honoring a Century of Service (video).
The Century of Service exhibit is located in the North Plaza of the U.S. Department of Labor's Frances Perkins Building, 200 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, D.C. It features a series of panels with each union's seal or logo.
The exhibit currently commemorates the centennials of more than 50+ labor unions across North America. Additional labor organizations will be added to the Honor Roll as they reach their one-hundredth anniversary.
The Department of Labor acknowledges the unparalleled contributions made by the labor movement and recognizes the legacy unions have had in building the U.S. economy and middle class.
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SEPTEMBER 17, 2024
National Voter Registration Day
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The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy. It’s the beating heart of our country’s civil rights—and our labor movement.
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So we have two important questions for you.
1. Will you take a moment to review the voter registration deadlines in your state?
Find information about your state’s voting laws and deadlines through our partner Ballot Ready.
2. Will you make sure your voter registration is correct and up to date? Or, register to vote for the first time. We have all the tools you need on our website:
betterinaunion.org/register
It’s important to check your voter status early, so you don’t miss any registration deadlines and are ready when Election Day rolls around.
Thank you for getting ready to vote in November! Our vote is our voice, and we’ll need every voice during this election to make sure we protect our contract, our jobs, and our freedoms.
In Solidarity,
Team AFL-CIO
SEPTEMBER 16, 2024
Over the past two national election cycles, the United States Postal Service, Mail Handlers and all postal employees have shown dedication to American democracy.
In the 2018 midterm elections, 30.4 million votes out of 120.3 million total votes cast were mail-in or absentee ballots. However, during the 2020 election season, the Postal Service saw an increased use of vote-by-mail in all states due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, USPS processed and delivered 135 million ballots to and from voters. Despite this drastic increase, Mail Handlers and our fellow postal brothers and sisters delivered 97.9% of ballots within 3 days and 99.7% of ballots within 5 days.
These numbers improved during the 2022 elections: 98.96% of ballots were delivered within 3 days and 99.82% were delivered within 5 days. I have the utmost confidence in the Postal Service for providing a secure and reliable election process. Make no mistake, any allegations that the Postal Service is not capable of delivering mail-in ballots are unfounded and only work to undermine the democratic process.
SEPTEMBER 12, 2024
SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
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It is with great sadness that the NPMHU Local 303 announces the death of beloved Mail Handler and leader Christopher Mark Gayles. “Chris” passed away on August 26, 2024, in Palmdale, CA.
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The family would like to share that visitation will be on 9/13/2024, 9:00 am at Eternal Valley Memorial Park & Mortuary. 23284 North Sierra Hwy Newhall, CA 91321.
Funeral services will be held Friday, September 13, 2024, at Eternal Valley Memorial Park and Mortuary with Pastor Steven Davies officiating. Burial will follow at Eternal Valley Memorial Park. Arrangements are by Eternal Valley Memorial Park.
SEPTEMBER 09, 2024
Official Call for Bargaining Proposals (2025 National Agreement)
SEPTEMBER 2024 MAIL HANDLER UPDATE
SEPTEMBER 04, 2024
Brent Booker, LiUNA General President, Speaks at DNC
AUGUST 26, 2024
NPMHU National Convention Day 4
AUGUST 22, 2024
NPMHU National Convention Day 3
AUGUST 20, 2024
NPMHU National Convention Day 2
AUGUST 19, 2024
NPMHU National Convention Day 1
AUGUST 18, 2024
AUGUST 15, 2024
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) set at $978
Effective September 7, 2024 (Pay Period 20-2024), all career Mail Handler craft employees are scheduled to receive a cost-of-living (COLA) adjustment as outlined in Article 9.3 of the 2022 National Agreement. This is the fourth of six possible COLA increases under the terms of the current agreement. This COLA increase is based on the upward change in the relevant Consumer Price Index (CPI) following release of the July 2024 Index, using the July 2022 CPI index as a base. The resulting calculation provides an annual increase of $978 for all Steps in Table 1 and for Step P of Table 2. The remaining Steps in Table 2 will receive the proportional COLA increase percentages as outlined in Article 9.3 of the National Agreement.
Wage Charts coming soon
JULY 31, 2024
JULY 29, 2024
JULY 2024 MAIL HANDLER UPDATE
ARE YOU READY FOR THE 2024 ELECTION?
The 2024 elections are approaching quicker than you think, and the National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU) encourages all of its members to ensure they are registered to vote. The easiest way to check on your voter registration is to visit the non-partisan website, vote.org. There, you can verify your voter registration, register to vote, apply to vote by mail, and learn more about your state’s election laws.
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Enjoy the festivities, stay safe, and take pride in the work we do every day to build a stronger America.
Fraternally yours,
Brent Booker
General President
JULY 01, 2024
THE MAIL HANDLER MAGAZINE (SPRING 2024)
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JUNE 2024 MAIL HANDLER UPDATE
JUNE 11, 2024
NEW MOU ANNUAL LEAVE CARRYOVER (LEAVE YEAR 2024) /ANNUAL LEAVE EXCHANGE OPTION 2025
MEMORIAL DAY 2024
This Memorial Day, we honor the brave women and men who made the ultimate sacrifice for our Nation’s freedom. We recommit to keeping our sacred obligation to their survivors, families, and caregivers. Together, we vow to honor their memories by carrying on their work to forge a more perfect Union.
The White House
MAY 2024 MAIL HANDLER UPDATE
MAY 10, 2024
Mail Handlers to Receive Night Shift Differential Increase
May 10, 2024- As provided for in Article 8.7 of the NPMHU 2022 National Agreement, effective May 18, 2024 (PP12-24); the flat dollar amount at Steps A through P at each pay grade for night shift differential in Tables Three and Four shall be increased by 1.5%, the flat dollar amount at Steps A of Table 3 and Steps BB and AA for Table Four through P at each pay grade for night shift differential in Tables Three and Four shall be increased by 2.0%. All increases will be applied to the most recent night shift differential table preceding the increase. The increase is applicable for time worked between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. This is the second of three Night Shift Differential increases negotiated in the 2022 National Agreement.
MAY 01 2024
APRIL 29, 2024
APRIL 2024
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE APRIL 2024
APRIL 12, 2024
APRIL 09, 2024
I am pleased to announce that the NPMHU-USPS Joint Contract Interpretation Manual (CIM) Version 6 has been completed and is being released today. The printing of the hard copy of the CIM is underway. The electronic (pdf) version has been released today, and is posted on the National website under the Member Resources tab.
The National Office will be bulk-shipping printed CIM 6 Manuals to each Local Union Headquarters.
The number of CIM’s shipped to each Local Headquarters will include one CIM for each identified Union Representative, with additional copies for future Shop Stewards.
The Contract Administration Department is currently working diligently “linking” each source document referenced in the CIM to the actual citation in the manual. When CIM Version 6 with resources is complete, the National Office will post the CIM Version 6 with resources on the National website, where it shall be available on MAILS.
THE MAIL HANDLER WINTER 2024
MARCH 15, 2024
Uniform and Work Clothes Annual Allowance Carry Over
Effective March 13, 2024 the following provision of Article 26, Section 26.3 of the 2022 National Agreement will be implemented:
Unused portions of an eligible employee’s annual allowance for uniform and work clothing will be carried over and available for use beginning twelve (12) months after the end of each anniversary year. An eligible employee’s uniform and work clothing allowance balance may not exceed the sum of two (2) years of the employee’s annual allowance entitlement. This uniform and work clothing program adjustment will be implemented no later than twelve (12) months from the ratification date of the 2022 Agreement.
Any unused portion of an eligible employee’s annual allowance starting 3/13/2024 will be accumulated and will be reflected in the employee’s uniform allowance accounts starting 03/13/2025 at the end of each of their anniversary year.
MARCH 2024 MAIL HANDLER UPDATE
FEBRUARY 22, 2024 (UPDATED SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION PACKAGE)
| NPMHU LOCAL 303 2024/2025 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION |
LEGISLATIVE SCORECARD (2023)
This voting record lets you know where your lawmakers stand on issues important to working families, including strengthening Social Security and Medicare, freedom to join a union, improving workplace safety and more.
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE FEBRUARY 2024
FEBRUARY 15, 2024
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) set at $353
Effective March 9, 2024 (Pay Period 07-2024), all career Mail Handler craft employees are scheduled to receive a cost-of-living (COLA) adjustment as outlined in Article 9.3 of the 2022 National Agreement.
This is the third of six possible COLA increases under the terms of the current agreement. This COLA increase is based on the upward change in the relevant Consumer Price Index (CPI) following release of the January 2024 Index, using the July 2022 CPI index as a base.
The resulting calculation provides an annual increase of $353 for all Steps in Table 1 and for Step P of Table 2. The remaining Steps in Table 2 will receive the proportional COLA increase percentages as outlined in Article 9.3 of the National Agreement.
Updated wage charts to be provided soon.
| WAGE CHARTS PP 07-2024 |
FEBRUARY 13, 2024
RESOLUTIONS AND PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
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JANUARY 26, 2024
UNIFORM AND WORK CLOTHES ALLOWANCE CARRY OVER (EFFECTIVE MAR 13, 2024)
JANUARY 26, 2024
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE JANUARY 2024
JANUARY 12, 2024
THE MAIL HANDLER MAGAZINE (FALL 2023)
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MAIL HANDLER UPDATE (DECEMBER 2023)
DECEMBER 01, 2023
AFL-CIO UNION MADE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
UPDATED 2023 NATIONAL AGREEMENT WAGE CHARTS EFFECTIVE NOV 18, 2023
| WAGE CHART 11/18/23 |
NOVEMBER 21, 2023
NOVEMBER 13, 2023
NOVEMBER 8, 2023
MOU: Sorting and Delivery Centers (S&DC) Staffing
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NOVEMBER 3, 2023
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE (OCTOBER 2023)
SEPTEMBER 26, 2023
2022 NATIONAL AGREEMENT DISTRIBUTIONThe formatting and review of the 2022 National Agreement has been completed and sent to the printer.
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THE MAIL HANDLER MAGAZINE SUMMER 2023
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MAIL HANDLER UPDATE (SEPTEMBER 2023)
SEPTEMBER 11, 2023 |
SEPTEMBER 1, 2023 |
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AUGUST 29, 2023
AUGUST, 25, 2023
RETROACTIVE SALARY ADJUSTMENTS DELAYED
AUGUST 18, 2023
USPS ISSUES CRAFT DETERMINATION
HIGH OUTPUT PARCEL SORTER (HOPS)
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE (AUGUST 2023)
AUGUST 10, 2023
COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT (COLA) SET AT $978
Effective August 26, 2023 (PayPeriod 19-2023), all career mail handler craft employees are scheduled to receive a cost-of-living (COLA) adjustment as outlined in Article 9.3 of the 2022 National Agreement. This is the second of six possible COLA increases under the terms of the current agreement. This COLA increase is based on the upward change in the relevant Consumer Price Index (CPI) following release of the July 2023 Index, using the July 2022 CPI index as a base. The resulting calculation provides an annual increase of $978 for all Steps in Table1 and for Step P of Table 2. The remaining Steps in Table 2 will receive the proportional COLA increase percentages as outlined in Article 9.3 of the National Agreement.
JULY 20, 2023
USPS ISSUES UPDATES FOR USER GUIDE AND FAQs TO ENROLL AND SIGN IN TO LITEBLUE WITH MULTIFACTOR AUTHENTICATION (MFA)
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE (JULY 2023)
JULY 4, 2023
JUNE 30, 2023
U.S. SUPREME COURT DECISION IN GROFF v. DEJOY
JUNE 2023
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE TWO NPMHU SCHOLARSHIP SELECTEES
FROM LOCAL 303 ANAHEIM P&DC AND SAN DIEGO P&DC FAMILIES
ANAHEIM |
SAN DIEGO |
JUNE 2023 MAIL HANDLER UPDATE |
THE MAIL HANDLER (SPRING 2023) |
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MAY 26, 2023
MAY 17, 2023
Watch Postmaster General Louis Dejoy at House Oversight Committee.
Skip ahead in video to approximate time frame: (Click play and drag cursor to 2:28.35)
to see Congresswoman Barragan engage the PMG on the Carson California International Service Center.
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE MAY 2023
MAY 9, 2023
MAY 9, 2023 MOU ANNUAL LEAVE CARRYOVER FOR LEAVE YEAR 2024
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MAY 1, 2023
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APRIL 28, 2023
APRIL 21, 2023
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Dear Sisters and Brothers:
On Tuesday April 18, 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral argument in the lawsuit Groff V. Dejoy. The case was brought by Gerald Groff, who delivered mail as a Rural Carrier Associate (RCA) from 2012 to 2019 in central Pennsylvania. Groff is a Christian who observes Sunday as the Sabbath, so he was not available to work on Sundays.
When Groff started as an RCA, no mail was delivered on Sunday, so Groff's observance of a Sunday Sabbath did not pose any issue. In 2013, however, the Postal Service and Amazon agreed to Sunday delivery of certain packages. The schedule for Sunday work is governed by an MOU, which is intended to ensure an equitable rotation of Sunday work. Citing his religious beliefs, Groff consistently refused to work on Sundays. For several years, Groff and the Postal Service attempted to find workarounds, such as having volunteers take over his Sunday slots. Eventually, however, the Postal Service began disciplining Groff for his refusal to work on Sundays, and in 2019, Groff resigned.
After resigning, Groff sued the Postal Service. He argued that under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Postal Service was required to reasonably accommodate his religious beliefs by exempting him from Sunday work.
Supreme Court Case
After the lower courts found in favor of the Postal Service, Groff appealed the case to the Supreme Court.
Back in 1977, the Supreme Court held in Trans World Airlines, Inc. v. Hardison that an employer does not need to accommodate an employee's religious practices if making the accommodate would create an "undue hardship." The Supreme Court also said in Hardison that it would be an "undue hardship" if an employer had "to bear more than a de minimis cost" to make the accommodation.
Groff argued in his appeal that the Supreme court should overrule Hardison and require employers to accommodate religious beliefs even if doing so created a higher cost. Groff also argued that an employer should not be able to show an "undue burden" simply by showing that coworkers are burdened by the accommodation. for instance, Groff argued, the Postal Service should not be able to show that Groff's request created an "undue burden" on the Postal Service overall, even if his coworkers were inconvenienced by having to work extra Sunday shifts.
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union, National Rural Letter Carriers Association, and National Association of Letter Carriers filed a joint amicus brief with the Supreme Court making two arguments.
First, we argued that the Court should not overrule Hardison, but should clarify that Hardison --read in entirety-- requires the employer to accommodate religious exercise unless doing so would create substantial costs. We argued that this would allow employers to better balance the needs of religious employees with the needs of the business as a whole.
Second, we argued instead of deciding in the abstract whether a burden on a coworkers can create an "undue burden" for the employer, the Court should send the case back to the lower courts to investigate the facts on how Groff's scheduling request would affect the Postal Service and his coworkers. We argued that the Court simply did not yet have enough facts to make that decision. We also argued that it would be an "undue burden" if the Postal Service had to violate a CBA or MOU provision to accommodate Groff.
Supreme Court Oral Argument
The Supreme Court heard oral argument in the case on April 18, 2023.
It is often difficult to make predictions about Supreme Court decisions, but based on the questions the justices asked at the oral argument, there is some hope that the Supreme Court may rule along the lines that our amicus brief suggested. A majority of the justices seemed to agree with the Postal Service and the postal unions that Hardison should not be overruled, but should be clarified. Additionally, a majority of the justices indicated that the case should be sent back to the trial court to find more facts about the effects of excusing Groff from Sunday work before determining whether the Postal Service violated Groff's religious rights.
Importantly, at oral argument, Groff's lawyer agreed that it would be an "undue burden" to excuse Groff from Sunday work if doing so would violate a seniority system in a collecive bargaining agreement. So, it appears that seniority systems, like the system set forth in the NPMHU National Agreement, are unlikely to be affected by Groff's lawsuit. It remains unclear whether other provisions of the National Agreement -- Like fair-scheduling provisions -- will be treated like seniority systems.
The Supreme Court is expected to issue its decision by the end of June.
The NPMHU supports employees' rights to receive reasonable accommodations for their religious beliefs and practices, and will continue to urge the Postal Service to provide those accommodations consistent with the terms of the National Agreement.
APRIL 21, 2023
UPDATE ON POSTALEASE
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APRIL 20, 2023
APRIL 18, 2023
USPS RELEASES INITIAL FACT SHEETS
ABOUT THE POSTAL SERVICE HEALTH BENEFITS PROGRAM
USPS and OPM, in consultation with the four Postal Unions, have developed Fact sheets to provide basic information regarding the Postal Service Health Benefits Program (PSHBP) that will begin January 1, 2025.
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APRIL 13, 2023
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE APRIL 2023
APRIL 7, 2023
Implementation Dates for the 2022 National Agreement
Dear Sisters and Brothers:
The following are the implementation dates for various sections of the 2022 National Agreement.
Non-Economic Issues/Work Rules - April 8, 2023.
One Time Conversions for MHAs in 200 work year offices with a relative standing date prior to 2.5 years from the ratification date (March 13, 2023) of the 2022 National Agreement – May 6, 2023.
New wage rate which will reflect the November 2022 general wage increase and the March 2023 COLA – PP09-2023 (04/08/2023). Date of new Step B for MHAs – PP14-2023 (06/17/2023).
Date of Elimination of Step BB – PP14-2023 (06/17/2023).
Date that step waiting period will be changed to 48 weeks – PP14-2023 (06/17/2023).
MHA Automatic Conversions/Step Changes/Employee Classification of MHAs in 200 work year offices who have reached 24 months of relative standing – PP14-2023 (06/17/2023).
Date of Advanced Annual leave for eligible MHAs and PTFs – PP 14- 2023 (06/17/2023).
Retro Pay – Pay Period 19, check dated 9/15/2023.
Clothing Allotment Carryover – Is still to be determined.
Should you have any questions contact the Contract Administration Department.
APRIL 6, 2023
NST MICHAEL HORA ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT -- KEVIN TABARUS NAMED
NEXT SECRETARY - TREASURER - EFFECTIVE JUNE 10, 2023
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MARCH 30, 2023
COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT (COLA) SET AT $208
Effective November 19, 2022 (and retroactively applicable)
MARCH 23, 2023
CHANGES TO THE LIUNA GENERAL EXECUTIVE BOARD
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MAIL HANDLER UPDATE WINTER 2023
MARCH 13, 2023
MAIL HANDLERS RATIFY 2022 NATIONAL AGREEMENT
The terms of the 2022 National Agreement between the NPMHU and the U.S. Postal Service were officially ratified on March 13, 2023. The certified results show that over 84% of the membership approved the new contract, with the final vote tally at 6,617 in favor of ratification and 1,237 in opposition to ratification.
Further details about the implementation of the 2022 National Agreement will be provided to Local Union officers and representatives in the coming weeks. All members are encouraged to retain and utilize their copy of the ratification booklet until National Agreements are printed and distributed.
FEBRUARY 8, 2023
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FEBRUARY 6, 2023
JANUARY 22, 2023
JANUARY 20, 2023 IMPORTANT MANDATORY STANDUP TALKS
Fraud Alert Update:
Net to Bank and Allotment Disabled Online in PostalEASE
The stand-up talk issued Friday, Dec. 23, 2022, discussed a fraud scheme by cyber criminals using fake LiteBlue websites to target Postal Service employees.
When you attempt to log in to a fake site, scammers collect your username and password. Scammers can record this information and use it to enter PostalEASE — the self-service application reached through LiteBlue for employment-related services. There, scammers may access your sensitive data, which they can manipulate for financial gain.
The LiteBlue and PostalEASE applications have not been compromised. A limited number of employees have reported unusual account activity involving their PostalEASE accounts, which has been attributed to their prior interaction with the fake LiteBlue websites.
As an additional precaution, the Net to Bank and Allotment functionalities have been disabled online in the PostalEASE application accessed externally through LiteBlue via a personal computer as of Dec. 29, 2022, until further notice.
Employees may cancel allotments, establish net to bank, or make changes to net to bank via the PostalEASE Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system. IVR is a telephone-based system and may be accessed by calling the Human Resources Shared Service Center (HRSSC) at 877-477-3273, menu option 1. Employees using the IVR system will need to have their employee identification number (EIN) and personal identification number (PIN).
These services can be conducted online via PostalEASE when accessed using a USPS-owned laptop or desktop computer, connected to the USPS network.
If you use an online search engine such as Google or Yahoo to navigate to LiteBlue, you may find fake LiteBlue websites in your search results. We are working with the internet service providers to remove the fake websites. However, they often reappear as quickly as they are removed.
You can reduce the chances of encountering a fake website by navigating directly to the official USPS website at (spell aloud) W-W-W - “dot” - L-I-T-E-B-L-U-E - “dot” - U-S-P-S - “dot” - G-O-V or www.liteblue.usps.gov. If you visit LiteBlue frequently, you should bookmark the site as one of your favorites.
We are also taking additional precautions across our network to mitigate the risk of further impact on our employees.
If you suspect you are a victim of this fraud or encounter a fake LiteBlue website, please contact USPS CyberSafe by email at cybersafe@usps.gov. Employees should also report any instance of suspected account tampering to the USPS Accounting Service Center helpline at 1-866-974-2733.
Thank you for listening.
JANUARY 15, 2023
JANUARY 14, 2023
MULTIFACTOR AUTHENTICATION NOW REQUIRED FOR LITEBLUE ACCESS
JANUARY 12, 2023
USPS ISSUES ADDITIONAL GUIDANCE
RE: POSTAL EASE AND LITEBLUE
JANUARY 2023 MAIL HANDLER UPDATE
THE MAIL HANDLER (FALL 2022)
JANUARY 4, 2023
USPS Issues Additional Guidance re: PostalEase and LiteBlue
DECEMBER 2022
Terry O'Sullivan
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Dear Brothers and Sisters, As the year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to wish each and every one of you Happy Holidays and all of the best to you and your loved ones.
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Looking ahead, I believe there is nothing we are not capable of achieving. Thank you for everything you do to build and strengthen this union. On behalf of myself, General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni and the entire General Executive Board, I wish you Happy Holidays and a safe, healthy, and prosperous 2023.
DECEMBER 23, 2022
USPS Issues Employee Communications Update
Regarding PostalEASE Website Fraud
Please see the latest information that we just received regarding the PostalEase website fraud.
FRAUD ALERT ** Postal Service Releases Mandatory Stand-Up Talk Regarding Fake LiteBlue Websites (pdf)
Securing Your Personal Data Employee Mailer (pdf) - Letter to be sent to all postal employees making them aware of the potential risk.
Keeping Your Private Information Secure Employee Handout (pdf) - Handout to be included in letter to all employees to provide examples of fake sites and steps on how to update personal contact information.
PostalEASE Website Fraud: Impacted Employee Notification (pdf)- Letter to be sent to only impacted employees notifying them of their situation and share information and next steps.
Please note, Headquarters is also preparing a Stand-Up Talk to support these communications. Additonal information will be shared when made avaialble to the NPMHU.
DECEMBER 20, 2022
***Urgent Message***
Concerning Fraudulent PostalEase Access
The USPS has confirmed that some Postal Service employees are unknowingly providing their usernames and passwords to criminal websites, while attempting to access PostalEase.
It is reported that employees are using Google and attempting to access PostalEase; however, Google in-turn has been redirecting users to criminally run websites that mirror the look and access of PostalEase.
The USPS Corporate Information Security Office (CISO) is working with the Postal Inspection Service to facilitate notice to the impacted employees. The NPMHU is told that formal notification to all employees is forthcoming. We will post that notice when it is released.
The USPS reports that representations have been made at the district level confirming Postal Inspectors are contacting impacted employees, as well as employees who may have unknowingly been compromised, and requesting their EINs and passwords.
Please note . . . Postal Inspectors have not contacted postal employees and requested their EINs and/or passwords. Employees should never provide usernames and/or passwords to anyone.
Financially impacted employees should immediately contact the Eagan ASC Helpdesk at 866-974-2733. Staff members are available to assist.
If you become aware of any employee experiencing access issues to PostalEase, they should immediately contact 877-477-3273 to request assistance.
We will provide you with any additional information when it is made available to the NPMHU.
DECEMBER MAIL HANDLER UPDATE
DECEMBER 15, 2022
DECEMBER 13, 2022
DECEMBER 6, 2022
NPMHU Appeals USPS Craft Determination of
Small Delivery Unit Sorter (SDUS) and Single Induction Parcel Sorter (SIPS)
(pdf) Please find linked, copies of two separate appeals recently filed by the NPMHU to challenge the Postal Service’s November 14, 2022 determination of craft jurisdiction for employees operating the Small Delivery Unit Sorter (ADUS) and Single Induction Parcel Sorter (SIPS). These machines have been deployed in facilities throughout the country and are continuing to be installed.
DECEMBER 1, 2022
OPM Announces Suspension Period for
Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program Applicants
(Click link below for more...)
Important: New Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) Regulations and Announcement of Suspension Period for FLTCIP Applicants
NOVEMBER 22, 2022
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As we celebrate this special time of year, I hope you are enjoying time with your loved ones. I want to take a moment to thank each and every LIUNA member for your tireless efforts to build, grow, and strengthen our union. Your commitment, strength, and activism is what makes the greatest union in North America. |
This year, we have made great progress in overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic. Our unity, solidarity, and our bond to each other has seen us through an unprecedented period of disruption which I hope is well behind us.
I am personally thankful and proud of your perserverance and commitment. Your efforts on the job and in your communities are second to none. You build and strengthen not only this union, but our nation.
On behalf of myself, General-Secretary Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni and the entire General Executive Board, I wish the proud, strong, and united brothers and sisters of LIUNA a Happy Thanksgiving.
TERRY O'SULLIVAN
LIUNA GENERAL PRESIDENT
MAIL HANDLER BENEFIT 2023 HEALTH PLANS
NOVEMBER 21, 2022
NPMHU ARTHUR S. VALLONE NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (2023-2024)
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union is pleased to offer the opportunity for career craft members of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, and members of their immediate families, to apply for scholarship assistance from the NPMHU Arthur S. Vallone National Scholarship Program.
Specific eligibility requirements for the program are detailed here.
NOVEMBER 17, 2022
USPS Issues Craft Determination,
Single Induction Process Sorter (SIPS),
Small Delivery unit Sorter (SDUS)
We enclose a copy of a November 14, 2022 letter, just received in the National Office, that sets forth the Postal Service’s determination of craft jurisdiction for employees operating the Single Induction Parcel Sorter (SIPS) and the Small Delivery Unit Sorter (SDUS). The SIPS and SDUS are currently deployed throughout the country in both Function 1 and Function 4 facilities.
As set forth in the attached letter, the Postal Service has determined that jurisdictional assignments on the SIPS and SDUS should be divided between the Mail Handler Craft and the Clerk Craft similar to the determination used for the Automated Delivery Unit Sorter (ADUS). For those facilities in which Mail Handlers are present, mail handlers have been assigned in Function 1 (F1) operations to the staging of packages and equipment, to the sweeping of packages (removal of full containers and replacement with empty containers) including “sort plan switch out,” and to the transportation of full containers to dispatch. A different rule has been established for Function 4 (F4) operations.
Under the Update MOU, the National Office has precise deadlines for challenging this determination, for discussing the issues at the NDRC, and for appealing any remaining disputes to National arbitration. The NPMHU will comply, to the extent necessary, with all of these procedures, which are reprinted here for ease of reference:
12. Either Union may initiate a dispute at the National level within twenty-one (21) calendar days from the date of receipt of a National craft determination made by the Postal Service; otherwise, that craft determination will be final and binding on the parties. The NDRC shall have sixty (60) calendar days after receipt of the dispute to attempt to resolve the dispute.
a. If the dispute is resolved, a tripartite settlement agreement will be signed by the three parties.
b. If the dispute is unresolved at the end of the sixty (60) calendar day period, a tripartite decision will be written by the NDRC setting forth the position of each party. The moving party may appeal the dispute to National RI-399 arbitration within twenty-one (21) calendar days of the receipt of the written decision of the NDRC. Copies of the appeal must be provided to the other parties through the NDRC within the twenty-one (21) day timeframe.
c. Disputes concerning National craft determinations may be initiated only at the National level. * * *
f. Any National-level case disputing a craft jurisdictional determination will be arbitrated within six (6) months of the implementation of the determination.
The National Office will begin the process of disputing the craft jurisdictions through the RI-399 Update MOU.
Should you have any questions about this letter or its implementation in any particular facility, please contact the National CAD. Please note that, as stated in the USPS letter, any ADUS machine that currently is operational should be adjusting assignments, if necessary, within 90 days from the November 14, 2022 date of the USPS letter, and this jurisdictional determination will go into effect no sooner than 45 days from the November 14, 2022 date of the USPS letter.
Craft Determination, Single Induction Process Sorter(SIPS), Small Delivery unit Sorter (SDUS) (pdf)
NOVEMBER 15, 2022
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NOVEMBER 11, 2022
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A Solemn Salute to Our Armed ForcesOn this Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, we solemnly and gratefully salute our veterans for their honor, courage, and patriotism. The men and women who serve and have served in our armed forces across the United States and Canada are a constant reminder of the sacrifices of those who proudly, faithfully, and honorably protect our democracy and our freedom. |
Many veterans are wounded, taken prisoner, or make the ultimate sacrifice with their lives for the good of our countries. It is their dedication, commitment, and loyalty - many of them LIUNA members and loved ones of LIUNA members - that form the bedrock of our two great nations.
Time after time, they have answered the call for Americans, for Canadians, and for people around the world. It is our duty to ensure that when they return home, they and their families have access to health care and economic opportunities. It is unacceptable that too often veterans struggle to meet their basic needs when their service ends. Veterans should be able to return to their families to live in prosperity with good family-supporting jobs and access to top-notch health care.
On behalf of myself, General Secretary-Treasuer Armand E. Sabotini, the entire LIUNA General Executive Board, and each of the half-million men and women of LIUNA, I thank the veterans in our lives, in our union, and in our countries. We are forever in their debt.
OCTOBER 19, 2022
Protect LIUNA Victories Vote for your Job on November 8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I095KQW0Clg
OCTOBER 2022
SEPTEMBER 2022
MAIL HANDLERS BACK IN THE DAY MOMENT (DECEMBER 1944)
SEPTEMBER 21, 2022
SEPTEMBER 20, 2022
NPMHU Bidding Procedures Modified as Negotiations Continue
The parties affirm that effective September 21, 2022, employees represented by the NPMHU will be allowed to bid under the new contract, whether or not the parties reach a tentative settlement, extend bargaining, or enter into impasse procedures. Successful bids on or after September 21, 2022 will be counted towards the bid maximums established in the 2022 National Agreement.
September 20, 2022 Memorandum (pdf)
SEPTEMBER 19, 2022
SEPTEMBER 16, 2022
SEPTEMBER 13, 2022
SEPTEMBER 9, 2022
Arbitrator Sharnoff Rules on Automated Delivery Unit Sorter (ADUS)
We are enclosing a copy of National Arbitrator Joseph Sharnoff’s long-awaited decision in the RI-399 jurisdictional dispute concerning the Automated Delivery Unit Sorter or ADUS. The arbitrator has rejected the NPMHU’s attempt to correct the Postal Service’s ADUS determination, as well as the APWU’s attempt to expand its work jurisdiction.
SEPTEMBER 5, 2022
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Today is Labor Day. This year, it’s truly a day for workers to celebrate. And we have a lot to be excited about. We celebrate our union movement that is delivering results, with workers coming together and organizing to make our jobs better, across the country. We celebrate the progress working people have made through decades of advocacy to create better lives for ourselves and our families, ensure safer workplaces and build a stronger economy. |
It’s no wonder that unions are more popular today than at any time in more than 50 years! A record 71% of Americans now say they approve of unions.
We are celebrating the Biden-Harris administration that puts working families front and center in everything it does. Look at the victories we’ve had just this year, from the bipartisan infrastructure law to the CHIPS Act to the Inflation Reduction Act to student loan forgiveness. These laws are investments that will change working families’ lives, by creating new jobs, making prescriptions more affordable and lifting the burden of debt.
These are victories we achieved thanks to your activism, organizing and advocacy. Working people are recognizing the power we have when we join together to form unions. We are seeing every day the strength of workers coming together—from sheet metal workers in Alaska to REI workers in the Bay Area, from workers at the Milwaukee Art Museum to nurses in Coral Gables, Florida—and it is truly inspiring.
But we can’t stop here. After we celebrate, our job is to take that momentum and use it to go all in on this election, so that we can protect our pro-worker majority and keep building on these victories.
Because so much of the progress we’ve fought for—and so many of our most fundamental freedoms—is at risk. And so after we celebrate, we’re going to keep fighting.
We’re going to fight to protect the freedom to organize—to fight back against unfair pay and unsafe workplaces. We’re going to fight to protect the freedom to access health care. And we’re going to fight to protect the freedom to vote.
The stakes are high, but we can do it. Workers know better than anyone how powerful we are when we join together to make our voices heard.
Today is Labor Day. Today, we recognize all of our hard work. And tomorrow, we’ll keep organizing, keep fighting and keep winning, because that’s what America’s workers do.
In Solidarity,
Liz Shuler,
President, AFL-CIO
SEPTEMBER 2, 2022
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Labor Day is Our DayAs we mark this year's Labor Day, let us reflect on the sacrifice, struggle, and sweat of the working men and women who built our nations. It is workers and their unions who are on the frontlines, carrying us through economic ups and downs, through wars and pandemics, and none have done so, so willingly as the strong, proud, and united members of LIUNA across the United States and Canada. |
In the U.S. and in Canada this Labor Day, we are seeing the fruit of our advocacy and political strength as transformational infrastructure investment is resulting in the creation of tens of thousands of good, family-supporting LIUNA jobs. In both our countries, we are working to lay the foundation for a stronger middle-class, robust union rights, and lasting prosperity for every union family.
Despite the many strides forward for working men and women, too often our efforts to advance union rights and inequality are challenged by the greed of unscrupulous and callous union-busters. As LIUNA members, we stand ready to fight, and we know that for all of the challenges we face, there is no more certain cure than a union card.
On this holiday, let us re-dedicate ourselves to the cause of labor rights, human rights, and social and economic justice and through our strength and resolve, we will lift up the working-class in both of our great nations. May every LIUNA member feel the power, be the power and use the power! On behalf of myself, General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni and the entire LIUNA General Executive Board, I wish you and your family a safe, meaningful and well-deserved Labor Day.
SEPTEMBER 2, 2022
Labor Day: A Time to Celebrate America’s Workers and Unions
For more than 125 years, the United States has held the first Monday in September as an annual celebration of the social and economic achievements of American workers. It’s a time for parades and barbeques across the country — and also, a time to recognize the importance of the people whose hard work allows our society to flourish, and the unions who fight for safe working conditions, fair pay, and adequate benefits. From fighting for $15 minimum wages in cities across the country, to demanding a humane...
SEPTEMBER 2, 2022
AUGUST 23, 2022
Arbitrator Brent Rules on Subcontracting of
Kansas City Surface Transfer Center (STC)
August 24, 2022 - Memorandum to Local Presidents re: National Arbitration Decision: Article 32 and the Subcontracting of the Kansas City STC
We are extremely pleased to announce that the NPMHU has prevailed in National arbitration concerning the Postal Service’s decision to subcontract Mail Handler work at the Kansas City Surface Transportation Center or STC. A copy of the decision is attached. The award also should apply to several other STCs that have been subcontracted, and favorably interprets several prior National awards under Article 32 and related contract provisions.
This case began in August 2019, when the Postal Service first notified the NPMHU at the National level that the Postal Service had decided to subcontract all mail handler work at the Kansas City STC, scheduled for opening and staffing in September 2019. The National Union initiated a grievance at the Step 4 or National level, followed by additional grievances during subsequent months arising from similar situations in Chicago, Orlando, Atlanta, Washington DC, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Southern California, and Northern California.
Six days of hearings were held ending in October 2021, during which the NPMHU argued that the USPS action was a blatant violation of Article 32 of the parties’ National Agreement, as well as a violation of the Memorandum of Understanding Re Article 32 that has appeared in all National Agreements since 2013. Specifically, the Union argued that both Article 32.1B of the National Agreement and the MOU re Article 32 provide for advance notice and discussions with the Union while the Postal Service is “developing the initial Comparative Analysis Report.”
We also argued that the Postal Service is required, among other things, to consider the views of the Union before making its subcontracting decision, to respond to the Union’s views in its decisional document, and to not make any final decisions on contracting out work prior to discussing the matter with the Union. Serving as witnesses for the NPMHU were Chris Bentley, President of Local 297 covering Kansas and Western Missouri; Teresa Harmon, Manager of the National CAD; and Paul Hogrogian, National President.
Attempting to excuse these violations of Article 32, the Postal Service claimed that “[n]o significant impact to the bargaining unit is anticipated,” and that therefore Article 32’s procedural and substantive rules did not apply to any decision to subcontract one or more STCs. In the alternative, USPS also claimed that its decisions in Kansas City and elsewhere were eminently reasonable.
Each of the USPS management arguments were soundly rejected by National Arbitrator Daniel Brent. As a summary of his award, Arbitrator Brent stated as follows:
The Postal Service violated the National Agreement by the manner in which the Postal Service implemented the subcontracting of the Kansas City, Kansas STC. The Union’s grievance is sustained.
The Employer failed to provide the Union with an opportunity, as required by the Article 32 Memorandum of Understanding, to propose different percentages of, or hourly rates for, MHA’s to ensure competitiveness with outside services before the Employer decided to subcontract the Kansas City STC. The Employer also neglected to consider the potential impact of future expansion of the STC network when determining that subcontracting of the Kansas City STC would have no significant impact on the NPMHU bargaining unit.
To reach these conclusions, the National Arbitrator issued a series of interpretations that will prove helpful to Mail Handler representatives and advocates in future subcontracting disputes. Below are some excerpts, although all NPMHU representatives are encouraged to read the entire decision.
Here are some key paragraphs from the Brent Award on the issue of “significant impact” under Article 32 of the National Agreement:
The Employer’s argument that there was no significant impact on the bargaining unit because no current bargaining unit employees lost their jobs or suffered diminished work opportunity due to the Kansas City STC outsourcing ignores the plain language in the Article 32 MOU affording the Union the right to prior notice of impending outsourcing and the right to submit certain proposals before a subcontracting decision is finalized. Simply declaring that the opening of the Kansas City STC would not significantly impact the NPMHU bargaining unit did not change the fact that outsourcing was being considered without giving the Union the opportunity to be heard as explicitly required by the Article 32 MOU.
The Employer’s analysis concluding that no significant impact would be caused by subcontracting the Kansas City STC was based exclusively on the relative percentage paradigm that was used in previous precedential awards issued before the Article 32 MOU appeared in the 2011-2016 contract. The Union asserted that the Employer improperly ignored clear evidence, available when the decision to create the Kansas City STC was made in 2019, that the USPS was continuing its on-going process of building a nationwide network of Surface Transportation Centers in order to cut costs by shifting mail volume away from more expensive air transportation and by consolidating regional loads of mail and packages to maximize trailer efficiency for long distance hauling of mail. The impact of subcontracting much, if not all, of the mail processed by this STC network would be significant for this bargaining unit. Ignoring the possibility of future expansion of the STC network materially impaired the Employer’s Article 32.1B determination of no significant impact.
[T]he Postal Service cannot look myopically at a single facility or solely at a particular point in time when assessing the significant impact of subcontracting work to non-bargaining unit workers without also considering the implications if the disputed program were to be expanded significantly. The facts adduced during six arbitration hearings held in the instant case mandate a conclusion that the planners who were evaluating the Kansas City STC in 2019 were aware of a continuing effort by the Postal Service to shift mail volume from air transportation to surface transportation to reduce both costs and environmental impact. Nothing in the record established that the Employer’s executives and consultants who participated in the outsourcing decision regarding the Kansas City STC in 2019 had a reasonable basis to believe that this long-term initiative would end with the Kansas City STC, as using airplanes would likely remain more expensive than ground transportation and nation-wide consolidation of mail and packages into fewer truck loads would remain economically and environmentally desirable. These evaluators were also aware that expiring outsourced contracts of four previously outsourced STC’s had been renewed in 2018, rather than reassigning the work to NPMHU bargaining unit members.
Although no one can predict the future, the ongoing evolution in 2019 and likely future expansion of this national Surface Transportation Network as an integral component of mail distribution across the United States should have been considered in assessing whether significant impact would occur under an Article 32.1 B analysis.
Other sections of Arbitrator Brent’s decision discuss the separate and independent impact of the MOU Re Article 32 that appears in the NPMHU National Agreement. Here are some key paragraphs from the Brent Award about the Article 32 MOU:
By [also] ignoring the clear language of the Article 32 MOU, the Employer eroded the propriety of its finding of no significant impact.
The Article 32 MOU explicitly creates an independent obligation to consider all relevant factors regarding using MHA’s “whenever contracting-out or in-sourcing is under consideration”. Such obligation expressly provides the Union the opportunity, at its sole discretion, to “propose different hourly rates for such MHAs to ensure competitiveness with outside services.” The Article 32 MOU necessarily mandates prior notice to the Union whenever outsourcing is considered in order to provide the Union the opportunity to propose MHA related modifications. The Employer did not provide such notice.
Whenever outsourcing or in-sourcing is contemplated by the Employer, the Article 32 MOU guarantees the Union the opportunity to propose using more MHA’s or implementing different MHA hourly rates in order to increase the competitiveness of NPMHU bargaining unit employees before the Employer conducts its analysis of the five Article 32.1A factors that must be considered in all subcontracting decisions.
These sophisticated parties have a long bargaining relationship. By incorporating the Article 32 MOU into the collective bargaining agreement, the parties augmented Article 32 and created a changed circumstance that cannot be disregarded. To hold otherwise would negate the bargain reached by the parties through the process under which the Article 32 MOU became an integral component of the parties’ collectively negotiated agreements.
In short, this Brent Award should help to restrict or even end the USPS practice of subcontracting Mail Handler work to private employers without first considering the views of the Union on all issues properly presented.
The Brent Award remanded the issue of remedy to the National parties, meaning that the remedial portion of this Award and its impact on subcontracting at the STC in Kansas City, and in other locations, is still to be determined.
Please do not hesitate to contact the National Office should you have any questions.
AUGUST 23, 2022
2022 Contract Update #6
You are reading the sixth Contract Update produced and distributed by the NPMHU during the course of 2022 negotiations. These updates, along with the Union’s magazine and monthly bulletins, will keep mail handlers throughout the country informed and involved in the issues raised during this round of bargaining.
As the NPMHU National Office returns to Washington, DC after a productive National Convention, our bargainers are eager to return to the negotiations table. Throughout the Convention, members of the Negotiations Team had been working behind the scenes to continue bargaining. The end of the Convention created an opportunity to resume bargaining at the Main Table.
On August 17, the NPMHU Negotiations Team returned to Postal Service HQ to resume Main Table Negotiations, where it delivered Article 32 proposals to USPS representatives. The next day, the NPMHU hosted USPS at its HQ in the AFL-CIO building, where both parties further discussed the NPMHU’s proposals and their finer details.
To date, the NPMHU has given representatives of USPS management over 75 proposals, totaling nearly 100 pages of written text. Conversely, USPS representatives have issued the NPMHU less than 10 proposals. In addition to their lack of genuine proposals, USPS representatives have displayed a much less cooperative atmosphere and stalled progress in genuine negotiations.
As the NPMHU Negotiations Team attempts to reach agreements on contract language governing work rules and operational matters in Main Table discussions, USPS representatives are calling for the referral of these proposals to the much lengthier and bureaucratic process for approving economic proposals. Trying to delay bargaining by pushing these proposals all the way up to highest ranking officials in the Postal Service has stalled negotiations at the Main Table.
When the Postal Service is not looking to delay issues to the final economic bargaining, it shows a poignant lack of urgency in coming to tentative agreements on simple issues. This delay occurs even when a proposed change in the contract is — by the admission of members of the USPS negotiating team — already a practice employed by management.
Subcommittees also seem to be stalled, as management shows a fundamental lack of understanding of NPMHU proposals, often belaboring the same point even after a contrary understanding has been reached. Combined with stagnation at the Main Table, it suggests that the USPS fundamentally misunderstands the NPMHU proposals and positions.
On numerous occasions, President Hogrogian has asked the USPS representatives to come to prompt tentative agreements on any issues that would not have an adverse impact on postal operations, or would save USPS money, or which have routinely been granted to other crafts. In these instances, USPS representatives to this point have displayed a noted resistance and lack of transparency as to why.
Perhaps even more problematic, when the NPMHU comes to the Main Table sessions or to numerous subcommittee meetings, it is unsure who has the authority to reach agreements on some of the issues being discussed. As the USPS tries to refer proposals to the economic table, its negotiation team seems less and less able — or willing — to reach any tentative agreements.
As the contract deadline approaches, with 30 days remaining until September 20, 2022, the NPMHU hopes that USPS will be open to discussing more options at the Main Table and agreed upon subcommittees, as well as being more forthcoming and transparent as the parties strive to reach agreements on subsidiary issues. As always, the NPMHU Negotiations Team will strive to do what is best for the NPMHU, the Postal Service, and the American mailing public.
2022 No. 6 – August 23, 2022 (pdf)
AUGUST 13, 2022
NPMHU Convention Day 4:
Final Thoughts and A Joyous Farewell
AUGUST 11, 2022
NPMHU Convention Day 3:
Constitutional Amendments and Resolutions
NPMHU Convention Day 2:
Labor Cooperation, Presidential Oration,and Constitutional Reformation
AUGUST 11, 2022
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) set at $2,455
Effective August 27, 2022, all career Mail Handler craft employees are scheduled to receive a cost-of-living (COLA) adjustment as outlined in Article 9.3 of the 2019 National Agreement. This is the last of six possible COLA increases under the terms of the current agreement. This COLA increase is based on the upward change in the relevant Consumer Price Index (CPI) following release of the July 2022 Index, using the July 2019 CPI index as a base. The increase will appear in paychecks dated September 16, 2022 (Pay Period 19-2022).The resulting calculation provides an annual increase of $2,455 or $1.18 per hour for all Steps in Table 1 and for Step P of Table 2. The remaining Steps in Table 2 will receive the proportional COLA increase percentages as outlined in Article 9.3 of the National Agreement.
AUGUST 9, 2022
NPMHU Convention Day 1:
Congressmen, Presidents, and Convention Business
AUGUST 8, 2022
NPMHU Convention Kicks-off in Denver, Colorado
JULY 28, 2022
NPMHU and USPS Reach Agreement to Convert 2702 MHAs
to Career Full-time Regular by September 10, 2022
Memorandum of Understanding Re: Additional Mail Handler Staffing Q&As on the MOU: Re: Additional Mail Handler Staffing - June 26, 2022 (pdf)
Attached to this memorandum is a new MOU signed by the NPMHU and the Postal Service to provide for additional Mail Handler staffing by converting 2702 Mail Handler Assistants to full-time regular career employment no later than September 10, 2022. Also attached is a chart listing the 197 installations in which these conversions will take place and the number of conversions that will take place in each listed installation. The parties have also agreed in this MOU that the MHA peak season exception period for the 2022 peak season will be expanded by one (1) pay period.
Additionally, the parties have agreed to a Joint Question and Answer document addressing and affirming the parties’ mutual understanding and interpretation of the provisions contained in this MOU, which is also attached.
Please do not hesitate to contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
LOCAL 303 BREAKDOWN BELOW
JULY 27, 2022
LIUNA Hails Looman Nomination for DOL Wage and Hour Division
Terry O’Sullivan, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – made the following statement today:
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LIUNA enthusiastically supports the nomination of Jessica Looman, a proud member of our great union, to serve as the Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor. Looman has committed herself to serving the public and is a talented and experienced
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Jessica Looman has an impeccable track record - from her work in the State of Minnesota to her current role as Acting Administrator and Principal Deputy Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division – she has been successful in ensuring that the hard and dangerous work LIUNA members do every day is safer and bound by more robust labor standards that ensure a voice on the job and good family supporting pay.
With her commitment and expertise, there is no one better suited than Jessica Looman to serve as the Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division at the U.S. Department of Labor. LIUNA strongly supports her nomination and urges a speedy confirmation by the U.S. Senate.
| WHITE HOUSE PROCLAMATION |
JULY NPMHU UPDATE
JULY 19, 2022
2022 Contract Update #4
You are reading the fourth Contract Update produced and distributed by the NPMHU during the course of 2022 negotiations. These updates, along with the Union’s magazine and monthly bulletins, will keep mail handlers throughout the country informed and involved in the issues raised during this round of bargaining.
The concept of collective bargaining is at the heart of organized labor. By the turn of the twentieth century, American laborers utilized their bargaining power as the primary tool for economic justice. Though management utilized vast and powerful resources, the ability to bargain collectively provided labor with a powerful tool to fight back.
In 1935, as a part of the New Deal program, President Franklin D. Roosevelt ensured the passage of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) – sometimes referred to as the Wagner Act. Its passage explicitly granted workers the right to bargain collectively. However, by 1947, the American government had passed the Taft-Hartley Act, which vastly curtailed the collective bargaining power of organized labor.
Despite this setback, the power of organized labor was extended in 1962, when President Kennedy issued Executive Order 10,988, which first granted federal employees the right to collective bargaining rights. This right was expanded to the Postal Service with passage of the Postal Reorganization Act (PRA) of 1970 – which is the framework by which the USPS and the NPMHU govern their bargaining.
The bargaining process begins when one party (either the USPS or NPMHU) serves written notice to the other of the desire to modify an agreement. Under Article 39 of our National Agreement, this notice must be served between 90 and 120 days from when the contract expires. For this contract, which expires on September 20, 2022, that meant the parties had to be notified somewhere between June 20 and July 20.
The parties then spend three to four months negotiating through different proposals – which are submitted both by management and the union. If USPS and the NPMHU come to a tentative agreement, that agreement is put forth to the NPMHU membership for a vote-by-mail ballot as mandated in the NPMHU National Constitution. If the tentative agreement is accepted by the membership, it becomes the new governing document between the USPS and mail handlers.
If the NPMHU and USPS fail to come to an agreement or the tentative agreement is rejected by the membership, then the PRA leaves other options. The most popular of these options is for both parties to settle on dispute resolution procedures on their own. If the legal teams cannot agree in procedures to resolve their dispute, this activates another provision in the PRA.
First, the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) would establish a 3-person fact finding panel that would then have 45 days in which to investigate the bargaining dispute and issue a report of its findings. If an agreement still has not been reached after the fact-finding panel, the PRA requires the establishment of an arbitration board within 90 days of contract expiration. This board generally consists of three members – one appointed by the Union, one appointed by the Postal Service, and a third (neutral) member.
The arbitration board holds a hearing in which both sides have the chance to present evidence in support of their claims. The board is required to make a decision 45 days after its appointment, which, as the PRA states, will be “conclusive” and “binding.” It will determine the terms of the new agreement. Therefore, the National President usually hosts a meeting of the Local Unions and receives their advice before entering arbitration.
As the NPMHU and USPS continue negotiations, please watch your bulletin boards for the latest information!
JULY 18, 2022
Urge your Representatives and Senators
to Support the USPS Shipping Equity Act
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union is joining with the Distilled Spirits Council, other Postal Unions, and brewers and distillers for a day of action on July 19 to request members of Congress cosponsor the USPS Shipping Equity Act, H.R. 3287/S. 1663. As this legislation overturns Prohibition Era regulations, the USPS will be able to meet the demands customers to ship directly from producers and will generate $190 million annually for the Postal Service.
Please use this link to contact your Representative and Senators to sign onto the USPS Shipping Equity Act: https://www.spiritsunited.org/campaign/41521/
Be Aware of the Hatch Act
All NPMHU members are encouraged to take part in the political process, however, you must remain aware of the restrictions on political activities that are imposed by the Hatch Act. While postal and federal employees are allowed to participate in a wide range of political activities, no political activity can be done while on postal property or on postal time and ".gov" email accounts cannot be used to register. For more information and further guidance on the Hatch Act, please visit the NPMHU website.
JULY 14, 2022
NPMHU and USPS Reach Agreement on Pilot Program
to Return THS Work to the Mail Handler Craft
The 2019 National Agreement includes a MOU on subcontracting, part of which states the following: “Under the 2019 National Agreement, the parties commit to re-establishing their Subcontracting Committee and continuing their discussions about the possibility of returning mail handler work from the Surface Transportation Centers (STC), Mail Transport Equipment Service Centers (MTESC) and the bedloading project. The Committee will consider all relevant factors when discussing the issue outlined above, to include cost, operational efficiency, availability of equipment, and qualification of employees. In addition, any MHA employees utilized as referenced in paragraph 1 will not count against existing non-career caps.”
Based on this MOU, the parties at the National level have been engaged in ongoing discussions about these subjects as well as other subcontracted work. Most recently, discussions have been focused on the Terminal Handling Services which has been subcontracted in most locations since 2001.
We are pleased to announce that the National parties have reached their first agreement on insourcing or returning some of the terminal handling service work to the mail handler craft starting with a one-year pilot program in certain postal facilities. The first installation where the THS work will be returned to postal operations at the West Valley P&DC in Phoenix, AZ. The details of this pilot program is outlined on the attached Memorandum of Understanding.
Although much of the information obtained and being discussed by the NPMHU is subject to nondisclosure and confidentiality agreements, should you have any questions on these matters, please do not hesitate to contact the National CAD.
Terminal Handling Services Staffing Pilot – July 13, 2022 (pdf)
JULY 6, 2022
2022 Contract Update #3
You are reading the third Contract Update produced and distributed by the NPMHU during the course of 2022 negotiations. These updates, along with the Union’s magazine and monthly bulletins, will keep mail handlers throughout the country informed and involved in the issues raised during this round of bargaining.
On June 29, 2022, representatives from the NPMHU Negotiations Team and the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) met for the second session of main table bargaining at NPMHU Headquarters in the AFL-CIO building (Washington, DC). Both groups returned to the bargaining table hoping to continue the spirit of positive cooperation that had been established in the first session.
During this second substantive meeting, the NPMHU Negotiations Team presented their first set of proposed changes to the current contractual language in the 2019 National Agreement. Representatives of the USPS were given the opportunity to ask questions and to clarify any points of the NPMHU proposals that they might not have understood. President Hogrogian, acting as chief spokesperson and with the occasional assistance of CAD Representatives and NPMHU Counsel, provided USPS with details about the nature of each proposal.
The proposals presented by the NPMHU were extensive and aimed to improve the quality of work for every Mail Handler. Submitted amendments included:
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Dignity and Respect
Updating the non-discrimination policy
Updating the MOU regarding deaf and hard of hearing Mail Handlers
Greater protections and privileges for Mail Handler Assistants (MHAs)
A more efficient and effective overtime policy
Better regulation of management’s use of 204Bs
During the coming weeks, both the NPMHU Negotiations Team and USPS representatives, acting through various subcommittees, will address these issues and further discuss these new proposals.
Who’s at the Table?
Members of the NPMHU Negotiations Team include President Hogrogian; National Secretary-Treasurer Michael Hora; National CAD Manager Teresa Harmon; National CAD Representatives Neil Ryan, Thomas Ruther, and Eugene Horton; and our legal team from the NPMHU General Counsel’s office. USPS management is represented by chief spokesperson Patrick M. Devine, as well as a dozen other representatives and legal counsel.
What’s Next?
Main table negotiations will continue this coming week, with other full sessions scheduled through July 29, when representatives of the USPS and the NPMHU will return to USPS Headquarters to receive the Postal Service’s proposals. At that time, members of the NPMHU Negotiations team will ask their own clarifying questions.
Both on-the-record bargaining sessions and off-the-record subcommittee meetings will be routinely scheduled throughout the summer. Behind the scenes, the NPMHU Negotiations Team will be caucusing constantly to ensure that all the issues and proposals being prioritized in this round are carefully considered.
As talks continue, the NPMHU’s bargaining team will strive to ensure that the next National Agreement is good for the membership, consistent with the continued health and prosperity of the Postal Service, and beneficial to the American mailing public.
Future editions of this Contract Update will outline some of what is being discussed this year, highlighting developments in negotiations as they occur. Please check your bulletin boards for more bargaining information throughout the coming weeks and months.
2022 No. 3 – July 6, 2022 (pdf)
JULY 5, 2022
Just Released: OPM Data Breach Class Action Settlement
If You Were Subject to the Data Breaches of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management and Its Contractor, and You Experienced an Out-of-Pocket Loss After the Breaches, You Could Be Eligible for a Payment from a Class Action Settlement.
A settlement has been reached in a class action lawsuit about the data breaches of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (“OPM”) and its security contractor that allegedly compromised personal information of then-current and former federal government employees and contractors, as well as certain applicants for federal employment. The Defendants in the case—OPM and its contractor Peraton Risk Decision Inc. (“Peraton”)—deny that they did anything wrong but have agreed to settle the lawsuit. The Court has not decided who is right.
Who’s in the Settlement? You are receiving this email because you may be a Class Member. You are a Class Member if your personal information was compromised as a result of the breaches of OPM’s electronic information systems in 2014 and 2015 or the breach of Peraton’s electronic information systems in 2013 and 2014; and if, after May 7, 2014, you suffered an out-of-pocket expense or lost Compensable Time: (1) to purchase a credit monitoring product, credit or identity theft protection product, or other product or service designed to identify or remediate the data breaches at issue in this case; (2) to access, freeze or unfreeze a credit report with a credit reporting agency; or (3) as a result of an identity theft incident or to mitigate an identity theft incident.
What does the Settlement provide? Defendants will pay $63,000,000 into a Settlement Fund, which will be distributed to Class Members who submit Valid Claims. Class Members who submit Valid Claims will receive $700 or the actual amount of the claim—whichever is higher—up to a maximum of $10,000. If the total value of all Valid Claims, plus any incentive awards to Named Plaintiffs, exceeds the Settlement Fund, then the value of those individual claims will be reduced in equal proportion.
What are your options? If you are a Settlement Class Member, you must fill out and submit a Claim Form to qualify for a payment. You can quickly and easily file your claim online here. You can also download a paper Claim Form from the website or get one by calling the Claims Administrator at 1-855-917-3567. The completed Claim Form must be submitted online or by mail postmarked no later than December 23, 2022.
If you are a Class Member and you don’t want benefits from the Settlement, and you want to keep your right to sue Defendants on your own about the legal issues in this case, then you must take steps to get out of the Settlement. This is called excluding yourself from—or “opting out” of—the Class. If you do not exclude yourself from the Settlement, you will remain in the Class and will give up the right to sue Defendants for the claims resolved by the Settlement.
Your request for exclusion must be submitted by mail postmarked by September 9, 2022. If you do not exclude yourself from the Settlement, you may object to the Settlement if you do not like any part of it. The deadline to object is September 9, 2022. The Court will hold a Fairness Hearing at 10:00 a.m. on October 14, 2022. At this hearing, the Court will consider whether the Settlement is fair, reasonable, and adequate. If there are objections, the Court will consider them. The Court will listen to people who have asked to speak at the hearing. You may attend at your own expense, or you may also pay your own lawyer to attend, but it is not necessary.
This notice is a summary. The Settlement Agreement and more information on the lawsuit and your rights are available at www.OPMDataBreach.com or by calling toll-free 1-855-917-3567.
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JUNE 23, 2022
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE (SPRING 2022)
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE JUNE 2022
JUNE 10, 2022
NPMHU and USPS Present Opening Statements as
National Negotiations Begin in Washington D.C.
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union bargaining team met with representatives of the U.S. Postal Service on June 10, 2022 to mark the official start of the collective bargaining process for a successor agreement to replace the current National Agreement which is scheduled to expire on September 20, 2022. The NPMHU is committed to making every reasonable effort to reach an agreement that is good for our members, good for the Postal Service, and good for the American mailing public.
The Postal Service certainly is facing continuing challenges, some caused by economic conditions, others by decline in mail volumes, and still others by technological changes. The national recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and the return of the American economy to a pattern of normal growth, should mean a return to more normalized collective bargaining. This should be a time for the parties to agree on a period of relatively stable labor relations, without the massive disruptions and dislocations caused by the unwarranted closing of mail processing facilities and by unnecessary subcontracting or privatization.
The Mail Handlers Union remains deeply committed to the negotiating process. Certainly, the NPMHU will continue to work with the Postal Service to address extraordinary circumstances. Mail Handlers, as essential workers, reported to work every day during the pandemic, putting their own health and that of their families at risk. We expect the Postal Service to work with the NPMHU to negotiate a contract that rewards Mail Handlers for the hard work and dedication that we have exhibited during the past difficult years. We expect, and will demand, that the Postal Service engage in good faith bargaining on all issues that are properly the subject of mutual bargaining.
The goals of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union in this year’s round of bargaining can be stated simply. We seek a negotiated agreement that corrects a wage scale that is badly broken; we seek an agreement that protects our jobs and improves our standard of living; we seek a negotiated contract that improves the status of all Mail Handlers, be they long-term and dedicated employees who have devoted their work lives to the Postal Service or Mail Handler Assistants, who are our newest members and the Postal Service’s future career employees; we seek a contract that minimizes the dislocation and inconvenience to Mail Handlers whose careers may be involuntarily disrupted by excessing or downsizing; and we seek to stop future subcontracting and return currently outsourced work to the Mail Handler craft.
In short, we seek practical solutions to the problems faced by Mail Handlers, so that working together we can ensure that the Postal Service and all its Mail Handler employees can continue to provide the American public with the service that they have come to expect. The NPMHU will put out periodic updates, in the form of bulletin board postings, as bargaining progresses.
2022 Contract Update #1 (pdf)
NPMHU Opening Statement (pdf)
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MAY 27, 2022Dear Brothers and Sisters,
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Let us honor those who serve and have served with a solemn salute. We owe these patriots and heroes a debt of gratitude that can never truly be fully repaid. In their honor and out of respect for their sacrifices, we must redouble our efforts to build an even stronger union and country that provides opportunities to prosper when their service has ended.
On behalf of myself, LIUNA General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni, and the entire General Executive Board, I wish each and every one of you a safe, meaningful, and enjoyable Memorial Day.
MAY 27, 2022
Arbitrator Sharnoff Rules on Universal Sorting System (USS)
We are pleased to report that the NPMHU has prevailed in its National RI-399 dispute concerning jurisdictional assignments on the Universal Sorting System or USS.
In an award dated May 24, 2022, National Arbitrator Joseph Sharnoff concluded that the jurisdictional determination originally issued by the Postal Service in 2019 was consistent with the principles of RI-399, and that the Mail Handler Craft is the proper craft for performing all operations on the USS, including the reject keying station. In a lengthy, 82-page decision, the Arbitrator agreed with the arguments presented by the NPMHU and the Postal Service, and rejected each argument put forward by the APWU.
Here are some of the key paragraphs:
The Arbitrator concludes, for the following reasons, that the APWU has failed to meet its heavy burden of proving that the USPS acted improperly and in a manner which has been demonstrated by the protesting Union to have been arbitrary, capricious, unreasonable, and that the craft determination constituted an abuse of the USPS’s discretion with regard to its issuance of the Craft Jurisdiction Determination letter for the USS, dated July 12, 2019, in favor of the Mail Handler Craft for all positions on the USS, including the employees performing the dumping, singulating, keying, and removing/sweeping of parcels/packages from the USS, with the exception of the staffing of the “Scan Where You Band” operation when present, which work was awarded to the Clerk Craft, with allied work on that operation assigned to the Mail Handler Craft.
The Arbitrator, based on the above, finds that the USPS has demonstrated that the USPS, in evaluating relevant factors in the formulation of the craft determination for the USS, found highly significant that the USS was intended and designed for the purpose of processing NMOs, i.e., parcels/packages which could not be processed on other machines, such as the HSUS or LCUS. The Arbitrator recognizes, as did these USPS officials, that there remain some NMOs which exceed the dimensions of parcels/packages which can be processed on the USS and which, therefore, must be processed manually and that a significant amount of the parcels/packages processed on the USS includes priority mail and other smaller parcels which could be processed on the other machines but are dumped onto the USS and processed together with the larger NMOs which the USS was designed and intended to process.
The Arbitrator notes that, in the Opinion and Award of Arbitrator Howard Gamser, American Postal Workers Union, AFL-CIO, and National Post Office, Mail Handlers, Watchmen, Messengers, and Group Leaders Division of the Laborers International Union of North America, AFL-CIO, Case No. AD-NAT- 1311, dated October 13, 1981, Arbitrator Gamser denied claims by the APWU regarding the assignment by the USPS of outside parcels and NMOs to the Mail Handler Craft.
This Arbitrator notes that Arbitrator Gamser stated, with regard to the determination by the USPS in favor of the Mail Handler Craft as the primary craft for Function 4 or Operation 100: “manual distribution of parcel post, without scheme knowledge”. This Arbitrator notes that Arbitrator Gamser stated: “[i]n the past, it is true, much of the parcel post operation was worked by Clerks.” Arbitrator Gamser stated, “[w]ithout scheme knowledge presently being required, the rational[e] for making [the parcel post operation] a primary clerk assignment no longer exists.” Arbitrator Gamser concluded that the evidence presented did not support a finding of a national practice. Arbitrator Gamser also found, with respect to the handling of non-machinable outsides, that such packages, which are too large, bulky or heavy to be processed by machine:
. . . are distributed, at present, through Bulk Mail Centers. The present method employed for their distribution does not require nor employ scheme knowledge. The testimony did indicate that such ‘parcels’ are brought to the distribution point by Mail Handlers and they are physically taken away by Mail Handlers. Requiring the intervention of a Clerk to direct the flow of such NMOs would interrupt the integration of such operations which may be achieved by having the same individuals handle the whole process of non-scheme NMO sortation.
Finally, this USS Award by Arbitrator Sharnoff contains several other rulings that should prove useful in future jurisdictional disputes. For example, the award contains extensive comments on the keying function performed by Mail Handler employees for rejected parcels on the USS. Similarly, the award concludes that the placement of parcels from the USS into appropriate containers matching the Zip Codes on each parcel – when completed by Mail Handlers without exercising any scheme knowledge – is appropriate sweeping of the USS that was appropriately assigned to the Mail Handler craft.
Attached is a full copy of the Sharnoff Award on USS jurisdiction.
Please disseminate this information as widely as you deem appropriate, and please do not hesitate to contact the National Office should you have any questions.
National Arbitration Decision on Universal Sorting System (USS) (pdf)
MAY 26, 2022
NPMHU and USPS Extend COVID-19 Test Kit Fulfillment Pilot
The COVID-19 Test Kit Fulfillment Pilot is scheduled to end on May 27, 2022. Since the Biden administration has made available a third round of free COVID-19 test kits for the public, the parties have agreed to extend this COVID-19 Test Kit Fulfillment Pilot for an additional 63 days ending July 29, 2022.
This pilot provides Mail Handlers with the opportunity to perform an essential Public Health Service to the American Public in our battle against the coronavirus pandemic. Mail Handlers are proud to be a part of these critical efforts.
Please find enclosed a copy of this MOU, which was signed today.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
Re: Memorandum of Understanding – Extension - COVID-19 Test Kit Fulfillment Pilot (pdf)
MAY 26, 2022
NPMHU and USPS Reach Agreement to Convert 230 MHAs
to Career Full-time Regular by July 22, 2022
Attached to this letter is a new MOU signed by the NPMHU and the Postal Service to provide for additional Mail Handler staffing by converting 230 Mail Handler Assistants to full-time regular career employment no later than July 22, 2022. Also attached is a chart listing the 17 installations in which these conversions will take place and the number of conversions that will take place in each listed installation.
Additionally, the parties have agreed to a Joint Question and Answer document addressing and affirming the parties’ mutual understanding and interpretation of the provisions contained in this MOU, which is also attached.
A copy of these documents will also be posted on the NPMHU website. Please do not hesitate to contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
Memorandum of Understanding Re: Additional Mail Handler Staffing &
Q&As on the MOU: Re: Additional Mail Handler Staffing - June 26, 2022 (pdf)
MAY 25, 2022
Brothers and Sisters,
Ten days ago: A shooting at a Tops Friendly Markets store targeting the Black community.
Yesterday: A shooting at Robb Elementary School targeting children.
Every day, our country loses people to gun violence.
What else is there to say?
Words aren’t enough; we must act. We must create laws that stop these preventable deaths.
This is a workplace issue.
This is a school issue.
This is a community issue.
That makes it a labor issue.
And we must act.
These mass shootings are a stark reminder of why the Senate must stop hiding behind arcane procedures to avoid preventing gun violence and take action.
Because working people deserve safe workplaces without fear of a mass shooting. And America’s children deserve to learn and thrive in safe schools.
In Solidarity,
Team AFL-CIO
MAY 19, 2022
NOTE: Image of tests is only representative. |
Additional
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March 25, 2022- Memorandum of Understanding - COVID-19 Test Kit Fulfillment Pilot MHA Retention Lists (pdf)
On May 17, 2022, the Biden Administration announced that COVIDTests.gov is now open for a third round of ordering. U.S. households are now able to order an additional eight free at-home tests at COVIDTests.gov—bringing the total number of free tests available to each household since the start of the program to 16. As the highly transmissible subvariants of Omicron drive a rise in cases in parts of the country, free and accessible tests will help slow the spread of the virus.
Here's what you need to know about your order:
Each order now includes 8 rapid antigen COVID-19 tests
Your order of 8 tests will come in 2 separate packages (4 tests in each package), each with its own tracking number
Packages will ship free
You can place your Test Kit order here.
As you know the USPS has contracted with the Biden administration to deliver 500 million COVID-19 Test Kits. To facilitate the federal government's efforts to deliver at-home COVID-19 test kits to American households, the Postal Service has established 43 fulfillment centers. As part of the contract, the 500 million Test Kits will be packed and labeled in those 43 facilities, which are identified as fulfillment centers.
The NPMHU and USPS negotiated a Memorandum of Understanding which established guidelines regarding the staffing of the fulfillment centers earlier this year. The parties previously agreed to extend the exception period for the hiring and continued employment of MHAs in excess of the 24.5% installation cap (up to the number listed in the agreement) in the identified installations. The MHAs, that were identified as being utilized for the pilot, were to be used solely for the purpose of performing the work of the pilot except for a three-week implementation period which began on January 1, 2022. The duration of the pilot was seventy-five days from January 12, 2022, which is March 27, 2022, unless extended by mutual agreement of the parties.
The parties have agreed to extend the COVID-19 Test Kit Fulfillment Pilot for an additional 60 days from March 28, 2022. In addition, the parties have agreed that the non-COVID related MHAs maintained above the cap in the locations identified on the attached list may also be used in other operations at the PSA, annex or host facility.
This pilot provides Mail Handlers with the opportunity to perform an essential Public Health Service to the American Public in our battle against the coronavirus pandemic. Mail Handlers are proud to be a part of these critical efforts.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
MAIL HANDLER UPDATE MAY 2022
MAY 11, 2022
NPMHU National Convention Website Goes Live
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Planning is well underway for the rescheduled 2020 National Convention, which is set to take place at the Hyatt Regency Denver-Convention Center in Denver, Colorado during the week of August 8, 2022. The theme for our rescheduled 2020 National Convention is “NPMHU – Believe and Achieve!” This theme reflects on the importance of our craft, our faith in the value of the work we do and the many triumphs of our organization. Mail Handlers are united in our economic, political, and workplace struggles. Together, in unity, we can overcome adversities: we must Believe and Achieve! |
NPMHU Convention Site (link)
MAY 5, 2022
COVID Command Center Termination Clarification/Modification
The USPS has decided to cease operations of its COVID Command center effective May 9, 2022. The Postal Service initially notified the NPMHU it would stop the recording and reporting of COVID-19 cases. The NPMHU and other postal unions believed that this decision was premature in that COVID-19 numbers and hospitalizations are slowly rising as of early May 2022, and there are many medical experts predicting a summer surge of COVID infections. The Postal Service has now issued a clarification/modification of its prior announcement:
" Although the COVID Command Team is being disbanded, as issues arise the appropriate stakeholder leadership will be engaged.
The Return to Work Protocols and our Close Contact Tracing activities will continue for as long as necessary.
All new cases of COVID 19 and Close Contact Quarantine will continue to be monitored and tracked in our HERO COVID 19 Tracker.
We can produce the report on a weekly basis.”
The NPMHU will continue to monitor the situation and take any action that may be necessary.
May 5, 2022 Memorandum (pdf)
MAY 3, 2022
USPS to Cease Operations of COVID Command Center
During the last 2 years the NPMHU and the USPS negotiated a series of MOUs to address COVID-19 and the impact that it had on all postal employees. These MOUs included the following:
* SLDC-Childcare
* Additional MHA Leave
* Temporary MHA Exception Periods
* Transfer MOU-COVID-19
* Step 3/Arbitration Extensions
A Liberal Leave Policy was also in effect regarding COVID-19 related absences. The Postal Service agreed that COVID-19 related absences would be considered “scheduled” and could not be used as a basis for discipline.
These MOUs and the Liberal Leave Policy were first negotiated in March 2020 and were extended ten Times (in May/July/September/December-2020, in March/June/September/December-2021, and in February/March-2022) and are scheduled to expire on May 6, 2022. The NPMHU and the USPS have mutually agreed not to extend the COVID-19 MOUs, and the Postal Service has unilaterally decided not to extend the Liberal Leave Policy.
The USPS also has decided to cease operations of its COVID Command center. This means that the Postal Service will stop the recording and reporting of COVID-19 cases. The NPMHU believes that this decision is premature in that COVID-19 numbers and hospitalizations are slowly rising as of early May 2022, and there are many medical experts predicting a summer surge of COVID infections. The NPMHU will continue to monitor the situation and take any action that may be necessary.
May 3, 2022 Memorandum (pdf)
APRIL 28, 2022 WORKERS MEMORIAL DAY
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Safe Jobs Now!
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In addition to the thousands of workers who have been victims of hazards, 1 million Americans and Canadians have now perished due to COVID-19, many of whom contracted the disease in the workplace. All too often working men and women have been exposed to unnecessary hazards and told that is the price of having a job. And, all too often, workers have been told to take it or leave it and are denied basic rights, including the right to join together in a union.
The strongest weapon against dangerous jobs and repression of rights has always been our union cards. When we are united, we are strong and proud, we have the power not to take it and not to leave it – and we are victorious.
On this Workers Memorial Day and on May Day, let us unite anew to strengthen our union and win the struggle for safer jobs, for workers’ rights, for civil rights and for human rights. Let us fight for the day when every job is a safe job and every worker has undeniable basic rights and freedoms.
May you always feel the power, be the power and use the power!
APRIL 20, 2022
TSP to Briefly Suspend Some Services
APRIL 18, 2022 LA P&DC INFORMATION PICKET
APRIL 18, 2022
USPS employees are required to reset Self Service Profile (SSP) password after April 24, 2022
All employees will be required to reset their Self Service Profile (SSP) password after the April 24, 2022 effective date, see the attached notification. If changed prior to April 24, 2022, it will have to be changed again as the system will require a reset of all passwords on April 24th.
The Self Service Password is used to access various resources to include: LiteBlue, PostalEase, ePayroll, eRetire, eOPF, eReassign, IdeaSmart and HERO. Employees will not have access to these applications until their password is reset.
Once reset, the password will be immediately available to access those applications.
The new password requirements are as follows:
- SSP passwords must be 15 characters in length.
- The last 5 passwords cannot be reused.
- The password cannot contain the employees first name, last name or the Employee Identification Number (EIN).
Memorandum to Local Presidents (March 22, 2022) pdf
APRIL 2022 MAIL HANDLER UPDATE
APRIL 7, 2022
Postal Service Reform Act Signed -- Step Forward for Postal Workers
Washington, D.C. (April 6, 2022) – Terry O’Sullivan, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – made the following statement (pdf)
LIUNA commends Congress and President Biden on passage of the Postal Service Reform Act into law, which will bring the Postal Service a step closer to fiscal stability and ensure greater security for the tens of thousands of Mailhandlers, who are members of LIUNA’s sister union, the National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU). The successful passage of this critical legislation is thanks to the tireless advocacy and determination of NPMHU National President Paul V. Hogrogian, the NPMHU National Executive Board, and all of the unions representing postal workers. |
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Over a decade of advocacy in the making, the Postal Service Reform Act will repeal the onerous 2006 mandate requiring the Postal Service to pre-fund its retiree healthcare benefits. No other private sector business or federal agency uses this practice, which has caused losses of $5 billion annually for over a decade. Second, it provides Medicare integration for future postal retirees and their annuitants. Most postal retirees already participate in Medicare, and postal employees have contributed $34 billion to the program since 1983. USPS estimates that integration combined with the repeal of the pre-funding mandate will generate savings of $40 billion over ten years.
Additionally, the Postal Service Reform Act helps to stabilize service and provide avenues for revenue growth by codifying six-day delivery service and allowing USPS to make agreements to provide non-commercial services. The bill will also give greater transparency to postal customers to ensure that service meets the demands of American households and businesses.
LIUNA commends Congress and President Biden for recognizing the value of the Postal Service and its dedicated workforce by taking these crucial steps to protect this vital institution.
The half-million members of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – are on the forefront of the construction industry, a powerhouse of workers who are proud to build the United States and Canada.
APRIL 5, 2022
Notice of Planned Maintenance of the Human Capital Enterprise System (HCES)
As a matter of general interest, required system maintenance of the Human Capital Enterprise System (HCES) is scheduled to begin Friday, April 15th at 6:00 a.m. Central Standard Time. This maintenance is scheduled to conclude by Monday, April 18 at 6:00 a.m. Central Standard Time.
During this time period, the following applications will be impacted:
eCareer – both internal and external applicants
Job Bidding – both web-based and telephonic
Employee Self-Service/Manager’ Portal (e.g., name and address changes)
Kiosk services (e.g., bidding, address changes)
Employee Health and Safety (EHS)
Please plan accordingly.
Notice of Planned Maintenance of the Human Capital Enterprise System (HCES) (pdf)
APRIL 1, 2022
MEMBERS MAY SUBMIT PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
AND RESOLUTIONS IN ADVANCE OF NATIONAL CONVENTION
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS JUNE 10, 2022
Any member or group of members of the NPMHU who wish to submit proposals for consideration by the delegates at the 2020 National Convention must follow the requirements set forth in the NPMHU National Constitution.
As set forth in Article XII of the National Union Constitution, the delegates to the 2020 National Convention will consider and vote upon amendments to both the NPMHU National Constitution and the Uniform Local Union Constitution that governs all Local Unions affiliated with the NPMHU.
In addition, the current National Constitution also sets forth the governing procedure for the consideration of resolutions, whether related to legislation or other topics of interest to mail handlers. Should you have any constitutional amendments or resolutions that you would like to propose, please be sure to follow the procedures set forth in Article XII of the National Constitution. The rescheduled opening of the National Convention is now set for Monday, August 8, 2022. Therefore, all submissions must be received at the National Office no later than Friday, June 10, 2022, which is sixty days prior to the opening of the National Convention. The address for submitting any proposed amendments or resolutions is:
NPMHU 2020 National Convention
815 16th Street NW, Suite 5100
Washington, DC 20006 Proposals may also be submitted by fax to the National Office at 202-833-0008
Together with your proposal, it would be best if you also explained the purpose of your proposal and the reasoning thereof. In this way, the Committees reviewing all submissions will understand your intent in making the proposal. Such explanations are not required, however, as long as you submit your proposals on or before the June 10, 2022, deadline.
Page 11- Winter Edition Mail Handler Magazine (pdf)
MARCH 31, 2022
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Workers Memorial Day APRIL 28, 2022
Decades of struggle by working people and our unions have improved working conditions and made jobs safer, but it has not been enough. This year we are coming together to strengthen our rights and protections to ensure everyone can come home safely at the end of a work shift—and without chronic illnesses from toxic exposures at work.
MARCH 30, 2022
MARCH 29, 2022
Parties Renew MOU re: Annual Leave Carryover
and Annual Leave Exchange Option
March 29, 2022 - Please find linked here, a copy of two new Memoranda of Understanding that expands annual leave benefits for the 2022 leave year. (pdf)
The first MOU allows for additional Annual Leave Carryover for the 2022 Leave Year. In the 2019 National Agreement, the MOU on Annual Leave Carryover allows regular work force employees to carryover 440 hours of accumulated annual leave. The new MOU on Annual Leave Carryover for Leave Year 2023 expands that limit and allows regular work force employees to carryover 520 hours of accumulated leave from leave year 2022 to leave year 2023.
The second MOU deals with the Annual Leave Exchange Option for the 2023 Leave Year. The Annual Leave Exchange Option MOU for Leave Year 2022 will allow career employees to sell back a maximum of 80 hours of annual leave prior to the beginning of the leave year provided the following criteria is met: 1) The employee must be at the maximum leave carryover ceiling (440 hours) at the start of the leave year and 2) the employee must have used fewer than 75 sick leave hours (excluding emergency sick leave taken under the Family First Coronavirus Response Act) in the 2022 leave year. Normally the maximum amount of hours that may be sold back under the 2019 National Agreement MOU on Annual Leave Exchange Option is limited to 40 hours.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
MARCH 29, 2022
USPS Issues
Revised Face Covering Policy
With the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases continuing to decline across the country, state, local and tribal jurisdictions have revised their pandemic mitigation measures and have stopped their mandatory face covering policies and social distancing practices. The Postal Service has decided to align with these national changes.
Effective immediately, the Postal Service will no longer require any postal employee to wear a face covering while at work. All previous Postal Service face covering policies are rescinded. Employees may continue to voluntarily wear a mask or face covering if they are so inclined. Should you have any questions, contact the Contract Administration Department
March 29, 2022 Memorandum (pdf)
MARCH 28, 2022
NPMHU and USPS Extend MHA Exception Period in Exchange for 1,202 Conversions to Career Status
Memorandum of Understanding Re: Additional Mail Handler Staffing – March 25, 2022 (pdf)
Q&As on the MOU: Re: Additional Mail Handler Staffing – March 25, 2022 (See page 5 of 5)
Linked above, please find a new MOU signed by the NPMHU and the Postal Service to provide for additional Mail Handler staffing by converting 1,202 Mail Handler Assistants to full-time regular career employment no later than May 21, 2022.
Also included is a chart listing the 42 installations in which these 1,202 conversions will take place and the number of conversions that will take place in each listed installation. As set forth in the MOU, the Postal Service has agreed to convert 1,202 MHAs to career status, in the listed installations, by May 21, 2022.
In exchange, the parties agree to extend the exception period for the continued employment of MHAs (those hired for reasons unrelated to COVID-19) in excess of the 24.5% installation cap, in the listed facilities until June 3, 2022. MHAs hired in excess of the 24.5% installation cap for COVID related reasons remain subject to a separate MOU.
Additionally, the parties have agreed to a joint Question and Answer document addressing and affirming the parties’ mutual understanding and interpretation of the provisions contained in this MOU. Please do not hesitate to contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
MARCH 25, 2022
NPMHU and USPS Agree to Extension of Various COVID Related Memoranda
Re: Extension of Various COVID Related Memoranda (pdf)
Please find linked above, a copy of the MOU extending the following memoranda through May 6, 2022:
1. MOU – Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID – 19
2. MOU – Temporary Exception Period – COVID – 19 * Revised March 19, 2021
3. Liberal Changes of Schedule and Leave Letter dated March 23, 2020.
4. MOU – Temporary Additional Leave for MHAs – Newly hired MHAs, hired after the signing of this agreement, will be permitted to use up to 80 hours of paid leave for the reasons provided for in the original March 18, 2020 MOU – Temporary Paid Leave for MHAs, it does not provide an additional 80 hours for existing MHAs. Those MHAs already hired prior to the signing of this extension who only used a portion or none of the 80 hours leave from the original MOU, will be entitled to utilize the remainder of the 80 hours that was left over.
5. Re: Appointment Opportunities for MHAs Separated for Lack of Work ** Revised December 20, 2021
6. Temporary Extension on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
MARCH 25, 2022
NPMHU and USPS Renew COVID-19 Test Kit Memorandum
Memorandum of Understanding - COVID-19 Test Kit Fulfillment Pilot MHA Retention Lists (pdf)
As you know the USPS has contracted with the Biden administration to deliver 500 million COVID-19 Test Kits. To facilitate the federal government's efforts to deliver at-home COVID-19 test kits to American households, the Postal Service has established 43 fulfillment centers. As part of the contract, the 500 million Test Kits will be packed and labeled in those 43 facilities, which are identified as fulfillment centers.
The NPMHU and USPS negotiated a Memorandum of Understanding which established guidelines regarding the staffing of the fulfillment centers earlier this year. The parties previously agreed to extend the exception period for the hiring and continued employment of MHAs in excess of the 24.5% installation cap (up to the number listed in the agreement) in the identified installations. The MHAs, that were identified as being utilized for the pilot, were to be used solely for the purpose of performing the work of the pilot except for a three-week implementation period which began on January 1, 2022. The duration of the pilot was seventy-five days from January 12, 2022, which is March 27, 2022, unless extended by mutual agreement of the parties.
The parties have agreed to extend the COVID-19 Test Kit Fulfillment Pilot for an additional 60 days from March 28, 2022. In addition, the parties have agreed that the non-COVID related MHAs maintained above the cap in the locations identified on the attached list may also be used in other operations at the PSA, annex or host facility.
This pilot provides Mail Handlers with the opportunity to perform an essential Public Health Service to the American Public in our battle against the coronavirus pandemic. Mail Handlers are proud to be a part of these critical efforts.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
MARCH 2022 UPDATE
MARCH 11, 2022
NPMHU Supports Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
Welcome to our 2022 JDRF One Walk Team Page! The National Postal Mail Handlers Union has been a sponsor and a participant of the JDRF Walk to cure diabetes for over 25 years and we will continue to walk until Type One becomes Type None!
This year our walk will be held on Sunday, May 8, 2022. We encourage everyone to get registered and participate in the Miles Towards Mission leading up to the walk.
You can log any miles walked in your participant center. So sign-up and get your walk on. Even if you can't walk with us, we still need your support. A dollar here and there adds up, no matter how small you may think it is, to someone with Diabetes it's a huge gift.
Thank you in advance for your support. If you can't make it in person, we still need your support.
Please visit the Mail Handlers JDRF One Walk team page and donate today.
JDRF 2022 One Walk Flyer (pdf) March 2, 2022
NPMHU's solicitation of financial support (pdf)
THE MAIL HANDLER (WINTER 2022)
CLICK ON COVER (ABOVE) TO REVIEW IT
MARCH 8, 2022
Statement of National President Paul V. Hogrogian on the
Senate Passage of the Postal Service Reform Act
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union and its allies have worked for well over a decade to bring comprehensive, bipartisan postal reform to the halls of Congress. This work resulted in the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022, H.R. 3076. As my NPMHU brothers and sisters remember, the bill passed with overwhelming support in the House of Representatives by a vote of 342-92 on February 8. The Senate followed suit, and passed it on March 8, with 79 Senators voting in favor of it.
The Postal Service Reform Act repeals the burdensome 2006 mandate for the USPS to prefund its retiree healthcare benefits and aligns retiree healthcare with the best practices in the private sector that lower premiums for NPMHU members and our fellow postal employees as well as safeguarding benefits. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the legislation will save the federal government over $1.5 billion over the next ten years.
Senators Gary Peters and Rob Portman worked tirelessly and fervently with Democratic and Republican members alike to reach consensus on this important and necessary legislation. I am grateful for their work, as well as that of Representatives Carolyn Maloney and James Comer, who ushered H.R. 3076 through the House.
I look forward to President Biden signing this bill into law, and providing the Postal Service with much needed fiscal stability.
Statement of National President Paul V. Hogrogian on the Senate Passage of the Postal Service Reform Act (pdf)
MARCH 3, 2022
Place Your Second Order for Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests
Starting next week, U.S. households will be able to place a total of #2 separate orders for free, at-home COVID-19 rapid tests (#4 tests per order). If an order was previously placed for your address, please check back then to place a second order.
FEBRUARY 2022 UPDATE
FEBRUARY 10, 2022
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) set at $1,331
Effective February 26, 2022, (Pay Period 06-2022) all career Mail Handler craft employees are scheduled to receive a cost-of-living (COLA) adjustment as outlined in Article 9.3 of the 2019 National Agreement.
This is the fifth of six possible COLA increases under the terms of the current agreement.
This COLA increase is based on the upward change in the relevant Consumer Price Index (CPI) following release of the January 2022 Index, using the July 2019 CPI index as a base provides an annual increase of $1,331 for all Steps in Table 1 and for Step P of Table 2.
The remaining Steps in Table 2 will receive the proportional COLA increase percentages as outlined in Article 9.3 of the National Agreement. Updated wage charts will be posted when available.
FEBRUARY 10, 2022
Show Your Support - Pass H.R. 3076,
the Postal Service Reform Act
Add your name and tell your senators to pass the Postal Service Reform Act.
Following years of debate to build consensus, it is time to pass this vital and carefully constructed legislation, a bipartisan compromise bill that will bring financial stability to the Postal Service.
The legislation includes key provisions of importance to the men and women who are the backbone of the Postal Service. First, H.R. 3076 eliminates the mandate that the Postal Service pre-fund its retiree health care benefits decades in advance, a requirement asked of no other public or private agency. Second, this legislation adopts private-sector best practice by maximizing the integration of postal annuitants into Medicare—a program to which the Postal Service and its workers have contributed more than $34 billion.
Additionally, the legislation benefits the public by codifying the mandate to provide six-day mail delivery, which has been required by an Appropriation rider since the 1980s. Some 159 million business and residential customers rely on six-day delivery.
The Postal Service is a vital public institution, self-sustaining and non-taxpayer-funded. Enactment of this legislation will restore and strengthen its financial stability, allowing it to improve service and respond to the evolving needs of American businesses and the families it serves.
All NPMHU members are encouraged to take part in the political process, however, you must remain aware of the restrictions on political activities that are imposed by the Hatch Act. While postal and federal employees are allowed to participate in a wide range of political activities, no political activity can be done while on postal property or on postal time and ".gov" email accounts cannot be used to register. For more information and further guidance on the Hatch Act, please visit the NPMHU website.
FEBRUARY 8, 2022
Statement of National President Paul V. Hogrogian
on the Passage of the Postal Service Reform Act
After more than a decade of working with our union brothers and sisters, postal management, Democrats, and Republicans, the NPMHU is pleased to announce that the House of Representatives passed the Postal Service Reform Act, H.R. 3076, on February 8, 2022.
Because of dedicated and collaborative work between and among stakeholders, we are now one step closer to fiscal stability for the United States Postal Service.
While the bill is narrow in scope, it addresses the largest financial burdens of the USPS.
First, it repeals the 2006 mandate requiring the Postal Service to prefund its retiree healthcare benefits. No other private sector business or federal agency uses this practice, and it is the cause of annual losses of $5 billion a year for over a decade. In the 116th Congress, members of the House passed a standalone bill to address this onerous issue.
Second, it provides Medicare integration for future postal retirees and their annuitants. The majority of postal retirees already participate in Medicare, and postal employees have contributed $34 billion to the program since 1983. USPS estimates integration as well as the repeal of the prefunding mandate would generate savings of $40 billion over ten years.
Additionally, H.R. 3076 helps to stabilize service and provide avenues for revenue growth by codifying six-day delivery and allowing for agreements with state, local, and tribal governments to provide noncommercial services. Furthermore, the bill offers greater transparency to postal customers to ensure that service meets the demands of American households and businesses.
This bill does not fix every problem with the Postal Service. But it shows the dedicated work of elected officials, recognizing the value of the Postal Service and its dedicated workforce.
I urge the Senate to now act, and take up the House-passed legislation, to protect the viability of this invaluable institution.
NPMHU National President Paul V. Hogrogian Statement on Passage of H.R. 3076, the Postal Service Reform Act (pdf)
FEBRUARY 8, 2022
Notice of Human Capital Enterprise System (HCES) Planned Outage
The USPS' Human Capital Enterprise System (HCES) is the automated system that is used by the Postal Service to handle day to day personnel transactions related to hiring, promotions, bidding, retirements, etc. We have been notified that HCES is scheduled for its regular yearly system upgrade outage as shown below. During this outage HCES will be unavailable for bidding. Please plan accordingly.
Start Date – 04/14/2022
Start time – Evening
End Date – 04/18/2022
End time – 06:00 am
FEBRUARY 4, 2022
NPMHU and USPS Agree to Extension of Various COVID Memoranda
MOU – Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID– 19
MOU – Temporary Exception Period – COVID – 19
* Revised March 19, 2021 Liberal Changes of Schedule and Leave Letter dated March 23, 2020.
MOU – Temporary Additional Leave for MHAs – Newly hired MHAs, hired after the signing of this agreement, will be permitted to use up to 80 hours of paid leave for the reasons provided for in the original March 18, 2020
MOU – Temporary Paid Leave for MHAs, it does not provide an additional 80 hours for existing MHAs. Those MHAs already hired prior to the signing of this extension who only used a portion or none of the 80 hours leave from the original MOU, will be entitled to utilize the remainder of the 80 hours that was left over.
Re: Reappointment Opportunities for MHAs Separated for Lack of Work** Revised December 20, 2021 Temporary Extension on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
Please find linked here, a copy of the MOU extending the following memoranda through April 8, 2022 (pdf)
FEBRUARY 3, 2022
Arbitrator Sharnoff Rules on AFCS Legacy Operator
Memorandum to Local Presidents re: Jurisdictional Determination re: Operator Position on Advanced Facer Canceller System (AFCS) Legacy Machines (pdf)
Linked here, please find a copy of National Arbitrator Sharnoff’s decision on the dispute concerning the Advanced Facer Canceller System (AFCS) Legacy machine. (pdf)
We linked above, an arbitration decision issued by National RI-399 Arbitrator Joseph Sharnoff with regard to the Advanced Facer Canceller System. It is extremely long – 164 single-spaced pages – and thus extremely difficult to describe.
The arbitrator rejected the claims filed the NPMHU, and upheld the Postal Service’s revised jurisdictional determination for the Operator position on the AFCS Legacy Machines. In short, however, the decision rejects the jurisdictional disputes filed by both the APWU and the NPMHU, and upholds the positions taken by USPS management in all respects.
Unfortunately, of most importance to the NPMHU, Arbitrator Sharnoff has concluded that the Postal Service did not abuse its discretion or act arbitrarily when it shifted the operator position on the AFCS-200 to the clerk craft in 2012. Sharnoff summed up his rationale using the following words:
The Arbitrator finds, in light of the above considerations, that the USPS’s craft determination in 2012, for the Operator position on the AFCS 200, in favor of the Clerk Craft, reasonably was based on appropriate considerations, including the information known to the USPS officials at the time, and was consistent with the RI-399 Guidelines, previous Jurisdictional Arbitration Awards, and the Parties’ respective CBAs. The Arbitrator is not persuaded that it has been demonstrated by the NPMHU that this craft determination was arbitrary, capricious, unreasonable, based on discriminatory or other improper considerations, or otherwise was contrary to the USPS’s exercise of discretion to make such determinations under the RI-399 Guidelines. Accordingly, the claim that the craft determination for the Operator position in favor of the Clerk Craft is denied.
At risk of stating the obvious, it is worth pointing out that under the principles of Regional Instruction (RI-399), not one time in the history of jurisdictional disputes, has an arbitrator issued a ruling that required the United States Postal Service to reverse their initial or revised jurisdictional determination.
Please do not hesitate to contact the National Office should you have any questions.
FEBRUARY 2, 2022
NPMHU and USPS Sign MOU Regarding the COVID-19 Test Kit
Fulfillment Pilot MHA Retention Lists
The parties have agreed to a new Memorandum of Understanding regarding the COVID-19 Test Kit Fulfillment Pilot MHA Retention Lists. In this MOU, the parties have agreed that MHAs hired specifically for the COVID-19 test kit fulfillment pilot outlined in the January 12, 2022, Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) may be canvassed from a retention list of another installation. However, MHAs on the retention list of the bid cluster/installation with the annex will be exhausted prior to canvassing from another installation or utilizing employees from another craft.
If hired as a result of this canvas, the MHA will retain his/her spot on the retention list of their original installation for a period of no more than two (2) years from the date of their separation and will retain their original relative standing date if reappointed. If the MHA declines to return to the original installation during that two (2) year period, he/she will be removed from the retention list.
The MHA will begin a new relative standing date at the new installation. If the MHA is separated for lack of work from the new installation, he/she will also be included on the retention list of the new installation for a period of no more than two (2) years from the date of separation from the new installation. If the MHA is still on the retention list of the original installation, he/she will be included on the retention lists of both installations.
Re: Memorandum of Understanding - COVID-19 Test Kit Fulfillment Pilot MHA Retention Lists (pdf)
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
JANUARY 31, 2022
NPMHU & USPS Reach Settlement on Safety Ambassador Program
Please find linked here, a Step 4 resolution on the Safety Ambassador Program (pdf)
As complete resolution of the case, the Parties agreed that the Safety Ambassador program will be discontinued. Formal notification of the discontinuation will be provided to the NPMHU by Labor Relations, Policies and Programs. In addition, all materials concerning the Safety Ambassador Program will be removed from circulation.
Please disseminate this information, as you deem appropriate and should you have any questions or concerns, please contact this office.
JANUARY 2022 UPDATE
Due to the perfect storm of the Omicron variant and holiday gatherings, the COVID-19 numbers are spiking. The system put in place by management to protect employees from the spread of the virus crumbled under the increase of USPS employees testing positive for the virus. After two years of this pandemic, members wonder how they will pay their bills if they are forced to quarantine.
JANUARY 18, 2022
Get free at-home COVID-19 tests
Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order #44 free at-home COVID-19 tests. The tests are completely free. Orders will usually ship in 7-12 days. Order your tests now so you have them when you need them.
If you need a COVID-19 test now, please see other testing resources for free testing locations in your area.
About the at-home COVID-19 tests The tests available for order: Are rapid antigen at-home tests, not PCR Can be taken anywhere Give results within 30 minutes (no lab drop-off required) Work whether or not you have COVID-19 symptoms Work whether or not you are up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines Are also referred to self-tests or over-the-counter (OTC) tests Read more frequently asked questions.
JANUARY 17, 2022
Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
A Message From LIUNA General President Terry O'Sullivan
As we observe the national holiday honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., it is clear that in order to realize his dream of an America free of the scourge of racism and extremism, we must continue the work he began. We must fight for the world he envisioned, in which people are measured only by their character and by their actions.
As united trade unionists, we are at the forefront of the work that must be done. Dr. King, who saw labor unions as a key to achieving a more just society, said, "The labor movement was the principal force that transformed misery and despair into hope and progress." I share his conviction. We must make our unions bigger, stronger and more active, so the uplifting and equalizing power of collective bargaining contracts are available to all. We must speak out forcefully and unequivocally against bias, bigotry and racism whether it is in our community or in our halls of power, from statehouses to the Halls of Congress and the White House.
We can make Dr. King’s dream real so that every American, regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender, wealth or the lack of it, has equal rights and equal opportunity including our sacred right to vote which must be accessible to all. But we have to act to achieve his dream.
On behalf of myself, General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni, and the entire LIUNA General Executive Board, I ask you to join me in continuing to fight for the legacy of Dr. King and his vision of a better America.
JANUARY 12, 2022
Re: OWCP Claims for COVID-19
This week COVID-19 hospitalizations in the United States reached a record high surpassing the previous record fromover a year ago. During the recent surge in COVID-19 infections caused by the Omicron variant the National Office hasreceived a number of emails and phone calls from Officers and members regarding the impact of the American RescuePlan Act (ARPA) and its remaining impact on employee FECA compensation.
JANUARY 12, 2022
Make the Call → Protect Voting Rights
American democracy is under threat today. To save it, we need democracy in the U.S. Senate.
That means passing the Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act.
It shouldn’t be this hard to pass laws that help people. It should be a simple 50-vote majority, but an outdated procedure in the U.S. Senate called the filibuster is stopping us.
The choice is clear: Sideline the filibuster, not the hopes, aspirations and representation of America’s people.
Use the link to the form to call your United States Senator and urge them to Sideline the Filibuster.
Sponsored by AFL-CIO
JANUARY 12, 2022
USPS and White House Contract to Deliver 500 Million COVID-19 Test Kits to American Households
Memorandum of Understanding - COVID-19 Test Kit Fulfillment Pilot (pdf)
The USPS has contracted with the Biden administration to deliver 500 million COVID-19 Test Kits. To facilitate the federal government's efforts to deliver at-home COVID-19 test kits to American households, the Postal Service will establish 43 fulfillment centers. As part of the contract, the 500 million Test Kits will be packed and labeled in the 43 facilities, which are identified as fulfillment centers in the attached agreement.
The NPMHU and USPS negotiated a Memorandum of Understanding which establish guidelines regarding the staffing of the fulfillment centers. The parties have agreed to extend the exception period for the hiring and continued employment of MHAs in excess of the 24.5% installation cap (up to the number listed in the agreement) in the identified installations. The MHAs, identified as being utilized for the pilot, will be used solely for the purpose of performing the work of the pilot except for a three-week implementation period which began on January 1, 2022. The duration of the pilot will be seventy-five days from January 12, 2022, unless extended by mutual agreement of the parties.
This pilot provides Mail Handlers with the opportunity to perform an essential Public Health Service to the American Public in our battle against the coronavirus pandemic. Mail Handlers are proud to be a part of these critical efforts.
Please find linked here, a copy of this MOU, which was signed today. (pdf)
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
JANUARY 6, 2022
USPS Issues Update to Isolation/Quarantine Policy, and Close Contact Tracing Program
Please find linked below, a copy of the notification that we received from the Postal Service today on its change to the Isolation/Quarantine Policy and the Close Contact Tracing Policy due to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently updating its recommended guidance for isolation and quarantine periods.
MEMO: Update on COVID Isolation/Quarantine Policy and COVID Close Contact Tracing (pdf)
OSHA COVID RTW Guidance (pdf)
Criteria for Return to Work for Employees after an absence related to COVID-19 (pdf)
COVID Supervisor Checklist (pdf)
USPS Close Contract Tracing Program (pdf)
JANUARY 4, 2022
USPS Seeks Temporary Variance on COVID-19
Vaccination and Testing; Emergency Temporary Standard
Janurary 4, 2022 Memorandum to Local Presidents (pdf)
Mandatory Stand Up Talk on Temporary COVID 19 Vaccination Variance Request (pdf)
Please find linked above, a copy of the notification that we received from the Postal Service today on its plans to file a request for Temporary Variance from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s “COVID – 19 Vaccination and Testing: Emergency Temporary Standard.” The Postal Service also plans to request an Interim Order allowing an alternate means of protection, on a temporary basis, until OSHA renders a final decision on its Variance Application. Those alternate means would be the Postal Service’s existing COVID – 19 mitigation policies and protocols.
Also included, is a copy of the Variance Application and request for Interim Order that will be filed with OSHA this week.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
JANUARY 4, 2022
USPS Issues Mandatory Stand Up Talk on Temporary COVID 19 Vaccination Variance Request
THE MAIL HANDLER FALL 2021
DECEMBER 23, 2021
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There is no doubt that we continue to grapple with great challenges; including the COVID-19 pandemic, which for many has caused great personal loss and struggles, unlike few we have ever faced.
Yet, despite these difficult times, I am certain that our best days lie ahead. As has always been the case, it is the strong, proud and united brothers and sisters of LIUNA and the entire union movement, who will carry us through tough times. While facing this historic health crisis, LIUNA has remained strong and steadfast, continuing to grow and strengthen the foundation first laid more than a century ago. Across the U.S. and Canada, the hard work, commitment and discipline of our half-million members remains unrivaled and is our single greatest strength. We are as able today as ever to fight for good jobs, good pay and the benefits necessary to sustain our families and keep our nations strong.
On behalf of myself, General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni and the entire General Executive Board, I wish you Happy Holidays and a safe, healthy, and prosperous 2022.
LOCAL 303 2021 PEAK SEASON HOLIDAY MESSAGE
DECEMBER 22, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Sign MOU
on Temporary Extensions of Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals
Re: MOU on Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals (pdf)
Please find linked above, a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Temporary Extension on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals. Due to the impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the parties have agreed to extend the time limits for appealing grievances to Step 3 and to arbitration for an additional period.
This agreement is effective through February 11, 2022. Prior to the expiration of this agreement, the parties will revisit this issue to determine if an additional extension is warranted. If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department or your Regional Director.
DECEMBER 21, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Reach Agreement on Renewed
Extension of Various COVID Related Memoranda
Please find link below, a copy of the MOU extending the following memoranda through February 11, 2022:
MOU – Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID – 19
MOU – Temporary Exception Period – COVID – 19 * Revised March 19, 2021 Liberal Changes of Schedule and Leave Letter dated March 23, 2020.
MOU – Temporary Additional Leave for MHAs – Newly hired MHAs, hired after the signing of this agreement, will be permitted to use up to 80 hours of paid leave for the reasons provided for in the original March 18, 2020 MOU – Temporary Paid Leave for MHAs, it does not provide an additional 80 hours for existing MHAs. Those MHAs already hired prior to the signing of this extension who only used a portion or none of the 80 hours leave from the original MOU, will be entitled to utilize the remainder of the 80 hours that was left over.
MOU – Reappointment Opportunities for MHAs Separated for Lack of Work **Revised December 20, 2021
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
Extension of Various COVID Related Memoranda
DECEMBER 16, 2021
AFL-CIO and NPMHU Support
UNION DISASTER RELIEF Through United Way of Kentucky
You have all no doubt seen the news coverage of the devastation wrought last weekend by the tornado that tore through multiple states, killing dozens, including many workers while they were on the job.
Communities in Kentucky appear to have been hardest hit, and the Kentucky AFL-CIO, Greater Louisville Central Labor Council and the United Way of Kentucky are working together to provide assistance to union families in need.
If you would like to help, you can contribute in one of two ways:
Check
To make a contribution by check please make the check payable to: United Way of Kentucky and include on the memo line: UNION DISASTER RELIEF. It is essential that UNION DISASTER RELIEF is included on the memo line of the check. Checks can be sent to: United Way of Kentucky, P.O. Box 4653, Louisville, KY 40204-0653.
Credit Card or Bank Transfer
To make a contribution by either credit card or bank transfer, please use this link: https://www.uwky.org/aflcio
If you have any questions, please reach out to AFL-CIO Director of United Way Worldwide Partnership/Labor Community Services Kristie Small at ksmall@aflcio.org or 202-215-7341.
DECEMBER 10, 2021
USPS Response to Sexual Harassment Complaints
The USPS Office of Inspector General is starting a new audit on the USPS Response to Sexual Harassment complaints which will evaluate the Postal Service’s response to sexual harassment complaints involving postal employees to include how the complaints are investigated, handled and resolved. The OIG has asked us to share this with our members, as they looking for feedback, comments and thoughts from employees. These can be made anonymously.
Please note that Audit Asks are intended to collect ongoing feedback for audit projects. You may also choose to anonymize your comment by not including your contact information. If you add contact information for the OIG audit team when submitting your comment, it will not be posted on the website.
1. Are you aware of the processes for reporting complaints of sexual harassment in the USPS workplace? Please describe your understanding of how USPS employees can submit a sexual harassment complaint.
2. If you have reported sexual harassment at the USPS, please describe your experience with the complaint reporting process. What actions did the Postal Service take to respond to your complaint?
3. If you have experienced sexual harassment at the USPS but did not report it, please tell us why you decided not to file a complaint.
4. What comments or concerns, if any, do you have about how the Postal Service responds to sexual harassment complaints?
Here is the link:
How Effectively Does the USPS Respond to Sexual Harassment Complaints? USPS Office of Inspector General (uspsoig.gov)..
| 303 Report Harassment Flier |
DECEMBER 3, 2021
DECEMBER 2021 MAIL HANDLER UPDATE
NOVEMBER 29, 2021
NEW MOU ANNUAL LEAVE CARRYOVER FOR LEAVE YEAR 2022
AND ANNUAL LEAVE EXCHANGE OPTION FOR 2022
NOVEMBER 29, 2021
USPS Issues Memo on Juneteenth National Independence Day
Please find linked copy of a memo from USPS Deputy Postmaster General and Chief Human Resources Officer Doug Tulino regarding the recognition of the Juneteenth National Independence Day beginning in 2022. If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
USPS Issues Memo on Juneteenth National Independence Day
NOVEMBER 24, 2021
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Thanksgiving is a special time of year when we are able to spend time with those most precious to us and count our blessings. I want to thank each and every LIUNA member for all that you do to grow and strengthen this great international union. It is through your strength, dedication, and activism to fight alongside your brothers and sisters that our union continues to thrive and prosper.
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We continue to face struggles and challenges as the pandemic persists; impacting our safety, our economy, and our ability to be with our families and friends. Many of us have experienced loss and tragedies as a result of COVID-19 and the way we live has been changed in unsettling ways.
But despite these challenges, it is our unity, solidarity and our bond to each other that will see us through. It has always been working people and their unions that have led in overcoming hardship, and we will do so again. I am personally thankful and proud of your perseverance and commitment. Your efforts on the job and in your communities are second to none. You build and strengthen not only this union, but your country.
On behalf of myself, General-Secretary Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni and the entire General Executive Board, I wish all of our proud, strong, and united Canadian brothers and sisters of LIUNA a Happy Thanksgiving.
NOVEMBER 23, 2021
Mail Handlers to Receive Wage Increase Effective November 20, 2021
As provided for in Article 9.1 of the NPMHU 2019 National Agreement, the wage scales for all Mail Handler employees will be adjusted upward effective November 20, 2021. This is the third of three guaranteed wage increases provided for in the 2019 contract. Specifically, with regard to career employees: Effective November 20, 2021 – the basic annual salary for each grade and step of Table One and Table Two shall be increased by an amount equal to 1.0% of the basic annual salary for the grade and step in effect on September 20, 2019.
In addition to the general increases provided in Section 9.1 above, MHAs will receive an increase of 1.0% annually, for a total of 2.1% effective November 23, 2019, 2.0% effective November 21, 2020, and 2.0% effective November 20, 2021.
Click here to view or download a chart which reflects the new wage rates, for both career and MHA Mail Handlers, resulting from these November 20, 2021 contractual increases.
Consistent with Article XIV, Section 3 of the NPMHU National Constitution, we will be implementing a regular membership dues increase of one dollar ($1.00) per pay period to correspond with the third guaranteed wage increase provided for in the 2019 National Agreement. We are attempting to time the dues increase to coincide with the wage increase that is effective on November 20, 2021 (Pay Period 25) to be reflected in paychecks issued on December 12, 2021.
NOVEMBER 15, 2021
NPMHU ARTHUR S. VALLONE NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (2022-2023)
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union is pleased to offer the opportunity for career craft members of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, and members of their immediate families, to apply for scholarship assistance from the NPMHU Arthur S. Vallone National Scholarship Program.
Specific eligibility requirements for the program are detailed here.
2022 Health Benefits Update
NOVEMBER 11, 2021
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A Solemn Salute to Our Armed ForcesDespite the many challenges we face to overcome the pandemic and rebuild our economies, there is one steady, constant and true strength in the United States and Canada: the honor, courage and integrity of the men and women who serve and have served in our armed forces.
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On this Veterans Day and Remembrance Day we salute our veterans. It is their achievements and sacrifices – many of them LIUNA members and loved ones of LIUNA members – that form the bedrock of our safety and protection. There is no praise or expression of gratitude too great for those who protect our freedom and democracy, forfeiting time with their families, and spending countless days far from home. Many veterans have been wounded, taken prisoner or made the ultimate sacrifice with their lives.
Time and time again they have answered the call for Americans, for Canadians and for people around the world. To truly honor and respect our veterans, it is up to each of us to fight to ensure that when they return home, they and their families have access to health care and economic opportunities. Too often, veterans must struggle to meet their basic needs when their service ends. Veterans should be able to return to their families to live in prosperity with good family-supporting jobs and access to top-notch health care.
On behalf of myself, General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni, the entire LIUNA General Executive Board, and each of the half-million men and women of LIUNA, I thank the veterans in our lives, in our union and in our countries. We are in their debt.
WATCH THE 2021 NPMHU ORGANIZING VIDEO
NOVEMBER 8, 2021
The NPMHU relies on the collective strength of its membership to continue the struggle for a better workplace. We respectfully ask that you join us in these worthwhile efforts.
On behalf of nearly 50,000 active members of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU), we ask that you take a few minutes to review this brochure, which highlights some of the reasons that we believe you should join the NPMHU. We encourage you to join your fellow mail handlers in the fight to preserve the United States Postal Service, and in the continuing struggle to obtain and secure higher wages, increased benefits, and improved working conditions.
Without the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, and its thousands of dedicated representatives – who are working day in, and day out, to protect your interests – Mail Handlers certainly would not enjoy the level of job security, anti-discrimination protection, seniority consideration, wages, benefits, or safety and health protections that are currently in place. The National Postal Mail Handlers Union has been in the trenches – for many decades – fighting to obtain, and protect, these important benefits.
The NPMHU relies on the collect strength of its membership to continue the struggle for a better workplace. We respectfully ask that you join us in these worthwhile efforts. To become a member of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, complete a Form 1187. You can complete and download a Standard Form 1187 at this link, or you can acquire an 1187 from your Shop Steward or other Union officer. Please complete the Standard Form 1187 dues authorization and return it to any NPMHU Officer or Shop Steward. Upon sucessful submission to HRSSC, dues will be deducted from your paycheck automatically.
Fillable Standard Form 1187 (pdf)
Non-Fillable Standard Form 1187 (pdf)
Wage Information
Joint Dues Booklet- Avoiding Unintended Multiple Dues Withholding (pdf)
NOVEMBER 5, 2021
OSHA Releases COVID – 19 Emergency Temporary Standard
On November 4, 2021, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) released the COVID-19 Vaccination & Testing Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) which requires all employers with 100+ employees to ensure their employees are vaccinated by January 4, 2022, or require their unvaccinated employees to produce a negative test on at least a once a week basis. The COVID-19 Vaccination & Testing Emergency Temporary Standard does apply to the Postal Service. The NPMHU is reviewing the ETS and its impact on Postal Service employees. Additional information will be disseminated when known.
OSHA’s interim rule
OSHA/DOL Vaccination Emergency Temporary Standard FAQs (pdf)
NOVEMBER 5, 2021
OSHA Vaccine Rule Applies to Postal Service Employees
Source Government Executive; by Courtney Bublé
NOVEMBER 4, 2021
NPMHU Files Step 4 Challenging Cargo Force Subcontracting in Seattle, San Diego, Detroit and Orlando
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union is initiating a grievance at the Step 4 level – in accordance with Article 15, Section 3D of the 2019 National Agreement between the NPMHU and the Postal Service – concerning the Postal Service’s decision to expand the outsourcing of the Terminal Handling Services. The NPMHU became aware of this subcontracting when Cargo Force made a public announcement of its plans to open four new US facilities after winning a new contract with the USPS.
NOVEMBER 4, 2021
Unusual PostalEase Activity Triggers Precautionary Measures
The United States Postal Service’s (Postal Service) Corporate Information Security Office (CISO) has detected unusual log-in activity in the Postal Service’s PostalEase system for some employees, and some of that activity may be related to one's PostalEase account. PostalEase is a self-service web application that serves as your gateway to many postal financial-related services.
The NPMHU was advised that CISO and Postal Service management investigated and took precautionary measures to prevent further activity as soon as it became aware of the unusual log-in issue. CISO monitors daily for suspicious activity to protect employee accounts and information.
The USPS will contact affected employees directly. Impacted employees will receive the following message from the USPS: Your PostalEase account has been placed in a hold status, pending a password reset. To initiate a password reset, you will need contact 1-877-477-3273, Option 5. Please remember, your new password will be used to access all your LiteBlue self-service applications, including PostalEase.
Postal Service information security policy prohibits any use of your account, log-on ID, password, personal information number (PIN), and tokens by a third party, regardless of whether it was authorized by the account holder. Never share your log-in credentials or other information with anyone. All mail handlers are encouraged to periodically change your PostalEase password.
The NPMHU will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as appropriate.
NOVEMBER 2, 2021 Followup to Phil Tyson Memorial Celebration
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It is with sincere regret that we have received word of the passing of former Local 303 President Phil Tyson (Served 2 Terms 2005 - 2011)
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The Tyson family will be doing a virtual service for Phil date as posted on flier above. Anyone that would like to send condolences, cards, pictures they may have with Phil or perhaps would like to write a line or two to be incorporated in the service can Email Phyllis_s90222@yahoo.com or Mail to Phyllis Tyson-Shannon P.O. Box 870342 Morrow, GA. 30287.
The memorial celebration will be at 1PM (Eastern Standard Time) November 13th.
Zoom info - Login: 3 2 3 8 0 7 2 5 6 7
Password: J B M 1 9 6 9
OCTOBER 2021
OCTOBER 4, 2021
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Specifically, in accordance with Article XIII, Section 1 of the NPMHU National Constitution, [t]he National President, subject to the approval of the National Executive Board and by majority vote of the members of each affected Local Union, shall have the authority to amalgamate or de‑amalgamate, affiliate, and otherwise alter existing Local Unions where s/he deems such action necessary or advisable, and such authority shall not be limited by any other provision of this Constitution or of the Uniform Local Union Constitution.
To that end, with support from all parties, the National Office is authorized to conduct a referendum vote affording each member of Local 319 and each member of Local 321 the opportunity to vote for or against the amalgamation of Local 319 with Local 321.
On September 30, 2021, all ballots received from Local 319 were counted. Wyoming mail handlers voted overwhelmingly in support of a proposed amalgamation between local 319 and local 321 with 93% voting in favor of an amalgamation.
On October 4, 2021, ballots will be mailed to Colorado Mail Handlers in good standing at the time of printing. To be counted, ballots must be returned by mail and received in the designated post office box in Washington, DC by 9AM on November 12, 2021.
On behalf of Local Presidents Bob Jacknitsky (319) and Tony Wilson (321), National President Paul Hogrogian, and the entire NPMHU Executive Board, Colorado mail handlers are asked to vote in favor of the amalgamation for the reasons shown on the Resolution brought forth during the most recent National Executive Board meeting in August 2021.
OCTOBER 1, 2021
Dear Brothers and Sisters, Congress has not yet voted for our Number #1 priority: INFRASTRUCTURE. Please continue to make phone calls, send emails, and share your story about why we need to create good construction jobs by passing the Bipartisan Infrstructure Bill.
Please make a call to Congress right now and urge your Representative to support the $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, and to stop holding passage of the bill hostage. The time to pass this infrastructure bill is NOW!
The number to call and ask for your Member of Congress is (202) 224-3121. The advocacy of LIUNA members across the nation is EXTRAORDINARY. Please keep the effort up.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill is a bold investment that will put food on the table for union members and restore our nation's infrastructure. You can also use our easy tool to contact your member of Congress by email by clicking here to send a message.
It is not often that an infrastructure proposal of this magnitude is given serious consideration by Congress.This is a huge opportunity to rebuild our country and equally important for this union. The Progressive Members of Congress need to stop playing politics with LIUNA member's jobs and llivelihoods.
Please join your brothers and sisters in speaking out NOW.
Once again, please call (202) 224-3121 and tell your Representative to Support the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill NOW or click here to send an email to your Representative.
Thank you for everything you do to make this union strong.
OCTOBER 1, 2021
SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
MOU Signed, on Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals
MOU: Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals
Please find linked a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Temporary Extension on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals. Due to the impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the parties have agreed to extend the time limits for appealing grievances to Step 3 and to arbitration for an additional period.
This agreement is effective through December 31, 2021. Prior to the expiration of this agreement, the parties will revisit this issue to determine if an additional extension is warranted.
Memorandum of Understanding
SEPTEMBER 30, 2021
Extension of Various COVID Related Memoranda
Please find enclosed a copy of the MOU
extending the following memoranda through December 31, 2021:
SEPTEMBER 29, 2021
SEPTEMBER 23, 2021 SANTA CLARITA P&DC INFORMATIONAL PICKET
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SEPTEMBER 14, 2021
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President Hogrogian Issues
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With preparations underway for negotiations over the terms of the 2022 National Agreement between the NPMHU and the Postal Service, the National Office is issuing its official call for bargaining proposals from all members and Local Unions.
To be fully considered prior to the onset of negotiations, proposals must be submitted by January 28, 2022. Although formal bargaining is not scheduled to begin until June, the Union’s Field Negotiating Committee will be meeting for a full week in February 2022 to review all submitted proposals and outline the changes in the National Agreement that should be proposed by the NPMHU.
To be sure, planning for collective bargaining is a continuous process at the National Office, as the National Officers and representatives working in the Contract Administration Department routinely identify and collect proposals for improving the language currently found in the 2019 National Agreement. But an equally important aspect of preparing for bargaining is the collection and review of proposals generated by mail handlers across the country.
Thus, National President Paul Hogrogian has issued this official call for bargaining proposals from the membership, the Local Unions, and other subordinate bodies of the NPMHU. If you have any proposals that you would like to have considered for the upcoming round of bargaining, now is the time to submit them to the National Office. Every proposal submitted will be fully analyzed by the NPMHU’s Field Negotiating Committee and the National Negotiations Team while the Union develops its opening bargaining proposals.
All proposals should set forth the Article, Section, Paragraph, and/or Page of the National Agreement that you are suggesting should be changed; the specific language you would like to see added to, or deleted from, the current National Agreement; and your specific reasons for suggesting the change. If you have supporting evidence or documentation that you believe would support the change that you propose, please submit those materials to the National Office along with your proposals. The National Office is asking that all proposals be submitted as soon as possible, but in no event later than January 28, 2022. The National Office also has issued a form that can be used to submit proposals.
Once again, proposals from any member (or group of members) and any Local Unions or other subordinate body should be submitted to the National Office by January 28, 2022, using the following address:
National Postal Mail Handlers Union
ATTN: 2022 Negotiations
815 16th Street, NW, Suite 5100
Washington, DC 20006
Official Call for Bargaining Proposals (pdf)
Fillable bargaining proposal form (pdf)
SEPTEMBER 13, 2021
Served 2 Terms (2005-2011)
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It is with sincere regret that we have received word of the passing of former Local 303 President Phil Tyson. A retired postal worker, union member, and strong advocate for the National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU). The NPMHU and our union brothers and sisters mourn the loss of former Local President Tyson.
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The Tyson family will be doing a virtual service for Phil date TBD. Anyone that would like to send condolences, cards, pictures they may have with Phil or perhaps would like to write a line or two to be incorporated in the service can Email Phyllis_s90222@yahoo.com or Mail to me Phyllis Tyson-Shannon P.O. Box 870342 Morrow, GA. 30287 Further service information will be disseminated as soon as available.
SEPTEMBER 10, 2021
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20th Anniversary of the September 11 Attacks
Today our nation looks back two decades to September 11, 2001 when cowardly terrorists launched a barbaric attack on the Pentagon and World Trade Center.
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We pause to commemorate and reflect on the nearly 3,000 men, women and children who were killed and to remember and honor all the heroes, many of them LIUNA members, who risked their own safety to save lives and to help our country recover and rebuild. While much was lost, we can also gather strength from the unity and courage America demonstrated to the world.
As our world continues to change, we will face new challenges and threats to our freedoms. While 9/11 memorials fittingly soar to the sky, let us remember that the most profound salute to those who were lost and to future generations will always be the living tribute of one united and indivisible American nation.
On behalf of myself, General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni, and the entire LIUNA General Executive Board, we remember those lost on September 11 and share our sincere gratitude with those who responded with such courage and strength to the terrible attacks.
SEPTEMBER 8, 2021
Biden Administration Continues to Praise Unions
President Joe Biden &
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National Postal Mail Handlers Union President Paul V. Hogrogian and other union presidents and leaders met with President Joseph R. Biden, Secretary of Labor and LiUNA member Marty Walsh, and AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, on Wednesday, September 8, in honor of Labor Day.
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“We’ve fundamentally transformed how we live and how we work in this country, and the reason we have is because of victories from labor,” President Biden commented. “When unions win, workers across the board win. That’s a fact.”
Secretary Walsh stated, “It’s never been more clear [that] our economy, our community, our very own lives depend on working people…. Our country will never and must never forget that and what essential workers have done in the last eighteen months.”
These words should resonate with NPMHU members as they have seen this dedication and the benefits of the labor movement firsthand. The NPMHU is grateful to see an Administration that is proud to side with labor organizations, and we look forward to continuing to work with President Biden and Secretary Walsh.
To view the full remarks of Secretary Walsh, President Shuler, and President Biden, please click here.
SEPTEMBER 3, 2021
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Labor Day is
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It is workers and their unions who are on the frontlines, carrying us through economic ups and downs, through wars, and through pandemics, and none have done so willingly as the strong, proud and united members of LIUNA across the U.S. and Canada.
This Labor Day finds a new day dawning in the United States, with the promise of a transformational investment that will finally repair our crumbling infrastructure and create good, LIUNA jobs. In both the United States and Canada, we are working to build a stronger middle-class, strengthen union rights, and looking forward to the eventual end of a pandemic that has destabilized and taken too many lives.
Yet still, all too often the hopes, dreams and aspirations of working people continue to be crushed by barbaric anti-union campaigns, by racism and bigotry, by inequality and by greed. As LIUNA members, we stand ready to fight, and we know that for all that ails our nations, there is no quicker nor more certain cure than a union card.
On this holiday, let us reclaim the true meaning of Labor Day and be inspired by the words of the militant union warrior and martyr Joe Hill, who so eloquently spoke of the power of workers united in solidarity, “If the workers took a notion they could stop all speeding trains; every ship upon the ocean they can tie with mighty chains.”
It is through our union's strength and resolve that our nations thrive. May every LIUNA member feel the power, be the power and use the power! On behalf of myself, General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni and the entire LIUNA General Executive Board, I wish you and your family a safe, meaningful and well-deserved Labor Day.
AUGUST 27, 2021
USPS Reinstates Mask Policy
(PDF) August 27, 2021- Notice to Local Presidents
(PDF) August 27, 2021- As a result of the uncertainty with COVID-19 related to the “Delta Variant,” the Postal Service will reinstate our previous face covering policy for all Mail Processing and Logistics, Retail and Delivery, and Vehicle Operations facilities.
(PDF) August 27, 2021 Mandatory Stand-Up Talk:
Face covering and mask update
AUGUST 2021 UPDATE
AUGUST 12, 2021
Newly converted FTRs have 60 days from the effective date to make your decision and enroll in a FEHB plan.
AUGUST 11, 2021
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) set at $1,934
Effective August 28, 2021, (Pay Period 19-2021) all career Mail Handler craft employees are scheduled to receive a cost-of-living (COLA) adjustment as outlined in Article 9.3 of the 2019 National Agreement. This is the fourth of six possible COLA increases under the terms of the current agreement.
This COLA increase is based on the upward change in the relevant Consumer Price Index (CPI) following release of the January 2021 Index, using the July 2019 CPI index as a base provides an annual increase of $1,934 for all Steps in Table 1 and for Step P of Table 2. The remaining Steps in Table 2 will receive the proportional COLA increase percentages as outlined in Article 9.3 of the National Agreement.
*Updated wage charts forthcoming
AUGUST 10, 2021
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The legislation reflects what would be one of the most significant and largest investments ever in America’s infrastructure by addressing critical transportation, water, energy and broadband needs. The legislation would create hundreds of thousands of good, family-supporting construction careers, help restore our nation’s infrastructure to global greatness, and build a lasting legacy for generations to come.
For far too long we have starved our country of the infrastructure investment the American people want, need and deserve. We must seize this opportunity. It is time to get the job done so that LIUNA members, who are ready, willing, and able, can get to work now building America and securing our future. We urge the U.S. House of Representatives to avoid delays, pass the Senate bill and send it to President Biden’s desk.
AUGUST 7, 2021
Statement by President Joe Biden
on the Passing of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka
Statement by President Joe Biden on the Passing of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (whitehouse.gov.)
AUGUST 6, 2021
Statement from National Postal Mail Handlers Union President Paul V. Hogrogian
on the Passing of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka
Like my fellow brothers and sisters of the labor movement, I was surprised and even more saddened by the sudden passing of President Richard Trumka.
Throughout his time as a labor leader, within the United Mine Workers of America and the AFL-CIO, President Trumka promoted basic workers’ rights and the benefits of collective bargaining. He was a powerhouse of the movement with a strong voice for the cause. He touted this message regardless of the level of national support for the union movement.
Rich also understood the value of the postal service and its dedicated workforce. NPMHU is grateful for the times he took to speak to our members at national conventions. Our union and our fellow AFL-CIO affiliates are better because of his leadership. The NPMHU and our union brothers and sisters mourn the loss of President Trumka, and we are proud to continue Rich’s work.
AUGUST 5, 2021
Richard L. Trumka (1949 - 2021)
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Our brother and leader Richard Trumka passed away on August 5, 2021, at the age of 72. The labor movement, the AFL-CIO and the nation lost a legend today.
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Statement of LIUNA General President Terry O’Sullivan
on the Death of Richard Trumka
I was shocked and saddened by the death of my friend and brother, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka. The world has lost a true working-class warrior, a prophetic voice for justice, and a champion of the powerless and the dispossessed.
A third-generation coal miner who became the youngest leader of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA), Rich never forgot where he came from, never forgot the value of hard work and those who do it, and knew that working people, from mine workers to Laborers to everyone who toils for an hourly wage, are the greatest asset of our nation and our world. He will go down as one of the great leaders in labor history.
Working with Richard Trumka was one of the highlights of my career in the Labor Movement. Whether pushing for greater infrastructure funding, calling for greater workplace safety, advocating for comprehensive immigration reform, standing up for racial justice, or turning out the vote to elect President Biden and Vice-President Harris, Rich was always smart, strategic, tough, and tenacious.
The impact of his career, his life, and his legacy will be felt for decades to come, not only by the countless working men and women whose lives he helped improve, but by the next generation of labor leaders for whom he served, and continues to serve, as a role model and inspiration.
On behalf of the 500,000 proud, strong, and united men and women of the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA), I offer my sympathy and condolences to the entire Trumka family. While Rich’s life ended far too soon, he will live on in the cherished memories of all those who knew and worked with him.
AUGUST 3, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Agree to Extend COVID Memorandums
Memorandum of Understanding (pdf)
The following Memoranda of Understanding between the United States Postal Service and the National Postal Mail Handlers Union have been extended through September 30, 2021. The parties agree to meet and discuss these Memoranda of Understanding prior to September 30, 2021, to determine whether or not further extension is appropriate.
• Re: Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID-19
• Re: Temporary Exception Period COVID-19* (Revised March 19, 2021)
• Re: Suspension of Temporary Additional Paid Leave for MHAs
JULY 26, 2021
Dear Brothers and Sisters, The Senate has begun consideration of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework. This infrastructure deal is a historic investment in our nation's roads, bridges, transit, and water systems. It will create hundreds of thousands of union jobs. It will be a game changer for Laborers. It is urgent that you call your Senators TODAY at (202) 224-3121 and ask them to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework. Please watch the video, share it with your friends, and take action. |
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This is a bold investment that will put food on the table for union members and restore our nation's infrastructure. Please make a call to Congress right now and urge your Senators to support the $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework. The number is (202) 224-3121. You can also use our easy tool to contact your members of Congress by email by clicking here to send a message. It is not often that an infrastructure proposal of this magnitude is given serious consideration by Congress.This is a huge opportunity to rebuild our country and equally important for this union. Congress needs to hear from you. Please join your brothers and sisters in speaking out now. Once again, please call (202) 224-3121 or click here to send an email and urge your Senators to support the bipartisan infrastructure proposal.
Thank you for everything you do to make this union strong.
Sincerely,
Terry O'Sullivan
General President
JULY 19, 2021
Louis DeJoy Postmaster General, CEO reissues
the Postal Service’s Policy on Workplace Harassment
Please find enclosed a copy of the above-reference document from the Postal Service outlining the Postal Service’s Policy on Workplace Harassment. Including:
• Prohibited Activities
• Management Responsibility
• Employees Rights and Responsibilities Please disseminate this information as you deem appropriate.
JULY 16, 2021
Postal Service Revises Face Covering Policy
According to the Postal Service, the face covering policy is revised as follow as result of guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Effective immediately, all postal employees and contractors who have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19 are not required to wear face coverings consistent with the guidance enumerated below.
In accordance with guidance from the CDC and OSHA, “fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.” According to the CDC and OSHA, people are considered fully vaccinated for COVID-19 two weeks or more after they have completed their final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in the United States. Supporting verification of COVID-19 vaccination status will not be required and should not be requested.
Employees who have not been fully vaccinated are required to wear face coverings in any situation in which they cannot achieve or maintain social distance—at least six feet and in public facing settings where there is a state or local face covering order or directive in place.
Postal Service Revises Face Covering Policy (pdf)
JULY 2021 (REFERENCE UPDATE)
NPMHU UPDATE JUNE 2021
JUNE 25, 2021
Child Tax Credit Payments to Start in July
The American Rescue Plan signed into law back in March included language to provide financial relief to families raising children, the Child Tax Credit. Those with children will receive $3,000 to $3,600 per child, depending on the age of the child and household income.
Payments will come in monthly installments starting in July. If you’ve filed tax returns for 2019 or 2020, or if you signed up to receive a stimulus check from the Internal Revenue Service, these payments will be automatic and there is no need to enroll.
For more information on this tax credit, you can visit www.childtaxcredit.gov or the IRS Child Tax Credit portal, https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021.
Additionally, there is a one-sheet fact sheet for reference, which can be found here.
JUNE 21, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Reach Agreement to Convert 6,596 MHAs
to Career Full-time Regular by August 14, 2021
Memorandum of Understanding Re Additional Mail Handler Staffing – June 21, 2021 (pdf)
Linked above is a new MOU just signed by the NPMHU and the Postal Service to provide for additional Mail Handler staffing, in large part by converting 6,596 Mail Handler Assistants to full-time regular career employment no later than August 14, 2021. Also attached is a chart listing the 245 facilities in which these 6596 conversions will take place and the number of conversions that will take place in each listed facility.
As set forth in the MOU, the Postal Service has agreed to convert 6596 MHAs to career status, in the listed facilities, by August 14, 2021. In exchange, the parties agree to extend the exception period for the continued employment of MHAs in excess of the 24.5% installation cap until July 16, 2021 as set forth below. MHAs hired in excess of the 24.5% installation cap for COVID related reasons remain subject to a separate MOU.
1. The parties agree to extend the exception period for the continued employment of MHAs in excess of the 24.5% installation cap as set forth below:
A. Facilities other than those listed on the attached table that are in excess of the 24.5% installation cap will separate Peak MHA hires (i.e., MHAs hired for reasons unrelated to COVID-19) on or before July 16, 2021, following the procedures of the current National Agreement.
B. Installations that plan to convert five or fewer non-career employees to career status in accordance with the attached table will be permitted to retain the number of Peak MHA hires above the 24.5% installation cap equal to the amount of conversions listed in the table beyond July 16, 2021. After the above-referenced conversions are completed and accounted for in the MHA cap, those retained Peak MHA hires above the 24.5% installation cap will be separated on or before August 27, 2021 following the procedures of the National Agreement. All other Peak MHA hires in these facilities will be separated on July 16, 2021, following the procedures of the current National Agreement.
C. After the above-referenced conversions are completed and accounted for in the MHA cap, facilities listed on the attached table that are in excess of the 24.5% installation cap and which plan to convert more than five non-career employees to career status in accordance with the attached table will separate any non-COVID related MHA hires on or before August 27, 2021 following the procedures of the current National Agreement.
Additionally, we have agreed that the exception period for the 2021 peak season for exceeding the 24.5% limitation as set forth in Article 7.1 B3, will be expanded by one additional accounting period. This additional accounting period must be adjacent to the two accounting periods previously identified to the Union under Article 7.1B3 for 2021 and the Postal Service shall notify the Union, at the National level and at the appropriate installation, of the selected additional accounting period for each installation no later than July 30, 2021.
Also see attached a copy of the Questions & Answers that have been agreed to for this MOU Re: Additional Mail Handler Staffing – June 21, 2021. Please contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
| MHA CONVERSIONS LISTING LOCAL 303 JUN 2021 |
JUNE 17, 2021
USPS Issues Statement on
Juneteenth National Independence Day
The NPMHU is in discussions with the USPS regarding observance and recognition of this important day. We remain committed to ensuring appropriate recognition of Juneteenth National Independence Day. Please watch union publications for additional details.
SUBJECT: Juneteenth National Independence Day (pdf)
USPS June 17, 2021- President Biden signed into law the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act on June 17, 2021, making June 19 a federal holiday. This new holiday commemorates the final end to slavery in the United States and the Postal Service is fully supportive of annually observing and setting aside a day to recognize this historic event.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to cease the operations of the Postal Service to accommodate an observance over the next 24-48 hours. We are part of the nation’s critical infrastructure and our customers are relying on us to deliver our essential services. Closing down our operations without providing appropriate time would lead to operational disruptions and be a disservice to our customers and those who rely upon us. For that reason, the Postal Service will be operating on June 18 and 19, 2021, on a normal schedule, serving our customers to the best of our ability. Please immediately communicate our operating status to your employees.
The Postal Service will discuss future recognition of this significant new holiday with our national Unions, Management Associations, and other stakeholders, consistent with our collective bargaining and consultative obligations under Title 39. Once those discussions take place, we will update you on appropriate developments, but we reiterate that we are fully supportive of this important national holiday.
Juneteenth is a Sacred Holiday Honoring Black Lives and Resilience
Juneteenth is a Sacred Holiday
Honoring Black Lives and Resilience (pdf) Washington, D.C. (June 17, 2021) – Terry O’Sullivan, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – made the following statement today:
President Biden’s signature on legislation making Juneteenth a new federal holiday is a symbolic and important step forward in honoring Black lives by recognizing and commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. The broad bipartisan support for Juneteenth in Congress is both commendable and a reassuring sign that despite the seemingly unrelenting political strife there is consensus on the fundamental crimes in our nation’s past. LIUNA urges lawmakers to be equally clear-eyed and open to policy solutions to address the sins of the present in order that our nation might live up to our highest ideals of equity, opportunity, and fairness to all men and women regardless of race, color, or creed.
AFL-CIO on Juneteenth
Today’s historic signing by President Biden making Juneteenth a federal holiday is a recognition of Black power and a reflection of America’s ongoing journey to tell our nation’s story. As we honor the sacred Juneteenth holiday that celebrates Black resilience and joy, America’s labor movement will continue to use our voice to lift up and learn from the Black experience. We must be a voice for all who live and work in the United States and to say out loud the names of those who were taken from us by racist violence.
Though explicit slavery has been abolished for more than 150 years, the exploitation of Black labor continues to this day through a systemically racist economy designed to promote wage disparity in the workplace and the chronic unemployment, underemployment and economic exploitation of Black people. America’s labor movement must remain at the tip of the spear to uproot systemic racism in all forms if we seek to fully uphold our nation’s promise of dignity for Black people.
SPRING 2021 "THE MAIL HANDLER" MAGAZINE
JUNE 8, 2021
NPMHU-USPS Joint Contract Interpretation Manual (CIM) Version 5
Now Available
As provided for in Article 15, Section .3E of the National Agreement between the National Postal Mail Handlers Union and the United States Postal Service, both parties have agreed to jointly produce a Contract Interpretation Manual (CIM), which represents a good faith effort to identify contractual issues on which the National parties are in agreement regarding interpretation and application of the parties' National Agreement. The latest issue of the CIM is Version 5, which was released on June 8, 2021.
June 8, 2021 Memorndum re: CIM v.5 (pdf)
Click to download CIM Version 5 (pdf)
CIM Version 5 with linked resources will be made available in the coming weeks.
JUNE 7, 2021
Postal Service creates a template letter for supervisors to provide employees who fail to provide documentation required for EFEL request (s) under the American Rescue Plan Act.
| USPS SUPERVISOR TEMPLATE LETTER FOR EFEL |
JUNE 3, 2021
FSAFEDS announces new flexibilities as a result of recent legislation and IRS guidance
In response to recent legislation and IRS guidance, FSAFEDS is announcing important new flexibilities for the 2020 and 2021 plan years to Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts (HCFSAs), Limited Expense Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts (LEX HCFSAs) and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (DCFSAs).
Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA) and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) 2021 Quick Reference Guide (pdf)
JUNE 3, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Agree to Extend COVID Memorandums
The following Memoranda of Understanding between the United States Postal Service and the National Postal Mail Handlers Union have been extended through August 6, 2021. The parties agree to meet and discuss these Memoranda of Understanding prior to August 6, 2021, to determine whether or not further extension is appropriate.
Re: Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID-19
Re: Temporary Exception Period COVID-19*
Re: Suspension of Temporary Additional Paid Leave for MHAs
*Revised on March 19, 2021.
Please find linked a copy of the MOU extending the following memoranda:
1. MOU – Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID – 19
2. MOU – Temporary Exception Period – COVID – 19 * Revised March 19, 2021
3. Liberal Changes of Schedule and Leave Letter.
4. MOU – Suspension of Temporary Additional Paid Leave for MHAs
5. MOU – Temporary Extension on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
June 3, 2021 Memorandum Extensions (pdf)
MAY 30, 2021
LOCAL 303 ELECTED DELEGATES TO 2021 LIUNA CONVENTION
MAY 28, 2021
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MEMORIAL DAY
Dear Brothers and Sisters, This Memorial Day we will reflect on the sacrifices of those who have made it possible for our freedom and democracy to endure.
As we have all struggled over the past year with the health, economic and social impacts of a global pandemic, the brave men and women of our armed forces, including thousands of LIUNA members, have quietly and nobly continued to fulfill their promise to protect our nation.
I ask you to join me in a solemn salute to those who serve and have served, some making the ultimate sacrifice. We owe these patriots and heroes a debt of gratitude that can never truly be fully repaid. But we must commemorate our veterans by building an ever stronger union and country so that when their service has ended they return to opportunities to prosper.
On behalf of myself, LIUNA General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni, and the entire General Executive Board, I wish each and every one of you a meaningful and enjoyable Memorial Day.
MAY 19, 2021
USPS delivers Mandatory Stand-Up Talk re: Face covering and mask update
USPS delivers Mandatory Stand-Up Talk re: Face covering and mask update (pdf)
Please find linked above, the USPS Mandatory Stand-Up Talk re: Face covering and mask update. Please disseminate this information, as you deem appropriate and should you have any questions, or comments and/or suggestions regarding the above, please contact this office or forward your responses to the Contract Administration Department.
MAY 13, 2021
National Postal Mail Handlers Union National President Paul V. Hogrogian
Statement on Committee Passage of the Postal Reform Act and the Postal Improvement Act
Today, the National Postal Mail Handlers Union saw a positive step forward on making substantive reforms that, if enacted, would provide sound financial footing to the United States Postal Service. The House Committee on Oversight and Reform passed the bipartisan Postal Reform Act of 2021 (H.R. 3076). This bill would repeal the 2006 mandate requiring the USPS to prefund its retiree healthcare benefits; require future retirees and their annuitants to enroll in Medicare when eligible; provide agreements with state, local and tribal governments to provide non-commercial services; and, call upon the Postal Service to conduct studies on service standards and create a public facing dashboard, informing postal customers on delays.
By eliminating the prefunding mandate and calling for prospective integration into Medicare, the Postal Service would save $4.4 billion annually. No other private business or public agency prefunds their retiree healthcare, and postal employees have contributed over $35 billion to Medicare over the past four decades, while not fully taking advantage of its benefits. This is a commonsense solution that is supported by labor, management, Republicans, and Democrats alike.
Additionally, the bill allows for agreements with state, local, or tribal governments to provide property and services on behalf of such agencies for non-commercial products and services, such as providing fishing and hunting licenses, as a means of growth. This has been a long-standing item on NPMHU’s legislative agenda, and we are glad to see it was included in this bill.
Last summer, Mail Handlers and customers grappled with changes to service standards and delivery times. Recognizing the problem, H.R. 3076 would create a dashboard on the USPS website that would inform customers of delays and issues with services. This is the kind of transparency Americans deserve from the Postal Service.
We look forward to seeing this bill move through the House, and the NPHMU is working with its friends in the Senate to ensure the bill gains support in that chamber so it will eventually become law. On behalf of NPMHU members, I would like to thank Chairwoman Maloney and Ranking Member Comer on their tireless work on H.R. 3076. As Mail Handlers know, the Postal Service and the work of its employees are essential to Americans across the country. This bill provides the first steps to much needed financial stability. The NPMHU looks forward to our continued work with the entire Committee on Oversight and Reform.
After approving H.R. 3076, the House Committee passed along partisan lines the Postal Service Improvement Act of 2021 (H.R. 3077). This bill includes language that would provide tracking for mail-in ballots for future federal elections, as well as a provision that provides twelve weeks of paid leave to postal employees for the birth, adoption, or fostering of a child. During today’s committee business meeting, additional amendments were added to the bill that included modernizing the postal fleet with electric vehicles; utilizing letter carriers in the 2030 census; requiring financial disclosures from the Postmaster General and the Deputy Postmaster General before they assume duties; ensuring members of Congress cannot be denied access to postal facilities for basic oversight observations; and restoring service standards to those in effect as of January 1, 2020.
Thank you to the Committee for its work and continued support of the Postal Service and its dedicated workforce.
National Postal Mail Handlers Union National President Paul V. Hogrogian Statement on Committee Passage of the Postal Reform Act and the Postal Improvement Act (pdf)
MAY 11, 2021
NPMHU Seeks EFEL Clarification From OPM
May 11, 2021- The National Office has sent the attached letter to Kathleen McGettigan, Acting Director of the Office of Personnel Management requesting clarification on their guidelines for EFEL Qualifying Circumstance #5.
According to the OPM guidance, a covered employee is eligible for EPL if the employee certifies “that he or she is unable to work because of a qualifying circumstance.” One qualifying circumstance is “(5) Caring for employee’s child when required because, due to COVID-19 precautions, the child’s school or place of care has been closed, or the child is participating in virtual learning instruction, or the child’s care provider is unavailable.”
The guidance goes on to state that “[t]his circumstance applies only when an employee needs to, and actually is, caring for the employee’s son or daughter and if the employee is unable to work (including telework) as a result of providing care.” Finally, the guidance directs federal agencies, including the Postal Service, “[t]o confirm eligibility for EPL based on qualifying circumstance (5)” by requiring “an employee [to] provide to the agency— (1) the name of the son or daughter being cared for; (2) the name of the school, place of care, or child care provider and a brief description of the situation (i.e., closure, use of on-line instruction, unavailability of the child care provider); and (3) a written explanation regarding why the employee’s circumstances (e.g., ages of children, number of children, special needs of children, lack of other adults in the home) make the employee unable to work (including telework) during the requested hours of leave.”
After OPM guidance was issued, management at the Postal Service issued frequently asked questions (FAQs) to cover postal employees, including mail handlers.
Those FAQs included in number 8 the following question and answer: I work a tour that does not directly conflict with my child’s hours of virtual/hybrid schooling or my need to provide childcare as a result of the childcare provider’s unavailability.
Am I eligible for EFEL under qualifying reason 5? No. EFEL under qualifying reason 5 is available only for hours that an employee actually is providing childcare because of the qualifying reason.
As made clear by the Postal Service’s answer to this FAQ, postal management has taken the position that an employee is eligible only if the employee “actually is” providing childcare during the hours that the employee is scheduled to work.
The NPMHU believes that this restriction is a misunderstanding or misinterpretation of OPM’s guidance, which simply states that to be eligible the employee “actually is” caring for a child and because the employee is providing such childcare the employee is “unable to work.” The NPMHU does not believe that the OPM guidance requires an absolute match between the hours providing childcare and the hours required or scheduled to work.
Please contact the Contract Administration Department if you have any questions.
May 11, 2021 - Letter to OPM Requesting Clarification on Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL) When Taking Leave under Qualifying Circumstance (5), Caring for Employee’s Child (pdf)
MAY 10, 2021
Mail Handlers to Receive Night Shift Differential Increase
May 8, 2021- As provided for in Article 8.7 of the NPMHU 2019 National Agreement, effective May 8, 2021, the flat dollar amount at each pay grade and step for night shift differential in Tables Three and Four shall be increased by an amount equal to 2% of the flat dollar amount for the grade and step in effect on May 9, 2020. The increase is applicable for time worked between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Career employees shall be paid additional compensation at the applicable flat dollar amount at each pay grade and step in accordance with Tables Three and Four. This is the second of three Night Shift Differential increases negotiated in the 2019 National Agreement.
MAY 10, 2021
USPS delivers Mandatory Stand-Up Talk re: Emergency Federal Employee Leave
Please find linked, the: Mandatory Stand-Up Talk re: Emergency Federal Employee Leave (pdf)
The Postal Service wants to help you understand Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL), a new leave category that provides workers with leave related to the coronavirus pandemic. EFEL leave is available to you through Sept. 30, or until the federal fund to reimburse agencies for the cost of this leave is exhausted. All Emergency Federal Employee Leave is conditional on money being available in the fund to reimburse the Postal Service for the cost of leave.
You must substitute with other available paid leave, or use leave without pay, to repay the Postal Service for the cost of any Emergency Federal Employee Leave hours for which it is not reimbursed. You should also know that your Emergency Federal Employee Leave hours will be subtracted from the creditable service used to compute your federal civilian retirement annuities.
The law imposes limits on the amount of this emergency leave an employee may take, and on the compensation an employee may receive in a single pay period for Emergency Federal Employee Leave hours.
The qualifying reasons include seeking a medical diagnosis when suffering from COVID-19 symptoms, quarantining or isolating under a medical provider’s orders, and others. To find the full list of qualifying reasons, go to the COVID-19 Employee Resources page on LiteBlue, and review the list on the Employee Notification and Leave Request Form.
Postal employees who are seeking to use Emergency Federal Employee Leave must submit three separate forms:
PS Form 3971, Request for or Notification of Absence, indicating Emergency Federal Employee Leave and for which of the qualifying reasons they must take leave;
COVID-19 Emergency Federal Employee Leave Employee Notification and Leave Request Form; and
Employee Agreement in Connection with Emergency Federal Employee Leave, provided under Section 4001 of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
Any employee who has used Emergency Federal Employee Leave prior to being notified of the document requirements is required to supply the above documents retroactively.
For more information about Emergency Federal Employee Leave — including the forms you’ll need to complete — go to the COVID-19 Employee Resources page on LiteBlue. You’ll need your employee identification number and password to log in. You can find the Emergency Federal Employee Leave page by looking under Hot Topics on the LiteBlue home page.
Please disseminate this information, as you deem appropriate and should you have any questions, or comments and/or suggestions regarding the above, please contact this office or forward your responses to the Contract Administration Department.
May 10, 2021 Memorandum to Local Presidents re: USPS delivers Mandatory Stand-Up Talk re: Emergency Federal Employee Leave (pdf)
MAY 7, 2021
USPS delivers Mandatory Stand-Up Talk re:
COVID-19 vaccine eligibility expanded to everyone over 16
Please find linked here: USPS Mandatory Stand-Up Talk re: COVID-19 vaccine eligibility expanded to everyone over 16. (pdf)
According to the Postal Service, anyone 16 years of age and older is now eligible for COVID-19 vaccination. The Postal Service encourages all employees who wish to get vaccinated to do so. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), widespread vaccination is a critical tool to help stop the spread of the pandemic.
MAY 7, 2021
Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The National Office has just received the attached document from the Postal Service regarding Frequently Asked Questions on the Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL).
The FAQs are also available on the Coronavirus Employee Resources page on LiteBlue, under the EFEL tab.
Stand Up Talks are expected to be given next week.
| EFEL FAQs (MAY 7, 2021) |
APRIL 30, 2021
OPM Issues Guidelines/Regulations on COVID-19 Emergency Paid Leave
April 30, 2021- The National Office has just received notification from the Postal Service regarding the OPM Guidelines for Use of the COVID-19 Emergency Paid Leave also known as the Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL). On March 11, 2021, President Biden signed into law the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (Public Law 117-2). The Act included provisions authorizing emergency paid leave (EPL) for covered Federal employees in specified qualifying circumstances through special funds. The EPL provision in section 4001 of the Act is administered by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). You may review the memorandum and OPM guidlines at the link below.
General Information from OPM on the Emergency Paid Leave is included in the April 30, 2021, NPMHU Memorandum to all Local Unions (pdf)
APRIL 29, 2021
USPS Issues Memorandum on American Rescue Plan Act—Emergency Federal Employee Leave
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has advised the Postal Service that OPM does not anticipate issuing its official guidance on EFEL by April 1, 2021, the original anticipated end date for our interim process. As previously noted, OPM is charged with administering the EFEL Fund (Fund) that will finance leave granted under the ARPA and, therefore, is required to issue guidance on how the leave is to be administered by covered agencies, including the Postal Service. Because of OPM’s need to finalize its guidance, the Postal Service is limited in its ability to fully implement EFEL at this time. The USPS has extended the interim process established by the March 18, 2021, memorandum regarding the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)—Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL).
April 29, 2021 Memorandum-
Emergency Federal Employee Leave—Enterprise Resource Management Application Changes (pdf)
APRIL 28, 2021
Remembering their sacrifices on Workers Memorial Day
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Dear Brothers and Sisters,
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We must use our union power fight for stronger health and safety regulations to protect workers. We must use our power to build nations that value every worker as a brother or sister. On this Workers Memorial Day and on May Day, let us rise up and rededicate ourselves anew to the struggle for safer jobs, for workers’ rights, for civil rights and for human rights so that the value of every worker is honored and respected. May you always Feel the power, be the power and use the power!
APR 27, 2021
President Biden Announces Key Hire at the Office of Management and Budget
President Biden Announces Key Hire at the Office of Management and Budget
WASHINGTON – Today, President Joe Biden announced Celeste Drake as his choice to serve as the Nation’s first Director of Made in America at the Office of Management and Budget.
Celeste Drake, Made in America Director, Office of Management and Budget
As the Nation’s first Made in America Director, Celeste Drake will shape and implement Federal procurement and financial management policy to help carry out the President’s vision of a future made in all of America by all of America’s workers — including minority entrepreneurs and small businesses in every region in our country.
Drake joins the administration from the Directors Guild of America, where she served as the Executive in Charge of Government Affairs, advocating for the economic and creative interests of the labor union’s more than 18,000 members.
Prior to joining the DGA, Drake served as the Trade and Globalization Policy Specialist for the AFL-CIO, where she played an instrumental role in shaping U.S. trade policy to promote inclusive growth for working American families and the manufacturing sector.
Drake has led efforts to reform the labor rules in the NAFTA/USMCA, to convince the U.S. government to address labor rights violations in Bangladesh, Thailand, Fiji, and Georgia, and to reform the process by which Congress oversees and approves trade agreements to protect American jobs. Drake began her policy career on Capitol Hill as Legislative Director for Congresswoman Linda Sánchez (D-CA) and a Legislative Counsel for Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX). A former high school economics and history teacher, Drake has a JD, an MPP, and a BA from the University of California, Los Angeles.
APR 27, 2021
USPS Issues Notification of Implementation of
Secondary Mail Moves for 18 Facilities
The National Office has just received the attached notification from the Postal Service regarding their planned implementation of secondary mail moves for 18 facilities. These 18 sites previously had AMP studies conducted and the majority of mail has already been moved in 2015 or before as part of the Phase II Network Consolidation. The secondary mail moves that are planned will include destinating letters, flats or in some facilities, both. Of the 18 facilities identified, there are 10 facilities where mail handlers are currently working. These include: Bend CSMPC, Erie P&DF, Gainesville, P&DC, Huntsville P&DF, Mid-Hudson P&DC, North Bay P&DC, Pocatello CSMPC, Seattle WA East DDC, Southern CT P&DC and Wausau P&DF.
These installations are not proposed to be closed entirely as parcel processing and/or cross dock operations are slated to remain. The exact number of Mail Handlers to be affected is not known at this time as Impact Statements and supporting documentation are scheduled to be provided by the Postal Service to the Union in July. Final implementation is planned to include a November 6, 2021 employee move date. The NPMHU will continue to challenge unnecessary consolidations in an attempt to minimize the negative impact on mail handlers.
Please do not hesitate to contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
Memorandum to Local Unions re: Notification of Implementation of Secondary Mail Moves for 18 Facilities (pdf)
APR 26, 2021
USPS Challenge to National Arbitration Decision
on Hatch Act and LWOP is Dismissed
Back in August 2018, we circulated a copy of the National Arbitration Award issued by Arbitrator Stephen Goldberg on August 6, 2018 in a case concerning the use of Union LWOP for political activities under the National Agreement. The matter was heard in June 2018, briefed in July 2018, and decided in August 2018. The case was initiated by the APWU, with the NPMHU and the NALC intervening. It was generated by some stark political activity, succinctly described by Arbitrator Goldberg:
[T]he Office of Special Counsel (OSC), which [is a government agency that] has exclusive jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute alleged violations of the Hatch Act, received a complaint submitted by Senator Ron Johnson, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. One of Chairman Johnson’s constituents, a Postal Service employee, had told Chairman Johnson that the Postal Service was incurring unnecessary overtime costs by releasing employees who were members of the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) to participate in the AFL-CIO’s Labor 2016 Program (Labor 2016).[1]
OSC investigated Chairman Johnson’s complaint, and on July 14, 2017, issued a report of the results of its investigation. (“Report of Hatch Act Investigation: Facilitating Labor Union’s Political Activity Through Use of ‘Union Official’ Leave Without Pay”.) OSC found the existence of a practice by which NALC would provide a Postal Service Headquarters Labor Relations executive with a list of carriers NALC had recruited and wanted released to participate in Labor 2016. The Labor Relations executive would disseminate the list to the relevant field offices, which would release the designated carriers on “LWOP – Union Official” leave status.
OSC found that such practices were long-standing, going back several election years. It further found that although these practices were intended to engender goodwill with the Union, they constituted a systemic violation of the Hatch Act, and created an institutional bias in favor of the NALC’s endorsed political candidates, a result prohibited by the Hatch Act.
Based on this investigative finding, and on political pressures from Senator Johnson and his supporters, the Postal Service unilaterally issued a Corrective Action Plan, which included changes to the ELM and its regulations on the use of Union LWOP and to the Form 3971. Those changes were made unilaterally, and without any bargaining or even consultation with the major postal unions.
Arbitrator Goldberg easily found that these unilateral changes violated the National Agreement, and ordered that they be rescinded. He also ordered the Postal Service to bargain with the APWU about any changes to Union LWOP. Follow the link below for the complete memorandum and additional details in this matter.
April 26, 2021 Memorandum to Local Presidents (pdf)
Case No. Q15C-4Q-C 17697250 and Case No. Q15C-4Q-C 18033533 Hatch Act and LWOP (pdf)
APRIL 22, 2021
Results of Site Selection Referendum
Establishing the Location of the
2024 NPMHU Quadrennial Convention
APRIL 22, 2021
NPMHU Endorses Stroman, McReynolds and Hajjar to USPS BOG
President Hogrogian recently contacted Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Senator Gary Peters and Ranking Member Senator Rob Portman regarding nominations to the USPS Board of Governors. President Hogrogian stressed the union’s support of a balanced BOG writing:
On behalf of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, I write to endorse the nominations of Ron Stroman, Amber McReynolds, and Anton Hajjar to the United States Postal Service Board of Governors.
As you are aware, the USPS Board of Governors plays a vital role in determining the policy to carry out the duties of the Postal Service, ensuring its sustainability. Given their backgrounds with the Postal Service, postal union, and voter initiatives, the nominees would be valuable resources to the Board.
With a career of over thirty years working on postal issues as a staffer within Congress and then as Deputy Postmaster General, Ron Stroman has keen insights on avenues to a sustainable future for the Postal Service. The NPMHU appreciated working with Mr. Stroman when he was the Deputy PMG, and we look forward to working with him as a member of the Board of Governors.
The postal workforce is unique not only from the private sector, but also compared to our federal counterparts. Our bargaining rights are different, and our employee characteristics vary from the federal workforce. Based on his service as the counsel for the American Postal Workers Union, Anton Hajjar brings necessary experience of working with postal unions and an understanding of what the workforce needs to be fully successful and meet the demands of postal customers.
The United States Postal Service saw unprecedented participation in voting by mail this election season. With over 135 million postal ballots processed and delivered, 97.9% of which were within 3 days and 99.7% within 5 days, voters discovered the convenience of vote-by-mail and many local election boards are expecting greater use of mail-in ballots even after the pandemic is over. As CEO of the Vote At Home Institute, Amber McReynolds provides first-hand knowledge to ensure successful and secure mail-in elections.
I urge the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to vote in favor of these nominees, and move them to the floor for a full Senate vote as quickly as possible.
APRIL 14, 2021
Please see the attached update on the Emergency Federal Employee Leave
APRIL 14, 2021
Mail Handlers Honor Workers Memorial Day
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AFL-CIO Honors Workers Memorial Day RENEW THE PROMISE- SAFE JOBS FOR ALL (pdf) FIFTY YEARS AGO on April 28, Workers Memorial Day, the Occupational Safety and Health Act went into effect, promising every worker the right to a safe job. The law was won because of the tireless efforts of the labor movement, which organized for safer working conditions and demanded government action. Unions and our allies have fought hard to make that promise a reality—winning protections that have made jobs safer and saved lives. But our work is not done. Each year, thousands of workers are killed and millions suffer injury or illness because of dangerous working conditions. |
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the inextricable link between workplace safety and health and our communities. The virus has killed more than 500,000 people in this country so far—devastating working families, with a disproportionate impact on people of color. Unions and our allies stepped up to demand and win job protections from this highly contagious virus. We organized for safe jobs and the right to speak out against unsafe working conditions. We demanded access to the ventilation, respirators and other measures that protect workers from inhaling the virus at work. Given the lack of federal action, unions won protections in states and held state and local leaders accountable. Organized labor and our
allies were key to strengthening job safety to save lives.
Worker safety and workers’ voice go hand in hand. The popularity of unions is at 65%—one of the highest marks since the OSH Act was implemented in 1971—and 60 million nonunion workers say they would vote for a voice on the job today. That is why America’s labor movement is leading the campaign to pass the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, which would give all workers who want to form a
union a fair path to do so. Strong unions hold employers and the government accountable to keep workers safe.
Strong unions raise the baseline level of job safety protections for all. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the lack of resources and accountability for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to ensure workers are protected on the job, as well as the structural failures that have prevented workers from organizing for safer working conditions. Workplace safety agencies have been hollowed out with a reduction in staff and a stagnant budget. Many workers never see OSHA in their workplace. Penalties are too low to be a deterrent. Workers are not adequately protected to speak out against unsafe working conditions and to join a union without retaliation.
As we look to the next 50 years of national worker protections, Congress must strengthen workplace safety agencies to renew their promise to working people, and issue life-saving protections against workplace violence, infectious diseases, heat illness, silica in mining and toxic chemicals—preventable hazards that kill tens of thousands of workers each year. On April 28, the unions of the AFL-CIO will observe Workers Memorial Day to remember those who have suffered and died on the job, and to renew the fight for safe jobs. We will mobilize to pass the PRO Act, so workers have a voice on the job. We will stand united to strengthen workers’ rights and protections, and demand resources and actions needed for job safety enforcement. We will fight for the right of every worker to a safe job, until that promise is fulfilled.
Workers Memorial Day Events Submit Your Event Get involved and organize observances, remembrances, actions, activities, or digital campaigns in your workplaces and communities to highlight the toll of job injuries and deaths and call for action to renew the promise to a safe job. We will stand united against the ongoing attacks on workers’ rights and protections and have the freedom to organize for safer workplaces. We must and we will protect the right of every worker to a safe job and fight until that promise is fulfilled.
2021 Workers Memorial Day Materials Order Materials for Your Event Download Workers Memorial Day digital assets for your event. WHAT YOU CAN DO ON WORKERS MEMORIAL DAY For additional information or to order materials, contact:
AFL-CIO Safety and Health
815 16th St. NW
Washington, DC 20006
Phone: 202-637-5305
Email: oshmail@aflcio.org
Website: aflcio.org/
WorkersMemorialDay
APRIL 8, 2021
In Memory of Robert A. Cusolito, 1936-2021
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As an elected officer beginning in 1977, he served to two terms as Recording Secretary and five terms as Vice President of Local 301, a position from which he retired in 1998. In 1992, Brother Cusolito further served on the National Executive Board of the NPMHU as the Northeastern Region Vice President. Bob was also a veteran of the US Navy having served on the USS Salem (CA-139). We ask that you please keep Brother Cusolito and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
ROBERT CUSOLITO Obituary (1936 - 2021) - Tewksbury, MA - Boston Globe (legacy.com)
APRIL 6, 2021
Neil Ryan Named as Assistant to National Officers
and National CAD Representative
Effective Saturday, July 3, 2021, Neil Ryan will join the staff at the NPMHU’s National Office as Assistant to the National Officers and a member of the Contract Administration Department.
MARCH 31, 2021
USPS Issues Memorandum on American Rescue Plan Act--
Emergency Federal Employee Leave
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has advised the Postal Service that OPM does not anticipate issuing its official guidance on EFEL by April 1, 2021, the original anticipated end date for our interim process.
As previously noted, OPM is charged with administering the EFEL Fund (Fund) that will finance leave granted under the ARPA and, therefore, is required to issue guidance on how the leave is to be administered by covered agencies, including the Postal Service.
Because of OPM’s need to finalize its guidance, the Postal Service is limited in its ability to fully implement EFEL at this time.
SUBJECT: American Rescue Plan Act—Emergency Federal Employee Leave (pdf)
MARCH 26, 2021
MOU Establishes Pilot Program to Conduct Employee Screening/ COVID-19
Testing at the Morgan P&DC and the Michigan Metroplex P&DC
Please find linked above, a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding signed today regarding the Postal Service conducting Employee Screening & COVID-19 Testing Pilots at the Morgan Processing & Distribution Center (P&DC) in New York, and the Michigan Metroplex P&DC.
The purpose of the Pilot is to promote employee health and safety during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The Pilot will include both temperature screening and COVID-19 testing.
The pilot will run from April 26, 2021 through May 26, 2021, unless otherwise mutually agreed to by the parties. Please see the March 29, 2021 Memorandum of Understanding for full details.
COVID 19 Employee Health Screening (pdf)
MARCH 25, 2021
Postal Service releases Managers and Supervisors Face Covering Guidance
Please find linked above, a copy of the above-reference document from the Postal Service regarding Managers and Supervisors Face Covering Guidance. According to the Postal Service, our mission is even more critical, and the safety and wellness of employees is of the utmost importance. The Postal Service provides an essential service to our nation.
Taking steps to stay healthy and well means we can continue to be a stable, calming presence across the country. The Postal Service requires all employees, including supervisors and managers, to wear face coverings when social distancing of six (6) feet cannot be maintained in public, or in public-facing settings when required by state or local orders and directives, and when an employee who does not deal directly with the public cannot achieve or maintain social distancing in the workplace.
Postal Service releases Managers and Supervisors Face Covering Guidance (pdf)
MARCH 25, 2021
Mail Handlers Benefit Plan to Host Informational Webinars
for Newly Converted Fulltime Regulars
Did you recently convert to Fulltime Regular? If yes, you have 60 days
to make your decision and enroll in a FEHB plan. Register for an upcoming webinar
Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to the webinar.
If you do not receive the confirmation within an hour of registration, please check your email spam folder.
Beginning on Wednesday, March 17, 2021, Mail Handler Benefit Plan representatives will host informational webinars to provide an overview and discuss the features of the union sponsored health plan (MHBP®). Each webinar will run about 30 minutes and will include time for live questions and answers. These webinars are intended for our new career mail handlers, nearly 5,300 of which converted to fulltime regular effective March 13, 2021.
Remember, newly converted mail handlers have 60 days from the effective date of your career appointment to enroll in a Federal Employee Health Benefit (FEHB). If you don't make an election by that time, you are considered to have declined coverage, and you must wait until the next Open Season to enroll. Qualifying Life Events may permit additional opportunities to make a change outside of Open Season.
Register for an upcoming webinar
View informational videos
Download the MHBP 2021 Promotional Brochure (pdf)
Please find the webinar schedule below:
Monday March 29, 9 am EST Monday March 29, 12 noon EST
Tuesday, March 30, 9:00 AM EST Tuesday, March 30, 5:00 PM EST
Wednesday, March 31, 9:00 AM EST Wednesday March 31, 5pm EST
Monday April 5, 9 am EST Monday April 5, 12 noon EST
MARCH 2021 UPDATE
MARCH 23, 2021
PMG DeJoy Issues USPS Ten-Year Plan for Achieving
Service Excellence and Financial Sustainability
Earlier today, Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and the USPS Board of Governors released their long-awaited ten-year plan for the U.S. Postal Service, setting forth a series of strategies by which USPS management hopes to improve service and ensure financial stability.
The plan reviews the massive changes in mail volume and mail mix over the past several decades, and urges that a series of steps be adopted to deal with difficulties in processing and delivering mail, reducing employee turnover, and addressing long-term financial shortfalls. A copy of the plan is linked here.
As with all ambitious plans, its ultimate success is dependent on its details and its good-faith implementation. At this early point, however, the NPMHU can be supportive of the plan’s emphasis on growing package volume, on using new sources of postal revenue, on the necessity of legislative change (Repeal of the Retiree Health Benefits pre-funding requirement and Medicare Integration), on the establishment of forty-six parcel annexes, and on the need to stabilize the non-career postal workforce by providing a clearer path to career status.
To the extent the plan would rely on the closing or consolidation of mail processing facilities, the NPMHU has serious concerns but is prepared to work with USPS management to identify those changes that might make sense, if USPS management is prepared to admit error when its proposals are without foundation.
Later this week, Local Union representatives will gather with the National Officers and the National CAD to discuss and dissect the details of this ten-year plan. Watch out for coming announcements.
March 23, 2021 Memorandum to Local Presidents (pdf)
USPS Ten-Year Plan for Achieving Service Excellence and Financial Sustainability (pdf)
MAR 22, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Reach Agreement to Convert 865 MHAs
to Full-time Career Employment No Later Than May 22, 2021
March 22, 2021- Memorandum of Understanding Re Additional Mail Handler Staffing; Conversion of MHAs
Linked here is a new MOU just signed by the NPMHU and the Postal Service to provide for additional Mail Handler staffing, in large part by converting 865 Mail Handler Assistants to full-time regular career employment no later than May 22, 2021. Also attached is a chart listing the 43 facilities in which these 865 conversions will take place and the number of conversions that will take place in each listed facility.
As set forth in the MOU, the Postal Service has agreed to convert 865 MHAs to career status, in the listed facilities, by May 22, 2021. In exchange, the parties agree to extend the exception period for the continued employment of MHAs in excess of the 24.5% installation cap until June 4, 2021 as set forth below. MHAs hired in excess of the 24.5% installation cap for COVID related reasons remain subject to a separate MOU.
1. The parties agree to extend the exception period for the continued employment of MHAs in excess of the 24.5% installation cap as set forth below:
A. Facilities other than those listed on the attached table that are in excess of the 24.5% installation cap will separate Peak MHA hires (i.e., MHAs hired for reasons unrelated to COVID-19) on or before April 23, 2021, following the procedures of the current National Agreement.
B. Installations that plan to convert five or fewer non-career employees to career status in accordance with the attached table will be permitted to retain the number of Peak MHA hires above the 24.5% installation cap equal to the amount of conversions listed in the table beyond April 23, 2021. After the above-referenced conversions are completed and accounted for in the MHA cap, those retained Peak MHA hires above the 24.5% installation cap will be separated on or before June 4, 2021 following the procedures of the National Agreement. All other Peak MHA hires in these facilities will be separated on April 23, 2021, following the procedures of the current National Agreement.
C. After the above-referenced conversions are completed and accounted for in the MHA cap, facilities listed on the attached table that are in excess of the 24.5% installation cap and which plan to convert more than five non-career employees to career status in accordance with the attached table will separate any non-COVID related MHA hires on or before June 4, 2021 following the procedures of the current National Agreement.
Also attached is a copy of the Questions & Answers that have been agreed to for this MOU Re: Additional Mail Handler Staffing – March 22, 2021. Please do not hesitate to contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
MARCH 19, 2021
TIME FOR VACCINATION
As an African American male who was born and raised in Tuskegee Alabama, I had a relative that was part of the Tuskegee experiment. Most would think that I would be against the COVID-19 vaccination. This is far from the truth.
As Local President, for the last year I received an email list of all the postal employees that tested positive for Coronavirus in Southern California. At the high points it would be over a hundred employees a day for weeks at a time just in Southern California.
Eddie Cowan
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MARCH 19, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Sign Memorandum re: 2022 Annual Leave Carryover
and Annual Leave Exchange Option
Re: New Memoranda of Understanding - Annual Leave Carryover for Leave Year 2022 and Annual Leave Exchange Option for Leave Year 2022 (pdf)
Please find linked above a copy of two new Memoranda of Understanding that expands annual leave benefits for the 2022 leave year.
The first MOU allows for additional Annual Leave Carryover for the 2021 Leave Year. In the 2019 National Agreement, the MOU on Annual Leave Carryover allows regular work force employees to carryover 440 hours of accumulated annual leave. The new MOU on Annual Leave Carryover for Leave Year 2022 expands that limit and allows regular work force employees to carryover 520 hours of accumulated leave from leave year 2021 to leave year 2022.
The second MOU deals with the Annual Leave Exchange Option for the 2022 Leave Year. The Annual Leave Exchange Option MOU for Leave Year 2021 will allow career employees to sell back a maximum of 80 hours of annual leave prior to the beginning of the leave year provided the following criteria is met: 1) The employee must be at the maximum leave carryover ceiling (440 hours) at the start of the leave year and 2) the employee must have used fewer than 75 sick leave hours (excluding emergency sick leave taken under the Family First Coronavirus Response Act) in the 2021 leave year. Normally the maximum amount of hours that may be sold back under the 2019 National Agreement MOU on Annual Leave Exchange Option is limited to 40 hours.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
MARCH 19, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Renew Temporary Extensions
on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals
NPMHU and USPS Renew Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals (pdf)
Please find linked a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Temporary Extension on Step 3 and
Arbitration Appeals.
Due to the impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the parties have agreed to extend the time limits for appealing grievances to Step 3 and to arbitration for an additional period. This agreement is effective through June 4, 2021. Prior to the expiration of this agreement, the parties will revisit this issue to determine if an additional extension is warranted.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department or your Regional Director.
MARCH 19, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Sign Memorandum
- Suspension of Temporary Additional Paid Leave for MHAs
Re: Memorandum of Understanding - Suspension of Temporary Additional Paid Leave for MHAs (pdf)
Please find linked above a copy of a new Memorandum of Understanding regarding the suspension of the Temporary Additional Paid Leave for MHAs.
Due to the recent signing of the American Rescue Plan Act, MHAs may be granted up to 600 hours of paid Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL) for COVID-19 reasons. Therefore effective with the signing of this MOU, the MOU: Re : Temporary Additional Paid Leave for MHAs will be suspended. If EFEL becomes unavailable to employees during the course of this MOU, the parties will discuss reinstating the MOU Re: Temporary Additional Paid Leave for MHAs.
This MOU will expire on June 4, 2021. If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
MARCH 19, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Reach Agreement on Renewed Extension
of Various COVID Related Memoranda
March 19, 2021- Extension of Various COVID Related Memoranda (pdf)
Please find linked here copy of the MOU extending the following memoranda: MOU
1. Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID – 19 MOU
2. Temporary Exception Period – COVID – 19
3. Liberal Changes of Schedule and Leave Letter.
MARCH 19, 2021
USPS Releases Memo Addressing American Rescue Plan Act –
Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL)
Please find linked below a copy of the above referenced memorandum from the Postal Service regarding the American Rescue Plan Act – Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL). According to the Postal Service, this memorandum supplements the March 12, 2021, memorandum addressing the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) – Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL).
Following the issuance of that memorandum, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) advised the Postal Service that OPM is not prepared to implement EFEL at this time. OPM is charged with administering the EFEL Fund (Fund) that will finance leave granted under the ARPA and, therefore is required to issue guidance covering how the leave is to be administered by covered agencies, including the Postal Service. Because of OPM’s need to finalize their guidance, the Postal Service is limited in its ability to fully implement EFEL at this time.
Notwithstanding, until such time as OPM finalizes its guidance on the administration of EFEL, the Postal Service will be observing the interim process described in this memorandum. We are continuing to work closely with OPM and hope that it will finalize its official guidance sometime within the next couple of weeks.
March 19, 2021- Postal Service releases Officers Memo: American Rescue Plan Act – Emergency Federal Employee Leave (pdf)
MARCH 16, 2021
Understanding the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021
When President Biden was sworn into office on January 20, 2021, he promised that one of his first actions would be to help push through the next COVID-19 relief package. On March 11, the American Rescue Plan Act (P.L. 117-2) was signed into law.
While most attention has been paid to the provisions in the bill that give direct payments to 85% of Americans and to revenue grants for state and local government, there also are important provisions providing emergency leave and compensation to members of the postal workforce. As many NPMHU members are aware, last year’s CARES Act (P.L. 116-136) offered postal employees leave due to COVID-19 related illness; these statutory guarantees expired at the end of 2020, however, leaving employees without this safety net.
The American Rescue Plan revives this protection for all Mail Handlers and other postal employees by providing postal and federal employees with up to 600 hours or 15 weeks of leave, known as the Emergency Federal Employee Leave or EFEL. This leave is available if a postal employee is diagnosed with COVID-19 or experiencing symptoms, has to self-isolate due to COVID-19, seeks medical attention to address symptoms of COVID-19, or has to take care of children or elderly relatives due to lack of schooling or care.
Payments are capped at $35.00 an hour. It should be noted that the U.S. Department of the Treasury has allocated only $570 million to fund this leave for the entirety of the postal and federal workforces. Once these funds have been exhausted, Congress will have to revisit the need to provide leave again. Also, any payments received under this program will not count toward any retirement annuity and cannot be used to contribute to the Thrift Savings Plan. Additionally, the American Rescue Plan also provides for workers’ compensation for those diagnosed with COVID-19 due to exposure at work. Because the Postal Service has been a vital necessity to customers during the pandemic, NPMHU members and their postal workforce brothers and sisters have routinely put their health at risk while at work.
This compensation provision gives those in the USPS workforce the peace of mind that, if they contract the virus, they will be financially compensated through the Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs. The language of the American Rescue Plan went into effect on March 12, 2021, and this leave and compensation should already be available to NPMHU members and the rest of the postal workforce.
The EFEL will continue through September 30, 2021. Until final directives are issued, mail handlers seeking to use EFEL should submit a PS Form 3971 indicating for which of the eight qualifying reasons listed in the chart below they must take leave, and employees must affirmatively state that they are unable to work because of the qualifying reason. The eRMS Leave Code or Reason Code for the Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL) is 086-21.
If there are other questions or you need help getting access to these benefits, please contact your local union representatives or stewards or the NPMHU Contract Administration Department.
Memorandum: The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (pdf)
MARCH 15, 2021
Mail Handlers Benefit Plan to Host Informational Webinars for Newly Converted Fulltime Regulars
Did you recently convert to Fulltime Regular?
If yes, you have 60 days to make your decision and enroll in a FEHB plan.
Beginning on Wednesday, March 17, 2021, Mail Handler Benefit Plan representatives will host informational webinars to provide an overview and discuss the features of the union sponsored health plan (MHBP®).
Each webinar will run about 30 minutes and will include time for live questions and answers.
These webinars are intended for our new career mail handlers, nearly 5,300 of which converted to fulltime regular effective March 13, 2021.
Remember, newly converted mail handlers have 60 days from the effective date of your career appointment to enroll in a Federal Employee Health Benefit (FEHB). If you don't make an election by that time, you are considered to have declined coverage, and you must wait until the next Open Season to enroll.
Qualifying Life Events may permit additional opportunities to make a change outside of Open Season.
Register for an upcoming webinar
View informational videos
Download the MHBP 2021 Promotional Brochure (pdf)
Please find the webinar schedule below:
March 17, 2021 – 5:00 PM EST
March 22, 2021 – 9:00 AM EST March 22 – 12:00 PM EST
March 24, 2021 – 5:00 PM EST
March 29, 2021 – 9:00 AM EST March 29 12:00 PM EST
March 31, 2021 – 5:00 PM EST
April 5, 2021 – 9:00 AM EST April 05 – 12:00 PM EST
April 7, 2021 – 5:00 PM EST
MARCH 12, 2021
Effective March 12, 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act provides employees with up to 600 hours of paid Emergency Federal Employee Leave (EFEL). This leave is available to employees beginning on March 12, 2021, and continuing through September 30, 2021—or until the funding established in the Emergency Federal Employee Leave Fund (Fund) for reimbursement is exhausted. The leave is available to eligible employees who are unable to work due to one of eight qualifying reasons as summarized in the chart below:
As a reminder, the Postal Service provides an essential federal government service as part of the nation’s critical infrastructure. Therefore, postal employees are generally not subject to Federal, State, or local quarantine or isolation orders related to COVID-19, so employees will generally not be eligible to use EFEL for qualifying reason (1) above.
Additionally, no substantially similar condition has been identified that would qualify an employee to use leave for qualifying reason (6) above.
We are continuing to work the issues associated with implementation of these new leave requirements, and we anticipate receiving additional guidance from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), which will administer the Fund, in the coming weeks.
In the interim, employees seeking to use EFEL should submit a PS Form 3971 indicating for which of the eight qualifying reasons they must take leave, and employees must affirmatively state that they are unable to work because of the qualifying reason.
For now, this leave should be managed and tracked within the Enterprise Resource Management System (eRMS). Timekeepers will be instructed to enter the interim hours code 086-21 in eRMS for all employees, and then verify the Administrative Leave is entered in the appropriate timekeeping system using either hours code 086-21 for City or DACA Code O for Rurals.
We will update you with additional instructions and guidance as our processes for managing this new leave are developed and implemented.
Eddie Cowan
Local President
NPMHU/303
Winter 2021 Edition
MARCH 10, 2021
Statement from National Postal Mail Handlers Union President Paul V. Hogrogian
on House passage of the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, H.R. 842
Recent economic studies have shown what all NPMHU members and all of our union brother and sisters have known our entire careers: the right to unionize allows the working class greater personal economic growth; improves workplace safety; and, combatted income inequality.
Despite these benefits to the fiscal health of our national economy, federal laws were not strong enough to ensure members of the private sector have access to unions and the right to organize.
To overcome these issues, the House introduced the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO), H.R. 842, at the beginning of the 117th congressional session. The PRO Act strengthens the National Labor Relations Act by: protecting workers from anti-union intimidation and retaliation; preventing employers from preventing employees from organizing because of misclassification; and, ensuring unions can hold free and fair elections.
The House passed identical legislation in the 116th Congress, and I’m pleased that it had the same support in the 117th. With this continual support in the House, as well and the endorsement of President Biden, I urge the Senate to quickly take up this important legislation.
Statement from National Postal Mail Handlers Union President Paul V. Hogrogian on House passage of the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, H.R. 842 (pdf)
MARCH 3, 2021
NPMHU Supports Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union has been a sponsor and a participant of the JDRF Walk to cure diabetes for over 20 years and we will continue to walk until Type One becomes Type None! This year our walk will be held virtually on May 23, 2021.
We encourage everyone to get registered and participate in the Miles Towards Mission challenges leading up to the walk. You can log any miles walked in your participant center. So sign-up and get your walk on. Even if you can't walk with us, we still need your support. A dollar here and there adds up, no matter how small you may think it is, to someone with Diabetes it's a huge gift. Thank you in advance for your support! If you can't make it in person, we still need your support. Please visit the Mail Handlers JDRF One Walk team page and donate today.
FEBRUARY 22, 2021
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) set at $416
Effective February 27, 2021, (Pay Period 06-2021) all career Mail Handler craft employees are scheduled to receive a cost-of-living (COLA) adjustment as outlined in Article 9.3 of the 2019 National Agreement. This is the third of six possible COLA increases under the terms of the current agreement. This COLA increase is based on the upward change in the relevant Consumer Price Index (CPI) following release of the January 2021 Index, using the July 2019 CPI index as a base provides an annual increase of $416 for all Steps in Table 1 and for Step P of Table 2. The remaining Steps in Table 2 will receive the proportional COLA increase percentages as outlined in Article 9.3 of the National Agreement.
WAGE CHART (Effective PP06-2021) pdf
FEBRUARY 2021 MAIL HANDLER UPDATE
FEBRUARY 17, 2021
NPMHU President Paul V. Hogrogian Endorsement of
Resolution Prioritizing USPS COVID Vaccines
For almost a year now, the National Postal Mail Handlers Union and the entirety of the postal workforce, have risked their own and their families’ health and safety just by going to work during the global coronavirus pandemic.
Mail handlers have always served an essential roll. But now our work is more important than ever as we ensure the delivery of necessary government and personal correspondence, vital prescriptions, and needed home goods during this time of crisis. Despite social distancing when possible and the use of PPEs, over 3,500 mail handlers have tested positive for COVID-19 since the beginning the of the pandemic. This along with quarantining and caring for our children and elders has not only impacted our lives, but also the Postal Service’s on-time delivery rates and service.
Understanding the value of our jobs and the inherent risk postal employees now find themselves in, the Centers for Disease Control recommended Postal Service personnel to be considered frontline essential workers to be vaccinated against COVID-19 during the second part of phase one vaccination, or Phase 1b. The CDC recommended to states’ health departments to follow this guidance, however, several states’ plans do not include postal employees in their plans.
Our friends in the House of Representatives, however, recognized the necessity of our work and the risk we take on a daily basis during the pandemic and introduced H. Res. 108. This resolution, as introduced by Representatives Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08), Carolyn Maloney (D-NY-12), Gerry Connolly (D-VA-11) and Brenda Lawrence (D-MI-14), emphasizes the importance of the work of Postal Service employees and calls upon states to prioritize them in vaccine distribution plans. NPMHU fully endorses this resolution, and I ask all members of the House to cosponsor it.
Statement of NPMHU National President Paul V. Hogrogian Endorsing H.Res. 108 (pdf)
FEBRUARY 11, 2021
Committee Announces Hearing with Postmaster General and Stakeholders
on Legislative Proposals to Help Postal Service
Washington, D.C. (Feb. 11, 2021)—Today, Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney and Rep. James Comer, the Chairwoman and Ranking Member of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, invited Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, Board of Governors Chairman Ron Bloom, Postal Service Inspector General Tammy L. Whitcomb, American Postal Workers Union President Mark Dimondstein, and Quad/Graphics Chairman Joel Quadracci to a hearing on legislative reforms for the Postal Service.
“The hearing will examine legislative proposals to place the Postal Service on a more sustainable financial footing going forward while preserving the delivery performance standards on which the American people rely,” Chairwoman Maloney and Ranking Member Comer wrote.
The hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 24, 2021, and a livestream will be available on the Committee website.
oversight.house.gov/legislation/hearings
FEBRUARY 8, 2021
LOCAL PRESIDENT EDDIE COWAN MEETS WITH CONGRESSWOMAN KATIE PORTER
AT SANTA ANA P&DC
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Congresswoman Katie Porter represents California’s 45th Congressional District. In Washington,
Congresswoman Porter has remained committed to putting Orange County families first. As a member of Natural Resources Committee and the House Oversight and Reform Committee, she’s asked tough questions of bank CEOs and administration officials to hold them accountable to the American people.
She has also been a key supporter of legislation to reduce the influence of dark money in politics and restore ethics to Washington. As a single working mom, Rep. Porter knows firsthand about the challenges faced by working families. She’s introduced bipartisan legislation to allow families to set aside more pre-tax income for dependent care.
She’s continued to press for a repeal of the limits on the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction, which has hit California’s middle-class families especially hard. Before coming to Congress, Porter spent nearly two decades taking on the special interests that dominate American politics and drown out the voices of working families.
As California’s independent watchdog against the banks, she made sure the big banks that had cheated Orange County homeowners followed through on their promise to help affected families get back on their feet. As a consumer finance expert, Congresswoman Porter also helped Congress pass the original Credit CARD Act in 2009, which enacted federal protections from abusive credit card fees.
FEBRUARY 03, 2021
NPMHU President Paul V. Hogrogian Issues Statement
Endorsing the USPS Fairness Act
For fifteen years, the United States Postal Service has been obligated to prefund its retiree healthcare costs at 100%. This mandate resulted in the annual loss of $5 billion over a decade and has been the primary cause of financial deficits since 2013. Because of these losses, the Postal Service faced cuts in services and cannot focus on revenue growth.
Unfortunately, the coronavirus pandemic added to this financial instability. The USPS faced losses in revenue due to a drop in first class mail as well as increased costs associated with protecting the health and safety of the dedicated workforce during this global health crisis. But the pandemic also proved to Americans how it is necessary to support sustainable Postal Service.
Recognizing the problems of this undue burden and the financial limitations it creates, Representatives Peter DeFazio (D-OR-04), Tom Reed (R-NY-23), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Colin Allred (D-TX-32), and Carolyn Maloney (D-NY-12) and Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Brian Schatz (D-HI) introduced the USPS Fairness Act (H.R. 695/S. 145) to repeal the prefunding mandate. The House passed this important legislation in the 116th Congress with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 309-106.
These bills are the first step towards creating a sustainable Postal Service. NPMHU endorses this important legislation and will continue to work with Congress to develop postal reform legislation that addresses the USPS’ financial shortcoming and protects its workforce.
National Postal Mail Handlers Union National President Paul V. Hogrogian Statement Endorsing the USPS Fairness Act (pdf)
FEBRUARY 02, 2021
LiUNA Issues Statement on the Death of AFL-CIO President Emeritus John Sweeney
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Washington, D.C. (February 2, 2021) – Terry O’Sullivan, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – made the following statement today:
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On Monday, February 1, the world lost, and heaven gained, a true giant of justice; AFL-CIO President Emeritus John Sweeney. In his 86 years, John Sweeney did more than anyone else to advance the cause of working men and women, both in the United States, and around the world. John Sweeney devoted his entire life and career to the cause, the purpose, and the mission of the global trade union movement. As the incredible leader of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and, later, as President of the AFL-CIO, John ensured that the voices of working families were heard, and their power felt, on Wall Street and Main Street, in the halls of Congress and the White House, and in factories and job sites throughout our great country. John truly left our movement, our nation, and our world, far better than the way that he found them.
John Sweeney was the real deal; a legendary leader, a compassionate and relentless working-class champion who never forgot where he came from, who never forgot the value of hard work and those who do it, and who made sure that no one forgot that the greatest assets of any country are its working men and women. The proud son of working-class Irish immigrants, John saw, first hand, the enormous contributions his parents made to their adopted country, and the difference the labor movement made in their lives.
John Sweeney was one of the most decent and honorable individuals I’ve ever met, and a dear friend whose advice and counsel I sought regularly. He was a man of his word, who said what he meant, and who meant what he said. We bonded not only around our shared values, and our commitment to the labor movement; but also around our love for our common ancestral homeland, and our desire to see that great land united, and at peace. I will miss his fighting Irish spirit, his contagious smile, and his infectious laughter.
On behalf of the 500,000 strong, proud, and united men and women of the Laborers’ International Union of North America, I offer our deepest condolences and sympathy to the entire Sweeney Family. The light of John’s life may have gone out in this world, but it will live on forever in the cherished memories of all those who were fortunate enough to have known and worked with him.
FEBRUARY 01, 2021
Workers Mourn the Passing of AFL-CIO President Emeritus John Sweeney
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John Sweeney was a legend, plain and simple. He was guided into unionism by his Catholic faith, and not a single day passed by when he didn’t put the needs of working people first. John viewed his leadership as a spiritual calling, a divine act of solidarity in a world plagued by distance and division.
The son of Irish immigrants, he used work as a way to directly apply his values, consistently exhibiting grit over flash and pursuing progress instead of posturing. He built SEIU into a powerhouse, doubling its membership, earning respect across the labor movement and in the halls of power.
Throughout his storied life, John used the lessons he learned as a ground-level union leader to uphold dignity for all working people and expand human rights worldwide. I was proud to join his insurgent ticket in 1995, which recommitted the AFL-CIO to worker organizing and collective power.
As president, John was a great leader and true innovator, driving the labor movement forward. We stand on that foundation today as we take on the challenges of inequality, systemic racism and much more. Former President Bill Clinton called John “a force for inclusion and activism.” I was blessed to call him a brother, a mentor and a friend. May God bless John’s memory, his family and the labor movement to which he devoted his life.
FEBRUARY 01, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Sign MOU on Late Enrollment Exception for Health Benefits for MHAs
The late enrollment exception will only apply to MHAs who were hired on or after November 7, 2020 and who are permitted to be retained in accordance with the Memoranda of Understanding,
Re: Additional Mail Handler Staffing dated December 24, 2020 and
Re: Temporary Exception Period – COVID-19 dated March 26. 2020. If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
Please find linked here, copy of a new Memorandum of Understanding signed today that allows for a late enrollment exception for signing up for health benefits for MHAs. (pdf)
JANUARY 29, 2021
USPS AND COVID-19 FAMILIES FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT (FFCRA)
Dear Sisters and Brothers:The NPMHU National Executive Board and its Contract Administration Department are dedicated to protecting the health and safety of our craft and all bargaining unit members during the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the pandemic, we have worked on ensuring that proper COVID-19 protocols on PPEs, the wearing of masks, deep cleanings, and regular safety talks were established and enforced.
The NPMHU also negotiated several “COVID Memoranda” and secured a “liberal leave” policy with regard to COVID-related absences.With the continuing winter surge of the disease and record numbers of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths, the NPMHU remains deeply concerned and vigilant. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently has identified variants that are circulating globally and have been identified in at least 20 States. •In the United Kingdom (UK), a new variant called B.1.1.7 has emerged with an unusually large number of mutations.
This variant spreads more easily and quickly than other variants. Currently, there is no evidence that it causes more severe illness or increased risk of death. This variant was first detected in September 2020 and is now highly prevalent in London and southeast England. It has since been detected in numerous countries around the world, including the United States and Canada.
• In South Africa, another variant called 1.351 has emerged independently of the variant detected in the UK. This variant, originally detected in early October 2020, shares some mutations with the variant detected in the UK. There have been cases caused by this variant outside of South Africa, and it has been recently detected in the State of South Carolina.
• In Brazil, a variant called P.1 emerged and was identified in four travelers from Brazil, who were tested during routine screening at Haneda airport outside Tokyo, Japan. This variant contains a set of additional mutations that may affect its ability to be recognized by antibodies. This variant already has been detected in Minnesota.
These variants seem to spread more easily and quickly than other variants, which may lead to more cases of COVID-19. Rigorous and increased compliance with public health mitigation strategies, such as vaccination, physical distancing, use of masks, hand hygiene, and isolation and quarantine, will be essential to limiting the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and protecting public health.
Congress last year provided some additional protection to help slow the spread of the disease and help protect the health of workers, by passing the Family First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) which provided up to 14 days of paid “COVID related” Emergency Paid Sick Leave and 12 weeks of Expanded Family Medical Leave. However, “Family First” leave expired on December 31, 2020 when Congress failed to renew it. While it is no longer current law, the NPMHU firmly believes that USPS management has the duty, option, and the responsibility, to continue to abide by the “Family First” principles and grant paid “administrative” leave for those off work due to exposure or diagnosis of COVID, regardless of where the exposure may have taken place.
Management, however, has refused to do so. Instead, postal management has issued a “decision tree,” dated January 21, 2021, that indicates administrative leave will only be granted if the employee contracted the disease in the workplace or if the employee was placed into quarantine because of close contact in the workplace or with other postal employees. It is the policy of the USPS that, in all other situations, employees must use their own personal leave. The NPMHU believes that this USPS position is ill conceived and short sighted. It will only result in employees, who would otherwise be in quarantine and on administrative leave, reporting to work and putting their co-workers at risk.
Employees who have been determined to have been in close contact (as defined by the CDC) with an individual who has tested positive for COVID-19 or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 themselves should report that exposure or diagnosis to postal management. Should management deny Administrative Leave and force the employee to use their own annual or sick leave, the appropriate grievances should be filed.
Meanwhile, NPMHU Legislative/Political Director Katie Maddox continues the hard work in the legislative arena to restore the provisions of “Families First” Act that expired at the end of last year. The NPMHU also continues to advocate that postal employees, as essential workers, be given priority access to the COVID vaccines, a priority with which many States and localities have agreed. We continue to promote and advocate for the mandatory wearing of masks as a basic health and safety measure in the workplace. Please Stay Safe!
Please disseminate this information as you deem appropriate. Should you have any questions, contact the Contract Administration Department.
| USPS AND COVID-19 FAMILIES FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT (FFCRA) |
JANUARY 28, 2021
USPS Issues COVID-19 Return to Work Instructions
Re: Postal Service Occupational Safety & Health updates COVID-19 Return to Work Instructions.
Please find linked below a copy of the above-reference document from the Postal Service regarding COVID-19 Return to Work Instructions.
COVID-19 Return to Work Instructions Updated Guidance, 1-16-2021 (pdf)
JANUARY 25, 2021
JANUARY 18, 2021
Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream of an America, in which all people are measured only by their character and by their actions, is more urgent than ever.
As we approach the national holiday honoring his legacy, the scourge of racism and extremism remains all too alive. We need only look to recent events in our nation’s Capitol to see confirmation of the deep chasm between our highest ideals and deepest flaws.
I, however, continue to share Dr. King's conviction that the “arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice." We must not stand idly by waiting for others to do the work for us though. It's up to each of us as strong, proud, and united trade unionists and defenders of the rights of working men and women to work harder and faster to bend that arc.
We must make our unions bigger, more active and stronger so the uplifting and equalizing power of collective bargaining contracts are available to all. We must speak out clearly, loudly and unequivocally against bias, bigotry and racism whether it is in our community or in our halls of power, from statehouses to the Halls of Congress and the White House.
We can make Dr. King’s dream real so that every American, regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender, wealth or the lack of it, has equal rights and equal opportunity. But we have to act to achieve his dream.
On behalf of myself, General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni, and the entire LIUNA General Executive Board, I ask you to join me in continuing to fight for the legacy of Dr. King and his vision of a better America.
JANUARY 13, 2021
USPS Delivers Mandatory Stand-Up Talk (JAN 8, 2021)
re: COVID-19 vaccine availability
JANUARY 12, 2021
JANUARY 12, 2021
NPMHU and USPS Release MOU
Re: Additional Mail Handler Staffing Q & A
With the recent Memorandum of Understanding Re: Additional Mail Handling Staffing, the parties agreed to jointly develop and implement a Question and Answer document addressing and affirming the parties’ mutual understanding and interpretation of the provisions contained in that MOU.
While the Q&A document does not address every matter, the interpretations contained in the Q&A should be self-explanatory.
Please feel free to circulate the attached Questions and Answers as you deem appropriate, and please do not hesitate to contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
Memorandum of Understanding Re: Additional Mail Handler Staffing Q & As (PDF)
JANUARY 07, 2021
NPMHU National President Paul Hogrogian Statement
on Georgia Run-offs and Assault on the U.S. Capitol
Wednesday, January 6, 2021, showed Americans a great win for Democrats in the Georgia Senate run-offs, but also how precious and fragile our democratic process is. The day began with a win for Rev. Raphael Warnock, who will serve as the first African American Senator for the state of Georgia. Later in the day, media outlets reported Jon Ossoff defeated Sen. David Perdue, becoming the youngest member of the Senate since 1973.
Senators-elect Rev. Warnock and Ossoff both advocated for workers’ rights throughout their candidacy, promoting the right to organize; protecting workers’ health during the COVID-19 pandemic; and, calling to safeguard retirement benefits. The NPMHU looks forward to working with both of these distinguished leaders on postal issues in the 117th Congress.
However, this win for the labor movement was diminished when a riotous mob attacked the U.S. Capitol while members of the House and Senate certified the votes of the electoral college. Provoked by President Trump with baseless claims of rampant fraud and corruption during the 2020 presidential election, hundreds of men and women stormed the Capitol, committing unlawful entry, destruction of property, and brought our country’s democratic system and the city of Washington, DC to a standstill.
Make no mistake: these acts were not patriotic. These were acts of violence and terrorism that are strongly condemned by the NPMHU. Members of Congress were finally able to certify the election in the early hours of January 7, and President-elect Joe Biden will be sworn into office on January 20.
As a nation, we need to move forward from this. As Mail Handlers, we know the value of elections, the right to vote, and democracy. I saw firsthand your dedication to these values as the Postal Service and American voters relied on you all to ensure ballots were delivered on time during an unprecedented election. Through the Union’s continued work, we will continue to push these values, not only among our fellow NPMHU members, but also throughout the country.
NPMHU National President Paul Hogrogian Statement on Georgia Run-offs and Assault on the U.S. Capitol (pdf)
JANUARY 07, 2021
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LIUNA Statement
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Washington, D.C. (January 6, 2021) – Terry O’Sullivan, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – made the following statement today: The disgusting violence during the Congressional Electoral College vote debate today, marks a repulsive moment in the history of the United States of America. Our country is better than this.
What happened today is a direct result of the irresponsible and reprehensible lies and misinformation fomented by President Trump and his allies. After losing roughly 60 legal challenges, including in the Supreme Court, the continued deceit spread by him and his enablers is deplorable and un-American. Their attempts to undermine a fair and legal election are tantamount to treason.
He and his lackeys have attacked our democracy, inciting violence and insurrection. LIUNA also condemns the Republican Members of Congress who have refused to certify the legitimate electoral college results. With their actions, they have declared themselves enemies of our great Republic and democracy. LIUNA will never forget who they are.
I am convinced more than ever that in spite of the division, strife, and the violence which we saw today, our nation, our democracy, and our institutions will never be broken and will continue on as long as we stand together and work together. We must come together and move past this terrible and tragic moment. We as a country are bigger and better than our disagreements.
There are many more individuals of courage and sense than the cowards who attacked us today. The American people and the strong, proud, and united brothers and sisters of LIUNA understand the meaning of dedication, commitment, and solidarity. Let us recommit ourselves to working together for the common good, a stronger democracy and the economic well-being of the working-class of this country.
JANUARY 07, 2020
LIUNA Praises Selection of Mayor Walsh for Labor Secretary
Washington, D.C. (January 7, 2021) – Terry O’Sullivan, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – made the following statement today: The 500,000 strong, proud, and united men and women of LIUNA are ecstatic and thrilled that President-elect Joe Biden has chosen a dues-paying, card-carrying, second-generation member of Laborers’ Local Union 223, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, to be the next U.S. Secretary of Labor.
Marty Walsh is a living embodiment of the American dream: he worked his way up from the field to become a leader of his local union, the head of the Boston Metropolitan Building Trades Council, Mayor of Boston, and now, U.S. Secretary of Labor. He is a hard-charging, hard-fighting, tireless and tenacious working class warrior whose word is his bond, who says what he means and means what he says, and who can always be counted on to stand with working men and women.
Marty never forgets where he came from; he values hard work and those that do it; and he has seen, first hand, the power of the Trade Union Movement to transform lives. As a labor leader and community activist, Marty Walsh helped tens of thousands of workers build strong, middle-class lives for themselves and their families.
As Mayor of Boston, Marty Walsh has made his deep roots in the Trade Union Movement a central part of his political career, proudly wearing his union affiliation on his sleeve, and displaying his union card wherever he goes. He has fought for Boston’s working families, made city government more responsive to all those who live and work in Boston, and distinguished himself as one of the hardest-working, most innovative big-city leaders in our nation today.
I know that with his dedication and devotion to the cause, the purpose, and the mission of the Labor Movement, Marty Walsh will restore and re-energize the Department of Labor’s role as a powerful guardian of workers, and strong and effective enforcer of labor laws. He will fight for all working people, regardless of where they come from, what language they speak, or what kind of work they do. He will work to bring skills training and a stronger voice on the job to millions of American workers who too often have been disregarded.
He is also a leader that has a history of working cooperatively with employers to create middle class family supporting jobs. We are awed and inspired that the top labor post in our great country will be occupied by one of our own LIUNA brothers. The choice of Mayor Walsh shows that, when it comes to the agency responsible for enforcing our nation’s labor laws, President-elect Joe Biden not only talks the talk; he truly walks the walk. We congratulate Marty on this appointment, and look forward to working with him, and the Biden administration, in the months and years to come.
JANUARY 4, 2021
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Supervisor and Management Guidance
updated January 1, 2021
A copy of the above-referenced document from the Postal Service regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Supervisor and Management Guidance, updated January 1, 2021. (pdf)
Please find linked
DECEMBER 24, 2020
NPMHU Negotiates MOU With USPS
Converting 5,288 MHAs to Full-time Career Status
Linked here, please find a new MOU just signed by the NPMHU and the Postal Service to provide for additional Mail Handler staffing, in large part by converting 5,288 Mail Handler Assistants to full-time regular career employment no later than March 13, 2021. Also attached is a 4-page chart listing the 183 facilities in which these 5,288 conversions will take place and the number of conversions that will take place in each listed facility.
A copy of these documents was distributed to each Local President on December 24, 2020. Please do not hesitate to contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
Memorandum of Understanding Re Additional Mail Handler Staffing; Conversion of MHAs (pdf)
DECEMBER 23, 2020
NPMHU and USPS Renew Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals
Due to the impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the parties have agreed to extend the time limits for appealing grievances to Step 3 and to arbitration for an additional period. This agreement is effective through March 26, 2021. Prior to the expiration of this agreement, the parties will revisit this issue to determine if an additional extension is warranted.
Please find linked a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Temporary Extension on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals (pdf)
DECEMBER 22, 2020
National Postal Mail Handlers Union National President Paul V. Hogrogian
Statement on the COVID-19 Stimulus Package
DECEMBER 22, 2020
NPMHU and USPS Reach Agreement on
Renewed Extension of Various COVID Related Memoranda
1. MOU – Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID – 19
2. MOU – Temporary Additional Leave for MHAs This extension provides the Mail Handler Assistants (MHAs) the opportunity to utilize the 80 hours of paid leave provided in the original MOU, it does not provide an additional 80 hours.
3. MOU – Temporary Exception Period – COVID – 19
4. Liberal Changes of Schedule and Leave Letter dated March 23, 2020.
Please find linked a copy of the MOU extending the following memoranda (pdf)
DECEMBER 16, 2020
Postal Service delivers Mandatory Stand-Up Talk
re: Face covering and mask update
According to the Postal Service, the requirement for employees to use face coverings or masks continues when social distancing of six (6) feet cannot be maintained in public, or in public-facing settings when required by state or local orders or directives.
Please find linked here a copy of the above-reference documents from the Postal Service regarding a Mandatory Stand-Up Talk re: Face covering and mask update. (pdf)
DECEMBER 8, 2020
USPS reissues Essential Service Provider Letter to all employees and contractors
Essential Service Provider Letter
Law Enforcement Official: The bearer of this letter with an accompanying U.S. Postal Service identification badge provides essential services of the federal government. The Postal Service is continuing to fulfill its critical public service mission by accepting and delivering mail and packages in accordance with federal law. The Postal Service’s provision of mail and package delivery services is not affected by State and local government actions that are restricting commercial and personal activities through curfews and other measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the civil unrest in a number of communities throughout the country, including the recent order or directive issued for the geographic areas under your jurisdiction.
This exemption includes the employees’ and contractors’ time traveling to and from their workplaces. We are working closely with federal, state, and local health authorities to ensure that our continued operations during these times of national and local emergencies are conducted in a manner that protects the safety of our employees and the public. Confirmation of this individual’s status as a Postal Service employee or contractor may be received by contacting the employee’s supervisor at [number].
Please disseminate this information, as you deem appropriate and should you have any questions, or comments and/or suggestions regarding the above, please contact this office or forward your responses to the Contract Administration Department.
DECEMBER 8, 2020
USPS delivers Mandatory Stand-Up Talk
re: Essential services update: December 2020
The Postal Service is continuing normal operations while state and local governments deal with the COVID-19 pandemic in communities throughout the United States.
Our customers are depending on us — especially during this peak holiday season — and we are taking unprecedented precautions to stay safe and to continue to deliver for our country. It’s important to know that the Postal Service is part of the critical infrastructure of this nation, and to clarify that as employees, you are providing an essential public service of the American government.
This means that for the purpose of engaging in your work for the Postal Service, you are exempt from “curfews,” “lockdowns,” “shelter-in-place” orders, general quarantines and other restrictions that may be imposed by state and local governments.
Please find linked a copy of the above-referenced document from the Postal Service regarding Essential
services update: December 2020 (pdf)
DECEMBER 4, 2020
USPS delivers Mandatory Stand-Up Talk
re: Operation Santa – letters and packages
| USPS DELIVERS MANDATORY STAND-UP TALK RE: OP SANTA LETTERS AND PACKAGES |
DECEMBER 4, 2020
Reappointment Opportunities for MHAs Separated for Lack of Work
Please find enclosed a copy of a new Memorandum of Understanding signed today in order to accommodate the hundreds of MHAs hired under the Memorandum of Understanding “Temporary Exception Period-COVID-19” dated March 26, 2020 and the subsequent extensions of this MOU.
The Memorandum of Understanding “Mail Handler Assistant Employees” under Item 3, Other Provisions, Article 15, number 3 states in relevant part:“MHAs separated for lack of work before the end of their term will be given preference for reappointment ahead of other MHAs with less relative seniority and ahead of other applicants who have not served as MHAs, provided that the need for hiring arises within twelve (12) months of their separation.” (emphasis added).
The parties agree that for MHAs hired between March 26, 2020 and December 31, 2020, the above provision will be amended to read “within twenty-four (24) months of their separation.
”If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
| Reappointment Opportunities MHAs |
DECEMBER 4, 2020
NPMHU Convention Postponed Until August 2022
Out of an abundance of caution, the 2020 NPMHU National Convention is once again being postponed. In view of the coronavirus pandemic, the National Executive Board has concluded that this is the only responsible course of action. The Mail Handlers Union continues to prioritize the safety, health and well-being of delegates, guests, family, and staff.
To that end, we have negotiated the following revised arrangements for the 2020 quadrennial convention. The convention proceedings will be reduced to a modified four-day event and will still take place at the Hyatt Regency at Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado. The main delegate arrival and registration will take place on Sunday, August 7, 2022. The convention is scheduled to convene the morning of Monday, August 8, 2022, with the closing convention session to take place on Thursday, August 11, 2022. Additional details will be mailed to each delegate in the coming days and posted at the
NPMHU Convention site.
DECEMBER 2, 2020
Arbitrator Sharnoff Issues Decision in SPSS Merits Dispute
Linked below, please find a copy of National Arbitrator Sharnoff’s decision on the merits of the dispute concerning the Small Parcel Sorting System or SPSS. Not unexpectedly, the arbitrator rejected the claims filed by both the NPMHU and the APWU, and upheld the Postal Service’s August 7, 2015 revised jurisdictional determination for jobs on the SPSS.
December 2, 2020: Arbitrator Sharnoff’s Decision in SPSS Merits Dispute (pdf)
NOVEMBER 30, 2020
NPMHU ARTHUR S. VALLONE NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (2021-2022)
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union is pleased to offer the opportunity for career craft members of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, and members of their immediate families, to apply for scholarship assistance from the NPMHU Arthur S. Vallone National Scholarship Program.
Specific eligibility requirements for the program are detailed here.
When you buy union, you're supporting good jobs in American communities, jobs that provide living wages and benefits, safe working conditions, and dignity and respect for work. Look for these quality products, produced by union members, when preparing for your Thanksgiving feast.
NOVEMBER 25, 2020
Happy Thanksgiving
The Thanksgiving Holiday season is upon us, a time filled with gratitude and hope for what is to come. While this year’s holiday will be different for many of us, we remain thankful for what sustains us: our families, our nation and our union.
Many of us are struggling with loss and with the coronavirus’ threat to our safety, our economic well-being, and our ability to be with family and friends. How we live our lives has temporarily changed. And we are mindful of others struggling on this holiday – men, women and families who are serving in our Armed Forces far from home. We must keep them in our thoughts and prayers.
We are hopeful because we know that we can face and overcome challenges as working people have always done. There is no doubt that the bond of family, country and union will see us through again. I personally am thankful and owe a debt of gratitude for the dedication, skills and hard work of every LIUNA member who continue to strengthen our union and our nation.
On behalf of myself, General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni and the entire General Executive Board, I wish each of our proud, strong and united LIUNA brothers and sisters a safe, meaningful and happy Thanksgiving.
NOVEMBER 24, 2020
| NPMHU LOCAL 303 -2021 Calendar |
NOVEMBER 19, 2020
Mail Handlers to Receive Wage Increase Effective November 21, 2020
As provided for in Article 9.1 of the NPMHU 2019 National Agreement, the wage scales for all Mail Handler employees will be adjusted upward effective November 21, 2020. This is the second of three guaranteed wage increases provided for in the 2019 contract. Specifically, with regard to career employees: Effective November 21, 2020 – the basic annual salary for each grade and step of Table One and Table Two shall be increased by an amount equal to 1.0% of the basic annual salary for the grade and step in effect on September 20, 2019.
In addition to the general increases provided in Section 9.1 above, MHAs will receive an increase of 1.0% annually, for a total of 2.1% effective November 23, 2019, 2.0% effective November 21, 2020.
Click here to view or download a chart which reflects the new wage rates, for both career and MHA Mail Handlers, resulting from these November 21, 2020 contractual increases.
Consistent with Article XIV, Section 3 of the NPMHU National Constitution, we will be implementing a regular membership dues increase of one dollar ($1.00) per pay period to correspond with the second guaranteed wage increase provided for in the 2019 National Agreement. We are attempting to time the dues increase to coincide with the wage increase that is effective on November 21, 2020 (Pay Period 25) to be reflected in paychecks issued on December 11, 2020.
NOVEMBER 16, 2020
2021 Health Benefits Update
NOVEMBER 9, 2020
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LIUNA...You made it happen. Thank You! Dear Brothers and Sisters: Let me begin by thanking each and every one of you for all of your hard work during this extraordinary election. You showed yourselves to be tough, tenacious working-class warriors who lived up to the ideals of those who came before us.
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Make no mistake about it: the 500,000 strong, proud, and united men and women of LIUNA made a crucial difference in the outcome of this election, particularly in battleground states. YOU kicked ass! YOU delivered the presidency.
YOU helped push Joe Biden and Kamala Harris over the top, and YOU helped elect many pro-union, pro-labor, and pro-family candidates to office. The American people have spoken, and it is now time for everyone to honor their will. Baseless, frivolous, and unfounded attempts to throw out or stop counting votes are an affront to law and order, and a direct assault on the very foundations of our great republic.
Through war and peace, boom and bust, good times and bad, our orderly transfer of power has been, and must remain, a shining example of the rule of law. When Joe Biden and Kamala Harris take office in January, we will have two of our own in the highest offices in the land. Joe and Kamala truly understand the trials and tribulations of working men and women; they never forget where they came from; and they value hard work and the people who do it.
I am confident that over the next four years, they will build back better, restore our standing in the world, and help all Americans prosper and succeed. Throughout these challenging times, one thing remains constant: the core commitment of our great International Union to the principles of justice, honor, and strength.
In the months and years to come, we will continue to stand together on behalf of the cause, the purpose, and the mission of LIUNA and the entire trade union movement. We will never back down, we will never back up, we will never retreat, and we sure as hell will never surrender, in the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights, civil rights, and human rights.
Thank you again for all that you have done and continue to do to keep this union strong. The American people felt the power of LIUNA, and will never forget it. May you feel the power; may you use the power; and may you be the power.
NOVEMBER 7, 2020
NPMHU National President Paul Hogrogian
Statement on President-Elect Joseph R. Biden
The year 2020 has been unprecedented, and was capped with an unparalleled election. Our country is still in the midst of a global pandemic; our national economy is suffering; and many Americans are uncertain of the future. Yet, NPMHU members and our postal brothers and sisters went above and beyond to ensure the sanctity of the democratic process by ensuring mail in ballots got out to voters and back to election officials on time. I commend your work and dedication.
Voter turnout this year was astounding. The country saw overwhelming participation in vote by mail initiatives, early voting programs, and election day polling. As a result, the American public showed support for Joe Biden, electing him to be our 46th President, together with Kamala Harris to be the first woman Vice President.
We spent the past four years under the Trump Administration protecting our members and our jobs against threats of privatization, attacks on our collective bargaining rights, and our hard-earned benefits. We fought to preserve an institution that is enshrined in our Constitution. Now we have a pro-postal and pro-labor friend in the White House. During his candidacy, President-elect Biden made several promises to the postal community: pushing to repeal the prefunding mandate that lead to USPS’ financial instability; protecting service standards so Americans in urban, suburban, and rural areas receive first-class mail and parcels in a timely manner; and maintaining collective bargaining so that the NPMHU can continue to fight for our earned pay and benefits. We’ll need to work hard to make sure these promises are kept.
Beyond protecting the basic principles of the Postal Service, we will also continue to work on comprehensive postal reform within Congress. While we now have support from the White House, the NPMHU will still strive for a bipartisan reform package that will provide a secure and strong future for the Postal Service. I’m glad to say many of our postal friends and champions are returning to the House and Senate, putting us in a better place to push postal legislation forward.
I’d like to thank all NPMHU members who stepped up with their time and energy to campaign for our friends and champions’ reelection as well as candidates supportive of our issues. Regardless of the outcome, let it be known that your hard work and dedication does not go unappreciated.
This was a tremendous win for the postal community and our labor brothers and sisters. We still have a lot of work to do, but with the right people in the White House, we’ll be able to strengthen the USPS and protect our members.
Fraternally,
Paul Hogrogian National President
Statement of NPMHU President Paul V. Horgrogian on President-Elect Joseph R. Biden (pdf)
NOVEMBER 2, 2020
President Hogrogian Releases November 2, 2020 Message to the Membership
Message from President Paul Hogrogian (pdf)
NOVEMBER 2, 2020
LiUNA General President Terry O'Sullivan
Administers Oath of Office to NPMHU Executive Board
OCTOBER 30, 2020
Postal Service releases updated Close Contact Tracing Protocol
Close Contact Tracing Protocol, 10-28-2020 (pdf)
OCTOBER 28, 2020
NPMHU Election Committee Announces
Results of 2020 Elections for Eastern and Western Regional Vice Presidents
The ballot counts for this year's elections for the Eastern and Western Regional Vice Presidents were completed on Tuesday, October 27, 2020, and the official results have been certified by the American Arbitration Association.
Results of 2020 Elections for Eastern and Western Regional Vice Presidents (pdf)
OCTOBER 27, 2020
A MESSAGE FROM VICE PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN to LiUNA MEMBERS
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Senator Harris and I are proud and grateful for your endorsement––a vote of confidence that we humbly embrace as we strive to rebuild a more inclusive economy and strengthen worker organizing, collective bargaining, and unions in America. As our country mourns more than 200,000 lives lost to COVID-19 and we continue to deal with the threat posed by the virus, I pray that you and your loved ones remain safe and in good health.
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Throughout our history, America has confronted big challenges, turning them into opportunities by mobilizing American talent and ingenuity. Hard-fought movements, rooted in our shared values, with labor unions at the helm, have secured critical worker protections and a path to the middle class for millions of American families. We owe it to you to ensure that you receive the benefits and protections you need––not just because labor is critical to my plan to grow a stronger, more inclusive middle class, but because we have a moral obligation to ensure you are treated fairly and with dignity.
We must confront the urgent challenges facing us today with the same talent, ingenuity, and spirit that built the middle class in the first place. That’s why as President, I will summon a new wave of worker power to rebuild America’s crumbling infrastructure, repair and modernize roads, bridges, schools, energy and water systems. I’ll guarantee Davis-Bacon prevailing wage and benefit requirements, so that workers can earn familysustaining wages––just like I did when I implemented the Recovery Act. A Biden-Harris Administration will prioritize Project Labor and Community Workforce Agreements to ensure projects use local workers and that collective bargaining agreements are in place before a project starts.
We’ll also ensure that projects employ workers trained in registered apprenticeship programs like the ones the Building Trades unions have pioneered for decades––and we won’t water them down like the Trump Administration tried to do. And critically, I’ll not only end the Trump Administration’s war on labor, but I’ll include in the economic recovery legislation I send to Congress a series of policies to encourage union organizing and collective bargaining, including the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, card check, a broad definition of “employee,” and tough enforcement to end the misclassification of workers as independent contractors. I will also go further than the PRO Act by holding company executives personally liable when they interfere with organizing efforts.
President Trump threatened to veto the PRO Act because he doesn’t understand that to build back better, we must empower workers and their unions. President Trump fails to grasp the fundamental idea of America, which gives hope to those facing desperate odds here at home and around the world, that no matter where you start in life, there’s nothing you can’t achieve if you work at it. It’s how we’ve beaten the odds and created the greatest economic engine the world has ever seen. But the ongoing assault on the rights of workers and the dignity of immigrants cripples our ability to compete in the global economy.
Immigrants are essential to the strength of our country, and a modern immigration system must allow our economy to grow while protecting the rights, wages, and working conditions of all workers, and hold employers accountable if they don’t play by the rules. We must ensure that every worker is protected, can join a union, and can exercise their labor rights–––for the safety of all workers. And, we must reform the current system of temporary work visas to enhance worker protections.
he United States of America was built on skilled labor and unions like LIUNA fighting for your pay, your safety, and your dignity. Make no mistake, a Biden-Harris Administration will have labor unions at the table to ensure that you are protected, treated, and compensated fairly. We’ll provide frontline workers like mail handlers, who play a crucial role in the delivery of essential items like medicine, medical supplies, and food, with the necessary funds to safely continue operations––not disrupt or privatize this essential lifeline for millions of American families.
And because future generations will benefit from the investments we make today, our administration will fight for workers’ retirement security by working with Congress to stabilize the multiemployer pension system and work with labor to pursue structural multiemployer pension reform. Workers need retirement security, and they deserve to have the promises their employers made to them about their pensions fulfilled.
There is a lot of work left to be done, but I am clear-eyed about what it will take to rebuild an economy that works for everyone. It means a lot to have earned your support, and I look forward to winning this fight with you by my side.
OCTOBER, 23, 2020
UPDATE ON RETROACTIVE PAY
The retroactive pay due under the terms of the 2019 -2022 National Agreement will be included in the October 30, 2020 paychecks.
There are multiple variables that determine how much any one employee will receive. The retroactive general wage increase period was November 23, 2019 through April 24, 2020.
The retroactive period for the March COLA increase was February 29, 2020 through April 24, 2020.
Retirees received retroactive pay for the hours that they were actively employed and worked from November 23, 2019 until their retirement date if their date was prior to April 24, 2020. This check was sent to their last office of record.
The amount an employee received was based on the following:
- Actual hours worked
- Step and level of pay during the retroactive pay period. For example a Level 5, Step P employee will not receive the same pay as a Level 4, Step A employee.
- Overtime hours worked
- Any shift differential worked, such as Sunday Premium, Night Differential, etc.
- Leave Hours paid
- LWOP Hours used
OCTOBER 14, 2020
NPMHU Prevails in National Arbitration Regarding MHA Discipline
We are extremely pleased to announce that the NPMHU has prevailed in its National Arbitration against the Postal Service over whether the Postal Service may consider or rely upon discipline issued to an MHA if that employee is later being disciplined after he or she has been converted to career.
The key conclusion of Arbitrator Das’ award is that “former MHAs who are converted to career positions start afresh for disciplinary purposes.” Arbitrator Das concluded that “discipline issued to an employee while employed as a noncareer Mail Handler Assistant (MHA) may not be considered or cited in determining whether to issue discipline to the employee after his or her conversion to full-time career status.”
A complete copy of the award is linked here (pdf)
OCTOBER 13, 2020
Clarification on MOU Regarding Leave Payout Upon Retirement
The MOU on Annual Leave Carryover for Leave Year 2021, which was signed on August 27, 2020, expanded the annual leave carryover limit and allows regular work force employees to carryover 520 hours of accumulated leave from leave year 2020 to leave year 2021.
The allowed annual leave carryover is normally 440 hours. The MOU also stated, that in all other respects, the ELM provisions for payment of accumulated leave are not changed. We have been able to clarify how this will affect payout for accumulated annual leave for mail handlers who are planning to retire by December 31, 2021.
If a mail handler retires prior to January 2, 2021, which is the beginning of the new leave year, the mail handler will be able to receive a payout of 440 hours of accumulated annual leave. If a mail handler retires between January 2, 2021 and December 31, 2021 and carries over 520 hours of annual leave into the 2021 Leave Year, the mail handler will be eligible for a payout of 520 accumulated annual leave hours upon retirement. If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
Please find linked here, a copy of the clarification on leave payout upon retirement with Memorandum of Understanding - Annual Leave Carryover for Leave Year 2021 (pdf)
OCTOBER 9, 2020
USPS encourages "paycheck checkup"
due to changes in tax law
Federal Income Tax Withholding (Link to USPS Bulletin)
The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act made major revisions that affected taxpayer withholding. Due to changes in the law, personal exemptions are no longer a central feature of the tax code. The Internal Revenue Service updated Form W-4, Employee’s Withholding Allowance Certificate, to reflect these changes. Employees who have submitted Form W-4 in any year before 2020 are not required to complete a new form, and USPS® will continue to compute withholding based on information from the employee’s most recently submitted Form W-4.
For employees who do submit a revised Form W-4 in 2020, withholding will be based on expected filing status and standard deduction for the year. Employees can also choose to have qualified children and other dependents, multiple jobs or spouse works, and other income and deductions reflected in their withholding.
Contributions made by employees to the following programs continue to be treated as pretax monies for federal tax computations:
Commuter Program (CPP) up to the transit/parking pretax limits.
Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP).
Health Benefits (HB):
Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB), unless the employee declined the pre-tax benefit.
USPS Health Benefits (USPS HB), only if the employee opted for pretax contributions.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
Health Savings Account (HSA).
Traditional Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Regardless of whether employees have completed a revised 2020 Form W-4, it is recommended that they visit irs.gov and complete a “paycheck checkup” using the Tax Withholding Estimator (see irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator).
OCTOBER 1, 2020
Thank you Dave for your 38 years of service to USPS, and 4 terms (12 years) with Local 303 E-Board.
2020 Election Task Force Special Edition
SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
Postal Service releases final version of the Updated Guidance on Criteria for Return to Work for Employees after an absence related to COVID-19.
SEPTEMBER 29, 2020
NPMHU Launches Grassroots Campaign Action Center
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NPMHU is excited to announce our new grassroots campaign tool on the Legislative & Political section of our website, the NPMHU Action Center. This tool will allow NPMHU Headquarters to better educate our members on legislative issues impacting Mail Handlers and the Postal Service, and provide for you and your fellow NPMHU members to directly connect with your elected officials. You will be able to effectively advocate on issues impacting the Union, encouraging elected officials to keep the Postal Service in mind when voting on legislation.
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The campaign tool will inform NPMHU members of legislative activities happening within Congress that have a direct impact on Mail Handlers. By submitting your name and address, you’ll be connected with your Representatives and Senators. From there, you can submit a prepared statement, asking your elected officials to take action in support of NPMHU, by voting in a way that will promote NPMHU, the postal workforce, and the USPS, or by sponsoring legislation that is aligned with our legislative agenda. These advocacy efforts strengthen our voice on Capitol Hill and show the power of NPMHU members.
If you have questions about grassroots campaigns and advocacy, please reach out to NPMHU Legislative & Political Director Katie Maddocks.
SEPTEMBER 29, 2020
Postal Service Delivers Service Talk
re: Missent Election Mail
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SEPTEMBER 28, 2020
LOS ANGELES NETWORK DISTRIBUTION CENTER PROTEST
SEPTEMBER 28, 2020
Postal Service Delivers Mandatory Stand-Up Talk
re: Ready to Deliver Election Mail for the Nation
According to the Postal Service, its number one priority between now and Election Day is the secure, on-time delivery of the nation’s Election Mail — and we are ready to deliver for our country.
There has been a lot of media coverage — including many reports with inaccurate information — about Election Mail. To clear up any confusion, and to ensure compliance with a recent court order requiring certain practices, management has been given operational instructions. These instructions will remain in effect until further notice.
Please find linked, a copy of the above-reference documents from the Postal Service regarding a
Mandatory Stand-Up Talk re: Ready to Deliver Election Mail for the Nation. (pdf)
SEPTEMBER 25, 2020
PMG Issues Vote By Mail Policies and Clarifying Operational Instructions
The number one priority for Postmaster General DeJoy and the Postal Service between now and Election Day is the secure and on-time delivery of the nation's election mail. Effective October 1, 2020, the Postal Service will make additional resources available in all areas of operations, including collection, processing, delivery, and transportation, to satisfy increased demand and unforeseen circumstances. These additional resources will include, as needed, additional staffing, additional transportation , and expanded mail processing windows and delivery trips, among others. Further guidance on use of additional resources will be provided separately.
To address any misinformation and clear up any confusion about the status of the Postal Service's practices concerning Overtime, Hiring, Retail Hours, Collection Boxes, Late and Extra Trips, Mail Processing, and Election Mail, these Clarifying Operational Instructions detail practices as they currently stand related to those topics.
As you may also be aware, a federal district court recently issued an order imposing certain requirements for the handling of mail. These Instructions are also intended to provide guidance to assist in carrying out the specific directives required by that order, as they relate to current operational practices.
The approach to the matters outlined in these Instructions will remain in effect until further notice and supersede any previous guidance provided on these specific topics that could be seen as conflicting with these Instructions, whether from Headquarters or the field.
SUBJECT: Clarifying Operational Instructions (pdf)
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020
USPS Updates Guidance on Criteria for Return to Work for Employees after an absence related to COVID-19
Updated Guidance on Criteria for Return to Work after an Absence Related to COVID-19, as of 8-27-2020
• CDC – When to Quarantine, 8-16-2020
• CDC – Discontinue Isolation Guidance, 8-16-2020
Please disseminate this information as you deem appropriate. Should you have any questions contact the Contract Administration Department.
Please find linked here, a copy of the above reference document from the Postal Service regarding the Criteria for Return to Work for Employees after an absence related to COVID-19. (PDF)
SEPTEMBER 22, 2020
Postal Service Elects Not To Implement Optional Wage Tax Deferral
MAIL HANDLER MAGAZINE (SUMMER 2020 EDITION)
SEPTEMBER 21, 2019
New MOU on Temporary Extensions at Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals Signed
Due to the impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the parties have agreed to extend the time limits for appealing grievances to Step 3 and to arbitration for an additional period.
This agreement is effective through December 31, 2020. Prior to the expiration of this agreement, the parties will revisit this issue to determine if an additional extension is warranted.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department or your Regional Director.
Please find linked here, a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Temporary Extension on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals (pdf)
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SEPTEMBER 18, 2020
NPMHU and USPS Agree to Extension of Various COVID Related Memoranda
1. MOU – Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID – 19
2. MOU – Temporary Additional Leave for MHAs This extension provides the Mail Handler Assistants (MHAs) the opportunity to utilize the 80 hours of paid leave provided in the original MOU, it does not provide an additional 80 hours.
3. MOU – Temporary Exception Period – COVID – 19
4. Liberal Changes of Schedule and Leave Letter dated March 23, 2020.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
Please find linked a copy of the MOU extending the following memoranda (PDF)
SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
NPMHU Endorses Joe Biden for President
SEPTEMBER 10, 2020
USPS ELECTION MAIL PRIORITY WITH PMG AND JOINT UNION LEADERSHIP
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LABOR DAY 2020
SEPTEMBER 7, 2020
LABORERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA ENDORSES JOE BIDEN FOR PRESIDENT
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After discussions with our leaders and members, the General Executive Board of the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) unanimously, enthusiastically, and proudly endorses Vice President Joe Biden and Senator Kamala Harris for President and Vice President of the United States of America. As we celebrate Labor Day 2020, and remember the strife and struggle of those who came before us, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris stand out as the blue-collar candidates.
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Vice President Biden never forgets where he came from; never forgets the value of hard work and those who do it; and never forgets that the greatest asset of our country are its working men and women. During these challenging times, our nation desperately needs the steady hand and strong, inclusive leadership that Joe Biden will provide. As we face a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, the worst economic downturn in decades, more than 30 million working Americans unemployed, and widespread social unrest, Joe will bring all Americans together to solve these problems and move forward as one united republic, with liberty and justice for all.
Joe Biden is one of us; he knows, first hand, the trials and tribulations faced by working men and women across this country. For more than 40 years, he has been a strong and steadfast workingclass warrior who knows that we can never back up, never back down, never retreat, and never surrender in the ongoing battle for labor rights, civil rights, and human rights. As both a Senator and Vice President, he has been there with us, and for us, time and time again. He is a true friend of both LIUNA and the entire Trade Union Movement, and we know that as President, he will see every issue that crosses his desk, and every decision he must make, through the eyes of working families.
Senator Kamala Harris is the proud child of decent, hard-working immigrants who, like so many of our ancestors, came to this great land to build a better life for themselves and their children. Throughout her career as an elected official in California, and as a United States Senator, she has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with working people and the unions that represent them. We know that she will make a great Vice-President, and she will help Joe advance a truly pro-labor, prounion, and pro-worker agenda.
This election is nothing less than a battle for the soul of our nation and the future of the trade union movement. As President, Joe Biden will lead our great country out of the darkness of the pandemic, rebuild and restore our economy, and pursue our highest ideals and aspirations. We can count on him to stand with us on issues of critical importance to LIUNA members and their families, including infrastructure investment, prevailing wages and collective bargaining, pension and immigration reform, protecting federal and public sector workers, strengthening the U.S. Postal Service, and a comprehensive energy policy. Over the crucial next few months, the 500,000 strong, proud, and united men and women of LIUNA will be on the front lines relentlessly working to elect Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, and making sure that our power is felt at the ballot box.
Statement of LIUNA General President Terry O’Sullivan (pdf)
SEPTEMBER 6, 2020
Watch AFL-CIO's Labor Live Event on the Postal Service
Over the Labor Day weekend, the AFL-CIO hosted a panel on the importance and value of the United States Postal Service. NPMHU Local 301 Recording Secretary Patrick Donovan participated, talking to the historic significance of the most trusted federal agency, as well as how the USPS can be put on the path to a sound financial future.
Click here to watch.
WATCH NPMHU LABOR DAY MESSAGE
SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
RSVP to AFL-CIO's Labor Live Event on the Postal Service
At 6:00 pm EST on Sunday, September 6, the AFL-CIO will host a roundtable discussion on the current state of the Postal Service, the postal labor movement, and the upcoming elections.
NPMHU Local 301 Recoding Secretary Patrick Donovan will be participating along with local representatives from NALC and APWU. Fellow NPMHU members are encouraged to tune in.
To RSVP to the event, please click here.
Labor Day is Our Day On this Labor Day, more than ever we must lay claim to the holiday and all that it stands for: recognition of the working men and women whose sacrifice, struggle and sweat has always carried us from challenge to triumph and moved our nations forward.
Through wars, recessions, depressions and pandemics, it has been workers and their unions on the frontlines, and no one has been more willing than the strong, proud and united members of LIUNA across the U.S. and Canada. LIUNA members have risked their livelihoods and even their lives for justice, honor and strength for all workers, and we continue to do so today.
It is LIUNA members and all essential workers who keep our economy afloat in these historic, turbulent times. Labor Day is a time to reflect and commemorate all that has been accomplished. It is LIUNA members who continue to build and maintain North America despite the COVID-19 crisis. It is LIUNA members in the federal and public sector, in healthcare and those in the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, who continue to go to work every day, to serve the needs of our communities, our states, our provinces and our countries.
On this day, we must also recommit ourselves to fight against the anti-union, anti-worker forces of evil that threaten both unions and the middle class. We must combat efforts to gut our pay and benefits, push back on so-called right-to-work laws and the dismantling of the Davis Bacon Act. It is also imperative that we protect the right to negotiate in the public and private sector and fight for comprehensive immigration reform.
As always, may every LIUNA member feel the power, be the power and use the power! On behalf of myself, General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni and the entire LIUNA General Executive Board, I wish you and your family a safe, meaningful and well-deserved Labor Day.
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This year, Labor Day looks a lot different for many of us. The usual activities—the parades, backyard barbecues, and gatherings with friends and families—will be muted, postponed or canceled altogether.
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But we’ve also seen the devastation caused by the incompetent and ineffectual leaders who choose to put profits over people. Right now, there’s a comprehensive COVID-19 relief bill languishing in the U.S. Senate, and working people are suffering needlessly.
The HEROES Act would provide extended unemployment insurance benefits, hazard pay, an emergency infectious disease standard to protect working people and more. Working people need real relief, and this November we will cast our ballots for politicians who will fight for America’s working people, a fair economy and a just society.
This Labor Day, let's honor the hard work of our union brothers, sisters and friends, and fight for the political candidates who will put America’s workers first.
SEPTEMBER 3, 2020
NPMHU and USPS Sign MOU Expanding Annual Leave Benefits For 2021 Leave Year
The first MOU allows for additional Annual Leave Carryover for the 2021 Leave Year. In the 2019 National Agreement, the MOU on Annual Leave Carryover allows regular work force employees to carryover 440 hours of accumulated annual leave. The new MOU on Annual Leave Carryover for Leave Year 2021 expands that limit and allows regular work force employees to carryover 520 hours of accumulated leave from leave year 2020 to leave year 2021.
The second MOU deals with the Annual Leave Exchange Option for the 2021 Leave Year. The Annual Leave Exchange Option MOU for Leave Year 2021 will allow career employees to sell back a maximum of 80 hours of annual leave prior to the beginning of the leave year provided the following criteria is met: 1) The employee must be at the maximum leave carryover ceiling (440 hours) at the start of the leave year and 2) the employee must have used fewer than 75 sick leave hours (excluding emergency sick leave taken under the Family First Coronavirus Response Act) in the 2020 leave year. Normally the maximum amount of hours that may be sold back under the 2019 National Agreement MOU on Annual Leave Exchange Option is limited to 40 hours.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
Two New Memoranda of Understanding expands annual leave benefits for the 2021 leave year (pdf)
CALIFORNIA SECRETARY OF STATE VISITS LAP&DC
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NPMHU LOCAL 303 PRESIDENT EDDIE COWAN (LIGHT BLUE SHIRT) AND OTHER LABOR LEADERS MEET WITH CALIFORNIA SECRETARY OF STATE ALEX PADILLA (SUIT JACKET)
Alex Padilla made a recent visit to LA P&DC. Meeting with NPMHU AND APWU representatives to confirm
that USPS Los Angeles is ready for the possibility of processing millions of ballots during the upcoming election.
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LOCAL 303 MEMBERS CAN REGISTER TO VOTE IN CALIFORNIA OR NEVADA VIA THE LOGO LINKS ABOVE
AUGUST 22, 2020
NPMHU Statement on the Passage of H.R. 8015, the Delivering for America Act
House Passes the Delivering for America Act (pdf)
WATCH ABC VIDEO LINK BELOW:
"California officials express outrage over recent changes with U.S. Postal Service"
AUGUST 21, 2020
AFL-CIO Urges Support for the Delivering for America Act - H.R. 8015
AUGUST 20, 2020
USPS issues Mandatory Stand-Up Talk on Face Covering and mask update
Face covering and mask update (pdf)
AUGUST 20, 2020
AUGUST 20, 2020
Sen. Coons visits USPS distribution center, discovers discarded letter-handling machinery removed during late-night shenanigans.
AUGUST 19, 2020
NPMHU Advocates for the Delivering for America Act Amid Postmaster General’s U-Turn
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The union, led by National President Paul Hogrogian (pictured above), said, “The Postal Service is enshrined in Article I of the Constitution, and was considered vital to the creation of our country. As a nation, we cannot stand by while deliberate delays are put in place that undermine the nation’s most trusted federal agency and that threaten our electoral process. During this national health crisis, every American household and business needs to be assured they can continue to rely on the Postal Service.” The Delivering for America Act would repeal operational changes DeJoy implemented in July that have resulted in the systematic delay of mail.
AUGUST 18, 2020
REPRESENTATIVE AGUILAR AT SAN BERNARDINO
The Trump Administration is attempting to undermine the USPS. I was joined today by USPS employees at the San Bernardino Mail Processing and Distribution Center to shed light on the sabotage of our mail service.
SEE NPMHU LOCAL 303 PRESIDENT EDDIE COWAN REMARKS AT THE 7:15 MARK
PMG DeJoy Issues Responsive Statement Concerning Continuation Postal Services
https://www.npmhu.org/media/news/body/PMG-statement-with-cover-MJH-08182020-signed.pdf
Attached is the full statement issued by the PMG
AUGUST 17, 2020
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AUGUST 17, 2020
NPMHU Supports H.R. 8015, the Delivering for America Act
On Saturday, August 22, members of the House of Representatives will vote on H.R. 8015, the Delivering for America Act. The bill essentially retroactively repeals operational changes Postmaster General Louis DeJoy implemented in July that have resulted in the systematic delay of mail and caused concern from the American public on the ablites of the Postal Service.
NPMHU is in full support of the legislation, stating, "The Postal Service is enshrined in Article I of the Constitution, and was considered vital to the creation of our country. As a nation, we cannot stand by while deliberate delays are put in place that undermine the nation’s most trusted federal agency and that threaten our electoral process. During this national health crisis, every American household and business needs to be assured they can continue to rely on the Postal Service."
NPMHU members can contact their Representatives through the capitol switchboard, 202-224-3121, to ask them to vote in favor of this legislation.
National Postal Mail Handlers Union Statement of Support for the Delivering for America Act (pdf)
H.R. 8015, Delivering for America Act (pdf)
AUGUST 14, 2020
Second COLA set at $188
AUGUST 14, 2020
USPS Offers Retirement Webinar to be Hosted by Aetna
Postal Service employees can participate in an upcoming webinar on preparing for retirement.
The session, “Retirement 101,” will be held Tuesday, Aug. 18, at noon EDT. Advanced registration is required.
Aetna will conduct the webinar, which will help participants understand how benefits might work nationwide and overseas. Participants can also learn about tools and resources that are available before and after retirement.
Additionally, the webinar will feature a discussion of Tricare dental insurance and include time for questions.
Participants must register before the event on the webinar website. After signing up, directions will be emailed to each registrant.
Participation is voluntary. Non-exempt employees may only participate off the clock or during authorized breaks.
The Financial Wellness LiteBlue page also has retirement planning information.
AUGUST 11, 2020
Fall 2020 SAMLU Meeting Will Be in a Virtual Setting
August 11, 2020 Memorandum to Local Presidents (pdf)
RE: Fall 2020 SAMLU Meeting Will Be Virtual
The schedule for the National Postal Mail Handler Union’s second SAMLU of 2020 is being modified. The SAMLU will now occur on November 18-19, 2020 in a virtual setting via the meeting platform ZOOM®. The hotel is unable to host our event in view of limitations imposed by local health officials given rise by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Our utmost concern is the safety, health, and wellbeing of SAMLU attendees, guests and staff. All reservations will be automatically cancelled, and deposits will be automatically refunded to the credit card used at the time of reservation; you do not have to contact the hotel.
We will be sharing additional details about the virtual SAMLU in the coming weeks.
AUGUST 7, 2020
PMG DeJoy and Chief HR Officer Cronkhite Issue Memorandum Detailing New Organizational Structure
AUGUST 7, 2020
Congress urges Postal Service to undo changes slowing mail
WASHINGTON (AP) — Lawmakers from both parties are calling on the U.S. Postal Service to immediately reverse operational changes that are causing delays in deliveries across the country just as big volume increases are expected for mail-in election voting.
Click here to read more.
AUGUST 6, 2020
Retroactive Payments Tentatively Scheduled for October 30, 2020
August 6, 2020 - The Postal Service has informed the union that it tentatively expects to make retroactive payment on contractual salary increases resulting from ratification of the 2019 National Agreement in Pay Period 22, appearing in checks dated October 30, 2020. The contract was ratified by the NPMHU membership on April 7, 2020. We share this information with the understanding that this payment date is tentative, and subject to further delay. We will share additional information as warranted.
JULY 30, 2020
USPS Issues Statement Regarding Terms of the Loan Agreement Between the Postal Service and the Department of Treasury
JULY 30, 2020
LOCAL 303 INFORMATIONAL UPDATE #4
Since masks are required throughout Southern California I have run into a new term, "mask stake." I have walked by mail handlers that I know very well and did not recognize them. The National Mail Handlers Magazine displays photos of mail handlers from around the country with their mask on.
I would like to test the skill of Local 303 mail handlers in recognizing their Union brothers and sisters by asking you to look at the back of the most recent Mail Handlers Magazine and see if you can identify any 303 members. If you think you are good and can recognize any, send me their name via email to (local303prez@att.net).
The topic of masks has generated countless calls to the Local, some for wearing masks and others against it. The Unions, the Postal Service, and State Government all have requirements for wearing masks. Local 303 Executive Board agrees with the wearing of masks unless you have a medical reason that would prevent you from wearing one.
Recently we the delegates to the 20/21 National Convention executed part of our constitutional requirement as delegates via Zoom video communication. We nominated mail handlers for all of the National positions. The following positions went unchallenged and therefore the incumbents were duly reelected: National President Paul Hogrogian, National Secretary-Treasurer Mike Hora, Central Region VP June Harris, North East Region VP David Wilkins, and Southern Region VP Lawrence Sapp. As a result of the National nominations process there will be a mail ballot election for Western Region VP position between Juan Torres (Local 303), and incumbent Don Sneesby (Local 316). For the Eastern Region VP there will be a runoff between Felandria Jackson (Local 305) and incumbent John Gibson (Local 308).
There is a National election taking place on November 3, 2020 for the President of the United States of America. I hope you all will do your very important civic duty and participate. Take your family and friends with you. This election has consequences that will affect the Postal Service and whether or not we as essential workers receive Hazardous pay. I get calls regularly from mail handlers that want to know why we are not getting it. The House of Representatives passed the HEROES Act (HR 6800), a bill that would provide an additional $13.00 and hour for all postal employees.
The current President would veto the bill if it gets to his desk. To all the mail handlers that have complaints about not receiving hazardous pay, I say vote early. We all have different reasons why we vote and who we vote for, but my number one criterion is asking what will they as elected officials do to better the future of my employment with the United States Postal Service.
All career mail handlers are eligible for work clothes allowances. There are two different programs, one for all of us, and the other provides an allowance if you perform duties where the public may see you. One job that would allow mail handlers to receive the higher amount is mail handlers going out to pick up collections from the Blue mail boxes on the streets around postal facilities.
If you haven't gotten your work clothes allowance have your SDO/MDO log onto the Blue Page and get it done. As a Regular Mail Handler don't let them get away with telling you that they are not sure how to do it. I'm sure you would agree they would not let you get away with not doing your job because you said you are not sure how to do it. I know some of you do not use the work clothes allowance, but you can use it to order some tee shirts or the hoodie and donate those items to the Local. I will give the donated items to the MHAs who do not receive the work clothes allowance.
Eddie Cowan
Local President
| NPMHU LOCAL 303 INFO UPDATE #4 7/30/2020 |
A LOCAL 303 SNIPPET
JULY 29, 2020
USPS and Department of Treasury Come to Terms on Loan
In response to the financial losses the Postal Service faces due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act (P.L. 116-136) included language to provide USPS with a $10 billion loan from the Department of Treasury in order to survive the fiscal year. However, the law requires the Secretary of Treasury and the Board of Governors to come to agreement on the terms and conditions of the loan.
On Wednesday, July 29, 2020, Postmaster General Louis DeJoy announced that an agreement had been reached, granting USPS access to the funds. In a press release, PMG DeJoy commented, "Access to an additional $10 billion in borrowing authority will delay the approaching liquidity crisis.
The Postal Service, however, remains on an unsustainable path and we will continue to focus on improving operational efficiency and pursuing other reforms in order to put the Postal Service on a trajectory for long-term financial stability.”
It should be noted, however,that details of the terms of agreement have not been made public. The loan announcement comes on the heels of the implementation of a pilot program that is creating intentional delivery delays, and the NPMHU is concerned that the terms will include significant and permanent operational changes that would impact the membership.
Stay tuned for more details
USPS Press Release on Treasury Loan (pdf)
JULY 27, 2020
Postal Service delivers Mandatory Stand-Up re: Talk Hold Mail service reminders
According to the Postal Service, the Hold Mail process is a courtesy service designated for customers who plan on being away from their homes or business for up to 30 days. Mail for closed businesses is normally held for 10 days to allow customers to claim their mail at the local Post Office. Products such as Priority Mail Express and Certified Mail have slightly different hold periods due to the nature of the products.
Mail still held after the established time period will be returned to sender as unclaimed.
During these unprecedented times with COVID-19, many parts of the nation are experiencing varying degrees of state and local restrictions on which businesses may open or remain open. These restrictions are generally decisions beyond the customer’s control.
If these restrictions are applicable in your area or resume in your area, please encourage your Hold Mail customers to contact their local Post Office and make arrangements to collect their mail, or they should arrange to restart regular delivery of their mail, including mail still being held. Local Postmasters have the discretion to extend the Hold Mail time frame based on local circumstances.
Please find linked a copy of the below captioned document from the Postal Service regarding its Hold Mail Service. (pdf)
JULY 23, 2020
| NPMHU PRESIDENT MESSAGE 7/23/20 |
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JULY 19, 2020
LOCAL 303 INFORMATIONAL UPDATE
Once again, the Union and Management at the National and Headquarters level understand the gravity of what we as essential employees are going through. They extended all the MOUs until September 25, 2020 this may look like a small gesture, It's not.
The COVID-19 Liberal Leave MOU is as important to the mail handlers as FMLA was in 1993 when President Clinton signed it into law. As mail handlers continue to move the mail "Liberal Leave" prevents you from getting a red mark or unscheduled leave hit for absence related to COVID-19.
As with FMLA, management has a different interpretation than the Union. My understanding is as simple as, if you call in because of high blood pressure this is a regular unscheduled absence. A mail handler that has a stressful night thinking about working around others that may have Coronavirus and their blood pressure goes up, should follow the COVID-19 Liberal Leave MOU. Then contact their supervisor to inform them of the leave request covered under the MOU.
If you were a union steward back in the early to mid 90s after FMLA was implemented, you would recall filing countless grievances to protect the mail handlers who follow the rules, this will be the same. Any management attempt to issue discipline regarding attendance is to change it to following instructions. The real creative ones will state that the mail handler needs documentation. Neither of these tactics will work if we do our jobs as union stewards and the mail handler follows the MOU.
The MOU for MHAs to get 80 hours of paid sick leave has another set of management claims that are not true. You are an essential employee congress has not truly looked out for, but the 80 hours of paid sick leave is a small thank you.
We all see that more employees are testing positive for Coronavirus so I will quickly try to explain a bad rule that management is following. The topic is how and who gets administrative pay. If a mail handler is contacted by the Occupational Health Nurse and told they were identified as a person that had close contact with an employee that tested positive, they would be paid 2 weeks of admin leave. If that person were to go out and get a Coronavirus test and it showed positive before the 2 weeks were up they would no longer get the administrative pay.
The school system in most areas are shut down and will cause a problem for a lot of parents. The Liberal Leave and the Family First Act both protect you. Please inform management that your attendance issue is for school or COVID-19 related child care reasons. Make sure you write that on your PS3971. If management generates a PS3971 for you, write in the "other" section of the PS3971"COVID-19 related Child Care" for the reason of your absence.
| LOCAL 303 INFO UPDATE 7/19/20 |
JULY 18, 2020
NPMHU is Deeply Saddened by the Passing of John Lewis
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National President Paul Hogrogian, National Secretary-Treasurer Michael Hora, and the entire National Executive Board are saddened to note the passing of John Lewis, a civil rights legend, who for the past three decades has served as the representative of Georgia’s 5th Congressional District.
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Working with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and other leaders of his day, Lewis showed the tenacity and the courage necessary to help forge the moral and political support needed to get the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act through a previously recalcitrant legislative branch. He was a Freedom Rider in the early 1960s, a keynote speaker at the historic 1963 March on Washington, and is most frequently remembered for his role in the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama in 1965, when he helped spur enactment of the Voting Rights Act, notwithstanding the teargas that was released on the marchers and the billy clubs that fractured his scull.
As former President Barack Obama said earlier today, John Lewis “loved this country so much that he risked his life and his blood so that it might live up to its promise. And through the decades, he not only gave all of himself to the cause of freedom and justice, but inspired generations that followed to try to live up to his example."
May John Lewis rest in peace, so that others can continue the “good trouble” needed for continued progress towards justice and the American ideal.
JULY 16, 2020
MOU on Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals Renewed
Please find linked above, a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Temporary Extension on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals. Due to the impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the parties have agreed to extend the time limits for appealing grievances to Step 3 and to arbitration for an additional period.
This agreement is effective through September 25, 2020. Prior to the expiration of this agreement, the parties will revisit this issue to determine if an additional extension is warranted. If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department or your Regional Director.
Re: MOU on Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals (pdf)
JULY 13, 2020
NPMHU and USPS Reach Agreement on Extension of Various COVID Related Memoranda
Please find attached a copy of the MOU extending the following memoranda:
MOU – Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID – 19
MOU – Temporary Additional Leave for MHAs This extension provides the Mail Handler Assistants (MHAs) the opportunity to utilize the 80 hours of paid leave provided in the original MOU, it does not provide an additional 80 hours.
MOU – Temporary Exception Period – COVID – 19
Liberal Changes of Schedule and Leave Letter dated March 23, 2020.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
Extension of Various COVID Related Memoranda (pdf)
JULY 9, 2020
COVID-19 Test Kits in the Mail
Please find linked above, a copy of the above reference document from the Postal Service regarding COVID-19 test kits in the mail. According to the Postal Service, they have partnered with several manufacturers, vendors, and laboratories to ship virus and vaccine test kits to a variety of healthcare providers and citizens across the country.
| COVID-19 TEST KITS STANDUP TALK |
JULY 5, 2020
| LOCAL303COVID-19 UPDATE #10 |
JULY 2, 2020
Senate Legislation Calls for Postal Support
JUNE 28, 2020
| LOCAL 303 INFO UPDATE 6/28/2020 |
JUNE 26, 2020
Message from President Paul Hogrogian (pdf)
JUNE 25, 2020
Postal Service releases updated CDC posters relating to Social Distancing and Face Coverings
JUNE 17, 2020
NPMHU Files National Level Grievance Over Implementation of MHA Health Insurance
The 2019 National Agreement contains significant changes in the options for health insurance available to Mail Handler Assistants. As previously discussed during prior conferences, however, the NPMHU finds itself in an ongoing dispute with USPS Headquarters about the timing and implementation of these changes. (The parties continue to discuss these matters, and hope to resolve their disputes, but in the meantime the NPMHU is filing National-level protective grievance in case a resolution is not reached.)
See the June 17, 2020 memoraudum for additional details (pdf)
JUNE 15, 2020
MOU on Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals (pdf)
Due to the impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the parties have agreed to extend the time limits for appealing grievances to Step 3 and to arbitration for an additional period. This agreement is effective through July 17, 2020. Prior to the expiration of this agreement, the parties will revisit this issue to determine if an additional extension is warranted.
JUNE 5, 2020
NPMHU 2020 Convention Postponed
In view of the coronavirus pandemic and in concert with state and federal social distancing and COVID-19 abatement recommendations, the National Executive Board has decided to postpone the NPMHU 2020 Convention, previously scheduled for Denver, CO from August 11 to August 16, 2020. The health and wellbeing of our delegates, guests, and staff is our paramount consideration.
The NPMHU 2020 Convention has been rescheduled and will now begin on Monday, March 29, 2021, at the same location in Denver, CO. The program will last four days, concluding on Thursday, April 1, 2021. Additional details will be provided directly to each delegate during the coming weeks, as the schedule of events is developed.
JUNE 2, 2020
NPMHU Supports LIUNA Statement on the Killing of George Floyd
LIUNA Will Never Back up, Never Back Down in the Fight for Racial, Social, and Economic Justice
JUNE 2, 2020
USPS Delivers Mandatory Stand Up Talk on Essential Services
during COVID-19 and Recent State and Local Civil Unrest
Please find linked below, a copy of the Contract Administration Memorandum Regarding Essential Services during COVID-19 and Recent State and Local Civil Unrest.
The Postal Service is continuing normal operations while state and local governments deal with the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) situation and the recent civil unrest in number our communities throughout the United States.
Our customers are depending on us, and we are taking unprecedented precautions to stay safe and
to continue to deliver for our country.
June 1, 2020 Memorandum to Local Presidents (pdf)
JUNE 2, 2020
USPS reissues Essential Service Provider Letter to all Employees and Contractors
Please find linked below, a copy of the the Contract Administration Department Memorandum and Postal Service regarding the Essential Service Provider letter to all employees and contractors.
Essential Service Provider Letter (pdf)
JUNE 1, 2020
NPMHU and USPS Release Q&A Document
Affirming the Parties’ Mutual Understandings and Interpretations
With the ratification of the 2019 – 2022 National Agreement, the parties agreed to jointly develop and implement a Question and Answer document addressing and affirming the parties’ mutual understanding and interpretation of many of the new provisions contained in the agreement.
While the Q&A document does not address every matter, the interpretations contained in the Q&A should be self explanatory and this document may be updated if agreement is reached on additional items by the parties. Moreover, the Q&A is not intended to “add to, modify, or replace, in any respect” the language in the National Agreement.
The Questions and Answers are binding on all representatives in the resolution of disputes at the Local and Area/Regional levels and in all phases of the grievance process up to arbitration. As part of our recurring obligation to update the Contract Interpretation Manual, the Questions and Answers will be included in the next revision of our CIM (Version 5) which is now in development.
Please feel free to circulate the attached Questions and Answers as you deem appropriate, and please do not hesitate to contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
2019–2022 National Agreement Questions and Answers (PDF)
MAY 31, 2020
| NPMHU LOCAL 303 COVID-19 UPDATE #9 (MAY 31, 2020) |
MAY 28, 2020
NPMHU President Hogrogian Speaks to Press on Future of USPS
As all NPMHU members are aware, the Postal Service is a vital resource to every American household and this is especially seen now during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic, however, has created significant finanical stress to the USPS as well as health risks for its employees.
To ensure the problems the Postal Service faces remains in the public eye, NPMHU President Hogrogian and NoVA P&DC Branch President/Local 305 Recording Secretary Dwight Burnside, along with leadership from the AFL-CIO and other postal unions leaders, spoke to reporters on how congressional action is necessary for the Postal Service's sustainablity through the end of the fiscal year and what is currenlty being done to protect postal employees on the job.
In a resulting article from Gov Exec, it was noted while members of the House of Representatives have shown past support for the Postal Service in stimulus legislation, the Trump Administration has disapproved of any assistance for the most popular federal agency. “While past administrations have been indifferent to the Postal Service,” said [NPMHU President] Hogrogian, “this administration has been outright hostile.”
Roll Call reported on President Hogrogian's comments on the existance of the Postal Service hinges upon receiveing finanical relief in the next round of stimulus. USPS is not only facing operational jeopardy, but leadership has also had to react to the health risks COVID-19 has created for employees. To this point, Branch President Burnside commented, "management is making genuine efforts to provide safe working conditions."
Pressure for USPS Funding Ramps Up as Budget Outlook Worsens, Gov Exec
Out of Money by Early Fall': Postal Unions Press for Pandemic Relief, Roll Call
MAY 22, 2020
DO NOT OPEN- Beware of unofficial insurance solicitations
USPS employees recently began receiving emails from Premier Protection Insurance that offer several alternative FEGLI plans.
The plans aren’t associated with the Postal Service and aren’t supported by the Office of Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance, the organization that processes and pays claims under FEGLI.
Open season, which begins each November, is the once-a-year opportunity for federal employees to make changes to their health coverage or choose a new plan. Official announcements regarding open season appear on official USPS letterhead.
Additionally, the organization communicates about open season through articles in Link, postings on the Wellness Blue and LiteBlue pages, and direct mailings to employees’ homes.
The Postal Service recently introduced an email notification feature that alerts employees to messages from external sources and reminds them to use caution before opening, clicking links or viewing attachments. If you’re a USPS employee and you receive a benefits-related solicitation and are concerned about its validity, email the Wellness team at healthandwellness@usps.gov.
Report suspicious emails using the Report to CyberSafe button in the Outlook toolbar. You can also send the email as an attachment to CyberSafe@usps.gov by selecting the suspicious message and clicking the Ctrl, Alt and F keys simultaneously.
The Postal Service wants employees to use caution when reviewing promotions for Federal Employee Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) alternatives.
MAY 22, 2020
NPMHU and USPS Agree to Extension of Various COVID Related Memorand
Please find linked, a copy of the MOUs that are being extended through July 17, 2020.
The following are the memoranda being extended:
1. MOU – Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID – 19
2. MOU – Temporary Additional Leave for MHAs This extension provides the Mail Handler Assistants (MHAs) the opportunity to utilize the 80 hours of paid leave provided in the original MOU, it does not provide an additional 80 hours.
3. MOU – Temporary Exception Period – COVID – 19 The Liberal Changes of Schedule & Leave letter dated March 23 2020 has also been extended through July 17, 2020. If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
Re: Extension of Various COVID Related Memoranda (pdf)
MAY 22, 2020
Dear Brothers and Sisters, For many of us this Memorial Day weekend will be unlike any other in our lifetime, as our nation struggles with the health, economic, and social impacts of COVID-19. This weekend, many of us will spend time with family and enjoy a day off that marks the transition to summer. But while we have a holiday, tens of thousands of brave men and women in the Armed Services – including many LIUNA members – will have no respite. They and their families accept daily hardships and dangers in order to protect our democracy and freedom.
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We owe these patriotic men and women, some of whom made the ultimate sacrifice, losing their lives in defense of our nation, a debt of gratitude. This weekend, take a moment to reflect and honor all those who have served. As we do so, let us also continue to build a stronger LIUNA and country, so that returning veterans have opportunities to prosper when their service has ended.
On behalf of myself, LIUNA General Secretary-Treasurer Armand E. Sabitoni, and the entire General Executive Board, I wish each and every one of you an enjoyable and meaningful Memorial Day.
MAY 19, 2020
USPS and the NPMHU Agree to Extend Several COVID-19 Related Memoranda
The following are the memoranda and letter being extended:
1. MOU – Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID – 19
2. MOU – Temporary Additional Leave for MHAs This extension provides the Mail Handler Assistants (MHAs) the opportunity to utilize the 80 hours of paid leave provided in the original MOU, it does not provide an additional 80 hours.
3. MOU – Temporary Exception Period – COVID – 19
4. Liberal Changes of Schedule and Leave Letter dated March 23, 2020.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
Please find linked below, the mutual agreement between the USPS and the NPMHU to extend the below listed memoranda and their provisions through July 17, 2020. (pdf)
MAY 18, 2020
Unions Show Support for USPS
Letter on support for the Postal Service (pdf)
To contact your Senators, letting them you know you support the Postal Service and the HEROES Act, please call 866-832-1560, or visit: https://actionnetwork.org/forms/heroesact?source=aflcio.
MAY 15, 2020
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MAY 15, 2020
NPMHU and USPS Sign MOU on Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals
Due to the impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the parties have agreed to extend the time limits for appealing grievances to Step 3 and to arbitration for an additional 30 days.
This agreement is effective through June 17, 2020. Prior to the expiration of this 30-day period, the parties will revisit this issue to determine if an additional extension is warranted.
MOU on Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals (pdf)
MAY 14, 2020
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Thrift Savings Plan News and Announcements Relative to COVID-19 Pandemic
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Withdrawals for Participants Affected by COVID-19
(May 12, 2020) The CARES Act creates special rules for most types of TSP withdrawals made by participants affected by COVID-19. We’re working on a new, temporary withdrawal option that waives the usual in-service withdrawal requirements and allows all COVID-affected participants to waive tax withholding. We will provide details about that soon. But many TSP participants who are affected by COVID-19 can take advantage of the withdrawal provisions of the CARES ACT using withdrawal types for which they’re already eligible.
If you’re a current civilian federal employee or member of the uniformed services and eligible under the existing rules, such withdrawals include hardship withdrawals and age-based in-service “59½” withdrawals. If you’re separated from federal service or a beneficiary participant, they include single payments and some installment payments. This article explains the favorable tax treatment that you may be eligible for right now without waiting for the new withdrawal option to be available.
Update on CARES Act temporary loan and withdrawal options
(May 6, 2020) The CARES Act allows us to offer temporary loan and withdrawal options to TSP participants affected by COVID-19. We are working as quickly as possible to add these options to our system so you can count on efficient processing of these requests. You can check this webpage for updates about these options and when they will be available to you. We will post the next update by May 15, 2020.
MAY 13, 2020
HEROES Act Provides Relief for Postal Employees
As many Americans are still impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and members of Congress realized previous COVID related legislation was not as impactful as was intended, the House of Representatives introduced the Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions (HEROES) Act (H.R. 6800) on Tuesday, May 12.
Previous COVID-19 bills did not include assistance to the Postal Service, despite the USPS’ warnings of revenue loss due to the pandemic and the health risks employees take while on the job. The HEROES Act moves to provide some financial aid and hazard pay in order to get the Postal Service through this crisis.
Explicitly, the bill provides for $25 billion to make up for lost revenue, with priority given to the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE). Additionally, the bill removes certain borrowing restrictions imposed on the Postal Service from the Department of Treasury.
Directly impacting NPMHU members, the HEROES Act would grant pandemic premium pay for all postal employees. Acknowledging that these men and women, as essential workers are placing themselves and their families at a greater risk of contracting the coronavirus, the bill calls for an additional $13.00 an hour for time worked from January 27, 2020 until 60 days after the pandemic ends. While nothing can fully make up for the physical and mental stress employees are facing, the NPMHU hopes this assistance will provide some ease to members.
The House will vote on the bill this Friday, May 15. Once passed, it will move to the Senate for approval. As the NPMHU has seen minimum support for the Postal Service from Senators, the Union needs to ensure that Senators understand the vital importance of the Postal Service and its impact on every American household. If you have not yet done so, please contact your Senators, letting them know you support the Postal Service, and financial relief for it needs to remain in the HEROES Act. Senators can be reached directly through the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121.
MAY 13, 2020
MAY 13, 2020
Local 303 President Eddie Cowan (L), Northern CA. Local 302 President Anthony Coleman (C), and Local 303 Treasurer Van Cunningham (R) informally meet to discuss changes and possible new Arbitrator selections.
MAY 13, 2020
USPS delivers Mandatory Stand-Up Talk
Proof of Concept Temperature Test to be Conducted in Two Postal Districts
According to the Postal Service, While the acceptance, processing and delivery of the nation’s mail and packages has continued through the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Postal Service is preparing for the possibility of establishing some new work procedures while the pandemic persists.
This includes evaluating potential new processes and procedures to continue protecting your health and safetyand that of our customers. Proof of concept tests will begin this month in Northern Virginia and in Oklahoma City and will run for two weeks.
The Northern Virginia proof of concept test will begin May 18 at the Merrifield P&DC, the Falls Church Carrier Annex, and the Fairfax Main Post Office. The Oklahoma City proof of concept test will begin May 25 at the Oklahoma City P&DC. Having your temperature taken as part of these proof of concept tests will be voluntary. Data from the proof of concept tests will be used to evaluate the temperature-taking system and to determine the feasibility of expanding the use of these employee temperature taking processes to other Postal Facilities.
To protect employees’ privacy, no health data will be collected or maintained during the proof of concept tests. If an employee has a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher during the proof of concept test, that NAME OR ORGANIZATION person will be informed about the temperature reading in private and will be sent home for their own and others’ safety. If an employee is sent home, they will be provided either existing Employee Paid Sick Leave (EPSL) under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCR Act) or administrative leave.
Please find linked below, a copy of the above-referenced document from the Postal Service regarding a mandatoryStand-up Talk concerning Proof of Concept Temperature Test to be Conducted in Two Postal Districts. (pdf)
MAY 11, 2020
| LOCAL 303 COVID-19 UPDATE #8 5/11/20 |
MAY 11, 2020
2020 Convention Update in View of COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic
May 11, 2020 Memorandum to Local Presidents (pdf)
MAY 8, 2020
NPMHU LAUNCHES CONVENTION WEBSITE (Click photo below)
MAY 7, 2020
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President Hogrogian's Message to the Membership
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MAY 7, 2020
USPS Board of Governors Selects Louis DeJoy to Serve as New Postmaster General
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Late last night, the USPS Board of Governors announced
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MAY 7, 2020
Postal Service Updates Guidance on Criteria for Return to Work
for Employees with Confirmed case of COVID-19
Please find enclosed a copy of the above reference document from the Postal Service regarding the Criteria for Return to Work for Employees with Confirmed case of COVID-19. •
Updated Guidance, as of 5-6-2020 (PDF)
MAY 6, 2020
The NPMHU Announces the Passing of Local 308 Mail Handler David Smithlin
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MAY 6, 2020
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LiUNA letter to congressional leadership (pdf)
MAY 6, 2020
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Be Counted!
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MAY 6, 2020
Postal Service revises Criteria for Return to Work for Employees with Confirmed case of COVID-19
Please find linked, a copy of the above-reference, and recently, received document from the Postal Service
regarding the Criteria for Return to Work for Employees with Confirmed case of COVID-19. (PDF)
MAY 5, 2020
NPMHU and USPS Sign MOU Extending Periods for Unlimited MHAs
Memorandum and Signed MOU (pdf)
MAY 5, 2020
Local 300 Mail Handler Nadir Tiliouine Taken by Coronavirus
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MAY 5, 2020
The NPMHU Announces the Passing of Retired Local 301 Mail Handler Roy DePalma
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MAY 4, 2020
USPS Releases EAP Information – Behavioral Health During a Pandemic / Public Health Emergency
(PDF) Please find linked a copy of the above-reference document from the Postal Service regarding:
MAY 3, 2020
| LOCAL 303 COVID -19 UPDATE#7 5/3/20 |
MAY 1, 2020
National Poll Shows Support for Funding for USPS
As the Postal Service faces the threat of running out of cash on hand by the end of the fiscal year, the American pubic has shown overwhelming support for the institution.
In a poll conducted by Hart Research Associates and North Star Opinion Research, over 94 percent of those surveyed found USPS to provide vital services, and 92 percent supported federal appropriations for the Postal Service in order to maintain operations through the COVID-19 pandemic.
This support was seen by those associated with the Democrat and Republican parties, as well as indepents, and saw no significant differnce in support among race or geographical location. Postmaster General Megan Brennan reported to the House Oversight & Reform Committee the COVID-19 pandemic is the cause of $13 billion in revenue losses, and the Postal Service can expect an additional $54.3 billion in losses over the next decade.
If the Postal Service does not recieve finanial assistance in the form of appropriations in the next stimulus package, it is unclear if it will be able to meet its service demands.
APR 29, 2020
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April 29, 2020 Message from NPMHU President Paul Hogrogian (pdf)
APR 28, 2020
Bipartisan Group of Representatives Call for USPS Funding
A bipartisan group of Representatives from the New York delegation issued a letter on April 28 to House and Senate leadership, brining attention to the finaical losses the Postal Service faces due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The letter, led by Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY-12) and Congressman Peter King (R-NY-02), urged leadship to consider, "The coronavirus crisis is wreaking havoc on the U.S. Postal Service. Without immediate help, the Postal Service — a vital staple of American society since 1775 — could cease to function by this summer.
This crisis is also affecting the State of New York more than any other. There were 287 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 14 deaths among postal workers in New York as of April 20, 2020... This is a national emergency." New York Representatives Call for USPS Funding (pdf)
APR 27, 2020
Calls to Save the Postal Service Come From all Walks of Life
Telegraph Herald: Postal Service collapse could devastate seniors, small businesses and rural areas BY Bryan Lowry Tribune News Service
The Atlantic: Save the Postal Service Trump’s personal hostility has merged with long-standing conservative antipathy to endanger a vital civic institution. BY Philip F. Rubio, Professor of history at North Carolina A&T State University
Newsday: Time to deliver for the Postal Service By The Editorial Board
The Times and Democrat: COMMENTARY: Save the Postal Service BY Jaime Harrison, a Democratic candidate for the United States Senate
APR 27, 2020
Tell Congress: During This Pandemic, Support Our Public Postal Service
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President Trump has been on the attack of the United States Postal Service since the release of the Postal Task Force Report in December 2018. The report called for limiting service obligations; changing delivery frequency; shutting facilities; move towards privatization; and, limiting the collecting bargaining rights of its employees.
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The Postal Service is repeatedly rated by Americans as the most trustworthy federal agency; one of the largest employers of our nation’s veterans; and, the backbone of a $1.6 trillion mailing industry. In these uncertain times, the Administration should not be holding the Postal Service hostage.
NPMHU members and their families are rightfully concerned about their safety, health and wellbeing. As essential workers, postal employees shouldn’t be faced with attacks on our jobs. We urge you to reach out to your Representatives and Senators, demanding they support the Postal Service and its employees.
NPMHU LOCAL 301 REPRESENTATIVE PATRICK DONOVAN AND APWU LOCAL 458 REPRESENTATIVE SCOTT ADAMS
Sara Gideon is an American politician from the state of Maine and the current Speaker of the Maine House of Representatives. A Democrat from Freeport, she represents District 48 in the Maine House of Representatives, which encompasses part of Freeport and Pownal in Cumberland County.
APR 27, 2020
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Send a Letter To Your Senators
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Starting on Monday, April 27, 2020 thousands of Americans are sending letters through the mail to tell their Senators to fully fund the United States Postal Service. Please sign up now and join our campaign.
WHY THIS CAMPAIGN MATTERS
The outpouring of support for our petition to save the Postal Service showed that public support is with us. Now, by sending a letter to Congress on Monday, April 27th, we can send a clear message to Congress and the White House that bankrupting the United States Postal Service is NOT an option.
Congress and the White House must fully fund the United States Postal Service in the next stimulus bill. The Postal Service delivers life-saving medications and food, enables voting by mail, supports other services necessary for our nation to operate during the COVID-19 crisis, and is obligated to serve all Americans regardless of where they live, rural and urban alike.
APR 26, 2020
| LOCAL 303 COVID-19 UPDATE #6 4/26/20 |
APR 25, 2020
Postal Service issues Memorandum on reusable Face Covering for employees
Please find linked here, a copy of the above-reference document from the Postal Service regarding Memorandum onreusable Face Covering for employees. (pdf)
See April 24, 2020 memorandum
APR 24, 2020
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Safe Jobs. Save Lives.
On April 28, we will mark Workers Memorial Day in the U.S. and the National Day of Mourning in Canada to honor those killed, maimed or sickened on the job. Days later we commemorate the May Day heroes who died for workers rights 134 years ago. Perhaps never in our lifetimes have these events been so relevant to the core mission of our union, to our families and to our nations. While we grieve for those lost, injured or sickened, uncertain of the extent of the work-related toll of the coronavirus or its disastrous economic impact on working men and women, we must also act.
We must enforce the fundamental right to protect ourselves on every jobsite and in every workplace. We must fight to ensure that our nations fulfill the moral obligation we have to care for each other so no one must risk their lives, their families’ lives or the lives of those in our communities in order to put food on the table. In the spirit of the May Day heroes, let us never forget that when it comes to the well-being of LIUNA members and of all working people, there is no movement too radical and there is no action too militant. The price of going to work must never be death, injury or critical illness.
While current times seem uncertain, this we do know without doubt: the strength of LIUNA has always been and continues to be the best protection against jobsite and workplace dangers and the power of our unity is the best weapon in the fight against the virus of greed.
I urge each and every one of us to honor those who built our great union and our brothers and sisters who continue to build LIUNA today by rededicating ourselves to the struggle for safer jobs, for workers’ rights, civil rights and for human rights.
APR 22, 2020
NPMHU and USPS Enter Memorandum of Understanding
on the Exception for MOU Transfers – COVID 19 Related Absences
Please find linked above, a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Exception
for MOU Transfers – COVID 19 Related Absences.
Due to the COVID 19 Pandemic, the parties have agreed that beginning on February 29, 2020, COVID 19 related absences will not be considered when reviewing the attendance record of employees requesting reassignment under the Transfer MOU.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department.
Re: Exception for MOU Transfers – COVID 19 Related Absences (pdf)
APR 22, 2020
Postal Service releases updated COVID-19 Decision Tree
APR 21, 2020
President Hogrogian to Speak at Virtual Town Hall With Senator Bernie Sanders
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In response to growing concern on the future of the Postal Service, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) will host a virtual town hall on Tuesday, April 21, featuring NPMHU President Paul Hogrogian, along with APWU President Mark Dimondstein and NALC President Fred Rolando.
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To watch the livestream, beginning at 7:00 pm EST, please visit: live.berniesanders.com
APR 21, 2020
Cloth Face Coverings or Masks Now Mandatory in Support of Local or State Directives
According to the Postal Service, Cloth face coverings or masks are mandatory in support of local or state face covering directives or orders. In addition, face coverings and masks are mandatory in all facilities where social distancing cannot be maintained.
Throughout the ongoing Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, the Postal Service has continued to fulfill its critical mission to bind the nation together. Postal Service employees are working hard across the country to ensure we are there for our customers every day, serving as a lifeline for millions of people.
Employee safety and wellness are of primary importance to the Postal Service.
Please find linked, a copy of the above-reference document from the Postal Service regarding a Mandatory
Stand-Up Talk to employees concerning: Cloth Face Coverings and mask. (pdf)
APR 20, 2020
USPS releases Close COVID-19 Contact Investigations Overview
outlining step taken when an employee reports a positive case
When an employee reports a positive case, the OHNA contacts the local or state health department to determine if they will conduct the workplace close contact investigation of positive COVID-19 cases. Because this infection is a reportable case, it is their legal jurisdiction and responsibility to conduct these investigations.
See the April 20, 2020 memorandum to see typical steps most health departments take when conducting the close contact investigations. (pdf)
APR 19, 2020
| LOCAL 303 COVID-19 UPDATE #5 (4/19/20) |
APR 16, 2020
Call to Action: Urge Congress to Save the Postal Service
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USPS is facing drastic negative financial consequences due to COVID-19. The Postal Service facing decreases in revenue, and the Postmaster General reported to members of Congress USPS will run out of cash on hand by the end of the fiscal year due to projected losses of $13 billion due to COVID-19, as well as $54.3 billion in additional losses over the next decade. Adding to the stress of the situation, mail handlers and their fellow postal employees are on the front lines as essential employees. While this dedication should be revered, they deserve to be assured that the Postal Service is on a sustainable path forward and will not become another victim of the pandemic.
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Members of Congress are currently working on language for the next stimulus package, and it is important that they understand what is at stake for the Postal Services, its employees, and its customers.
Without sufficient financial assistance from Congress, the Postal Service, which is the heart of the $1.6 trillion mailing industry and employs over 600,000 men and women, will fail.
NPMHU is talking with our postal champions and friends on Capitol Hill on the need for stimulus funding, but it is necessary that Representatives and Senators hear from their constituents. Urge your elected officials to protect the Postal Service. To connect with your Representative and Senator, please call the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121.
To find your Representative, please visit: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative.
To find your Senator, please visit: https://www.senate.gov/senators/contact.
APR 16, 2020
MOU on Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals
Please find attached a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Temporary Extension on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals.
Due to the impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the parties have agreed to extend the time limits for appealing grievances to Step 3 and to arbitration for an additional 30 days. This agreement is effective through May 18, 2020.
Prior to the expiration of this 30-day period, the parties will revisit this issue to determine if an additional extension is warranted.
If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department or your Regional Director.
Re: MOU on Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals (pdf)
APR 15, 2020
USPS Updates Family First Coronavirus Response Act
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
| USPS UPDATES FFCRA FAQs 4/15/20 |
Postal Service Releases Emergency Paid Sick Leave Supervisor Checklist
| USPS EMERGENCY PAID SICK LEAVE SUPERVISOR CHECKLIST 4/15/20 |
APR 14, 2020
Federal-Postal Coalition Urges Congress to Support Postal and Federal Employees
Recognizing the strain postal and federal employees are under due to COVID-19, NPMHU, along with other members of the Federal-Postal Coalition, expressed to members of Congress the need for financial relief for the Postal Service as well as assistance for those employed by USPS and other federal agencies.
The letter called for quarterly public service appropriations during fiscal year 2021 for USPS in order to combat the loss of revunue as a result of the coronavirus; a public service appropriation of $25 billion in order to support its employees and the infrastructure of the Postal Service; ensure sick and family leave for postal employees is not an unfunded mandate for USPS; and, clearly define postal employees as front line workers in order to receive hazard pay.
Additionally, the Coalition urged elected officials to fund appropriations for personal protective equipment for employees who are deemed essential, and that these PPEs are widely available. As these employees are risking their health and safety on a daily basis, the letter further called for the need of hazard premium pay, ensuring frontline employees receive appropriate compensation while working during a pandemic.
As postal and federal employees continue to work during the coronavirus pandemic, it is imparative Congress recognizes their need for health and safety security.
Federal-Postal Coalition Letter on COVID-19 (PDF)
APR 14, 2020
Support for USPS Grows on Capitol Hill
Following the passage of the CARES Act (P.L. 116-136), NPMHU National President Paul Hogrogian issued a statement calling out the woefully inadequate funding for USPS included in the bill: $10 billion in lending power at the discretion of the Department of Treasury, which has been leading charge on postal privatization.
Support for greater financial funding has also been seen on Capitol Hill from House committee leadership. Oversight & Reform Committee Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY-12) and Government Operations Subcommittee Chairman Gerry Connolly (D-VA-11) sent a letter to House and Senate leadership, calling for increased stimulus funding and debt relief as a means to ensure long-term viability.
As the letter states, "Postal workers are on the frontlines of this crisis, delivering essential information, packages, and services to the American people. We cannot afford to lose this massive infrastructure, with access to every resident and business in the country."
While NPMHU expected support from the committee and subcommittee of jurisdiction on postal issues, House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Bennie G. Thompson wrote his own letter for the record on the need to ensure that stability of the Postal Service. In it, the Chairman expressed the current decline of mail caused COVID-19 is a threat the longevity of the Postal Service.
As it states, "The loss of the Postal Service is simply unthinkable. It would not only cut off thousands of rural communities, it would imperil the affordable, daily delivery service on which countless households across the nation rely."
As Congress moves forward on financial aid for USPS, NPMHU will ensure its membership is aware of support from elected officials.
President Hogrogian Statement on CARES Act (PDF)
Chairwoman Maloney and Chairman Connolly Letter (PDF)
Chairman Thompson Letter (PDF)
APR 13, 2020
New MOUs Signed re: Residual Vacancy Ratios and LMOU Implementation Dates
Re-Setting Ratios Under MOU Re Filling of Residual Vacancies (pdf)
The NPMHU and the Postal Service have agreed on a Memorandum of Understanding to provide guidance about the re-setting of ratios under the MOU Re Filling of Residual Vacancies. A copy is attached.
Delay in Dates for LMOU Implementation under Article 30 (pdf)
Because of the ongoing pandemic, the NPMHU and the Postal Service have agreed on a Memorandum of Understanding to delay the period during which the parties at each Installation will be authorized to conduct negotiations over the terms of their Local Memoranda of Understanding or LMOUs. A copy of this MOU is attached.
APR 13, 2020
The NPMHU Announces the Passing of
Seattle P&DC Mail Handler
Querubin “Sonny” Quitlong
It is with regret and sorrow that the National Union announces the passing of Seattle P&DC Mail Handler Querubin “Sonny” Quitlong. His death is attributed to complications from the coronavirus.
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APR 12, 2020
| LOCAL 303 COVID-19 UPDATE #4 |
APR 10, 2020
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disturb our lives we can't forget that as union members, and postal employees, our Union has put together a good National Agreement that improves the pay and benefits for all Mail Handlers and Mail Handler Assistants.
Attached below are some implementation dates that are important to most of you.
Be safe and stay healthy
Eddie Cowan
Local President
| IMPLEMENTATION DATES FOR 2019 NATIONAL AGREEMENT PART 1 |
APR 10, 2020
NPMHU Mourns Passing of Sam D’Ambrosio, Former Vice President and National Shop Steward Trainer
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It is with great sadness that the NPMHU National Office announces the death of the beloved Sam D’Ambrosio, former Eastern Region Vice President and National Shop Steward Trainer for the NPMHU. Sam retired in 2013, and subsequently moved with his wife Dee from Pittsburgh, PA to Phoenix, AZ so they could be near his son, his daughter-in-law, and his two grandchildren.
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Sammy started his career as a Mail Handler in Pittsburgh, PA, working at the Bulk Mail Center and Network Distribution Center. He served three terms as President of Local 322, and was first elected Eastern Region Vice President of the National Union in 1992, a position that he maintained for six terms or 24 years.
During those years, Sam served as Chair of the Union’s Constitution Committee and Chair of the Union’s Field Negotiating Committee on too many occasions to count, and also served as part of the Union’s National Negotiations Team in negotiations and arbitration leading to the 2011 National Agreement. Also during those years, Sam worked on National grievances, served as Shop Steward Trainer, conducted training on casuals, FMLA, OSHA, arbitration advocacy, jurisdictional issues, and a host of other matters, and helped draft the first few versions of the Contract Interpretation Manual.
His accomplishments were routinely recognized by the membership, as he was re-elected without opposition and by acclamation of the delegates on many occasions.
Only a small part of Sam could be explained by his resume and his Union achievements. Sam also possessed a unique personality that filled every room he entered, enjoyed every restaurant he visited, and made him a friend to thousands of Mail Handlers across the country.
Our heartfelt sympathies and condolences go out to Sam’s wife Dee and the rest of the D’Ambrosio family. As further details become available, they will be shared with the Local Unions and the entire membership.
APR 9, 2020
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MESSAGE TO MEMBERSHIP FROM NPMHU NATIONAL
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APR 8, 2020
MEMBERS MAY SUBMIT PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS AND RESOLUTIONS
April 8, 2020 Memorandum to Local Presidents (pdf)
Members of the NPMHU who wish to submit proposals for consideration by the delegates at the 2020 National Convention must follow the requirements set forth in the NPMHU National Constitution. As set forth in Article XII of the National Union Constitution, the delegates to the 2020 National Convention will consider and vote upon amendments to both the NPMHU National Constitution and the Uniform Local Union Constitution that governs all Local Unions affiliated with the NPMHU.
In addition, the current National Constitution also sets forth the governing procedure for the consideration of resolutions, whether related to legislation or other topics of interest to mail handlers. Should you have any constitutional amendments or resolutions that you would like to propose, please be sure to follow the procedures set forth in Article XII of the National Constitution.
Because the opening of the National Convention is set for Tuesday, August 11, 2020, all submissions must be received at the National Office no later than Friday, June 12, 2020, which is sixty days prior to the opening of the 2020 National Convention.
The address for submitting any proposed amendments or resolutions is:
NPMHU 2020 National Convention
815 16th Street NW, Suite 5100
Washington, DC 20006
APR 8, 2020
Mail Handlers Ratify 2019 National Agreement
MEMBERSHIP RATIFIES 2019 NATIONAL AGREEMENT
The terms of the 2019 National Agreement between the NPMHU and the U.S. Postal Service were officially ratified on April 7, 2020, after a short delay in counting the votes caused by the ongoing pandemic.
The certified results show that over 96% of the membership approved of the new contract, with the final vote tally at 7,003 in favor of ratification and 255 in opposition to ratification.
Further details about the implementation of the 2019 National Agreement will be provided to Local Union officers and representatives as they become available.
Postal Service releases Do It Yourself face covering poster from the CDC (pdf)
Postal Service Delivers New Mandatory Stand-Up Talk to Employees
Concerning Additional CDC Recommendations: Cloth Face Coverings
April 5, 2020
| LOCAL 303 COVID-19 UPDATE #3 |
APR 2, 2020
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Message to Membership
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APR 2, 2020
Taking leave during COVID-19 Families First Coronavirus Response Act guidance
Effective April 1, 2020, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) provides employees with two additional types of leave. These new leave entitlements are in addition to leave you are already entitled to under the Employee and Labor Relations Manual (ELM) and any applicable Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs).
As a postal employee, you have certain rights under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act recently signed into law. These provisions will apply from April 1, 2020, through the end of the year.
April 2, 2020 Memorandum to Local Presidents (pdf) With attached Mandatory Stand-up Talk
APR 1, 2020
HOW SOAP KILLS THE CORONAVIRUS VIDEO (3:44)
MAR 30, 2020
Postal Service Updates Criteria for Return to Work for Employees with Confirmed Case of COVID-19, Supervisors and Management Guidance (PDF)
Including:
Criteria for Return to Work (RTW) for Employees with Confirmed Case of COVID-19, as of March 30, 2020.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Supervisor and Management Guidance, as of March 30, 2020.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Initial Decision Tree.
| LOCAL303 COVID -19 UPDATE #2 |
MAR 27, 2020
Additional COVID-19 Resources Released by USPS
Resources Added March 27, 2020
PDF Alternative Delivery Agreement for Screenings
PDF Letter to Customers Requiring Screening COVID-19
PDF Coronavirus- Avoiding Fear, Rumors, False Information And Panic
PDF Coronavirus-GraceUnderPressure
PDF Coronavirus-GuidanceForLeadership-Prepare Without Panic
PDF Coronavirus- Stay Socially Connected And Avoid Loneliness
PDF Coronavirus-Support Around The Clock
PDF Coronavirus-WaysToHelpManage Your Stress
PDF Safety Talk 4819 - Staying Vigilant
PDF USPS EAP Behavioral Health During a Pandemic-Public Health Emergency
MAR 27, 2020
March 27, 2020 USPS Mandatory Stand-up Talks Issued
Three Steps to Work Through Government-Imposed Travel restrictions (pdf)
| essential-service-provider-letter.pdf |
MAR 26, 2020
NPMHU and USPS Enter Memorandum of Understanding Re: Temporary Exception Period – COVID-19
In order to accommodate those installations that are experiencing high absenteeism because of the COVID-19 pandemic and consistent with the Letter of Intent Re: Mail Handler Assistants in Excess of Percentages Caps, the parties agree to an exception period for the hiring of mail handler assistants (MHA’s) in excess of the appropriate installation and district caps for MHAs.
The MHAs will not be used to the detriment of Mail Handlers on the Overtime Desired List.
The Postal Service will provide the NPMHU at the National level with reports every pay period on the number of temporary MHAs hired in each installation and the absenteeism rate for those facilities that have MHAs.
The exception period is effective with the signing of this MOU and will continue until May 25, 2020.
The parties will revisit this issue immediately prior to this MOU’s expiration to determine if extension is appropriate.
This MOU will expire May 25, 2020. (pdf)
MAR 25, 2020
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That number will certainly continue to rise. NPMHU representatives continue to meet on a regular basis with their counterparts in postal management to discuss the Postal Service’s response to the outbreak of the virus during rapidly changing circumstances.
Postal management has stated that they will continue to follow the guidance of the “health experts” such as CDC and HHS.
Read March 25, 2020 message to membership (pdf)
MAR 25, 2020
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Urge Your Member of Congress to Protect the Postal Service!
As Capitol Hill moves forward on historic stimulus packages, it is vital to remind them of the essential work performed by the postal service. The needs of the Postal Services and its workers should be a priority and included in any spending plan.
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The Postal Service is the driver of a $1.4 trillion-a-year mailing industry and employs over 7.5 million individuals – a similar size to the airline and automotive industries. Unlike these other industries, the Postal Service impacts every American household and business.
As the country enters an unprecedented economic downturn, the Postal Service faces serious threats to its viability. Yet as it’s being threatened, it continues to play an important role by delivering public health information, distributing protective gear and supplies for health care workers, and transporting consumer goods purchased online.
Congress has ignored the Postal Service and postal workers in the first stimulus bill. It appears that the Postal Service and its employees were not priorities for them. We must make sure that we are not ignored again in subsequent stimulus bills. Congress must act now to protect the Postal Service, its employees, and its customers.
Call your Representative, telling them the Postal Service needs to be included in a stimulus package. You can contact them through the Capitol Switch Board at 202-224-3121. The Postal Service cannot become another victim of the COVID-19 pandemic.
MAR 24, 2020
New Stand-up Talk Clarifies "Lockdown" and "Shelter-in-Place" Restrictions
As local and state governments begin to issue lockdowns and shelter-in-place restrictions, USPS issued stand-up talk language on how employees should travel to and from work while living under these restrictions. Postal employees are deemed "essential" and should continue to report to work, however, they should have their postal-issued indentification badge on hand when commuting.
Stand-up Talk on "Lockdown" and "Shelter-in-Place" Restrictions (pdf)
MAR 24, 2020
Q&As on COVID-19 (pdf)
| MAR 20, 2020 USPS INITIAL DECISION TREE MEMO |
MAR 23, 2020
USPS Issues Statement on the MOU on Liberal Changes of Schedule and Leave
Please find linked below a copy of the above-reference document from the Postal Service regarding the signed Memorandum of Understanding temporarily expanding the use of Sick Leave for Dependent Care to allow employees to use their sick leave for unexpected childcare needs as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to allowing Sick Leave for Dependent Care, for the next 60-day period, managers and supervisors should allow liberal changes of schedule in recognition of the disruption caused by the COVIDF-19 pandemic.
To the extent operationally practicable, managers and supervisors should accommodate employees who submit PS Form 3189, Request for Temporary Change of Schedule for Personal Convenience as a result of child care issues caused by daycare closures, school (Pre-K through Grade 12) closures or the unavailability of a child’s primary caregiver as a result of COVID-19 pandemic.
Manager and Supervisors should also allow liberal sick leave usage for employees who are sick, and liberal annual and leave without pay (LWOP) usage to the extent operationally feasible during this time period. If an employee request leave for reasons related to COVID-19, such leave should be treated as scheduled (as opposed to unscheduled) leave. Leave taken for COVID-19 related reasons between February 29, 2020, and May 17, 2020 may not be cited in discipline for failing to maintain an assigned schedule under ELM 511.43.
Memorandum: re USPS issues statement on the MOU on Liberal Changes of Schedule and Leave (pdf)
MAR 20, 2020
USPS SERVICE ALERT
The United States Postal Service is closely monitoring the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) situation and continues to follow strategies and measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health departments.
The CDC has information available on its website at https://www.coronavirus.gov that provides the latest information about COVID-19. We are sharing the CDC’s guidance to our employees via stand-up talks, employee news articles, messages on bulletin boards, videos and an intranet site directly to employees and within USPS workplaces.
The CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html), the World Health Organization (https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses), and the Surgeon General have indicated that there is currently no evidence that COVID-19 is being spread through the mail. The Postal Service has so far experienced only minor operational impacts in the United States as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
We do continue to have a temporary suspension of the guarantee on Priority Mail Express International destined for China and Hong Kong, which has been effective since Monday, Feb. 10, 2020, due to widespread airline cancellations and restrictions into this area. In addition, customers may see delays in mail and packages destined to China as well as from China, as well as to and from European countries subject to restricted passenger airline travel.
The Postal Service is undertaking all reasonable measures to minimize the impact to our customers. In addition, the Postal Service is an essential service for purposes of its compliance with state or municipality shelter-in-place orders or other social distancing restrictions.
The Postal Service delivers medications, social security checks, and is the leading delivery service for on-line purchases. The statute that created the Postal Service begins with the following sentence. “The United States Postal Service shall be operated as a basic and fundamental service provided to the people by the Government of the United States, authorized by the Constitution, created by an Act of Congress, and supported by the people.” 39 U.S.C. §101(a).
For more information, see the USPS Coronavirus Statement. USPS Continuity of Operations Update
MAR 19, 2020
Trump Signs Families First Coronavirus Response Act into Law
Following approval from the House and Senate, President Donald Trump signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201). As the country is experiencing a national crisis, Americans need to be reassured they will have access to medical testing for COVID-19 that will not cause an undue financial burden.
Within the bill, there is explicit language that those coved by the Federal Employee Health Benefits Plan (FEHPB), which is open to USPS employees, will not face a copayment or other cost sharing in order to be tested for the novel coronavirus.
It should be noted this does not cover subsequent treatment for COVD-19, and FEHBP covered employees could face out of pocket costs. Understanding the costly impact this could have on American families, members of Congress have been working on additional legislation and discussing options with the Centers for Disease Control on additionally covering treatment expenses. Please check back with the NPMHU website for updates.
President Trump Press Release on Signing H.R. 6201 into Law (link)
Senate Leader McConnell Remarks on Passing H.R. 6201 (link)
Speaker of the House Pelosi Statement on Passing H.R. 6201 (link)
MAR 19, 2020
USPS and NPMHU Reach Agreement Regarding Temporary Extensions on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals
Please find linked here a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Temporary Extension on Step 3 and Arbitration Appeals. (pdf)
Due to the impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the parties have agreed to extend the time limits for appealing grievances to Step 3 and to arbitration for a period of 30 days effective March 19, 2020.
Prior to the expiration of the 30-day period, the parties will revisit this issue to determine if an additional extension is warranted. If you have any questions, please contact the National Contract Administrative Department or your Regional Director.
MAR 19, 2020
USPS Issues Updated Supervisor and Management Guidance re Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
According to the Postal Service, they continue to monitor the spread of COVID-19 across the United States and the following information is provided to assist managers and supervisors to communicate with employees.
The memorandum an Updated Supervisor and Management Guidance is avaialble here. (pdf)
Key Facts to Emphasize:
1) While there is still much to learn about the unfolding situation involving the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is considered low for the general American public
2) If you have employees exhibiting these symptoms: fever, cough, and shortness of breath, provide them with a surgical mask and require them to go home and seek medical attention. Then, inform the District Occupational Health Nurse Administrator (OHNA) immediately.
3) The best preventive strategies against COVID-19 to communicate:
4) Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
5) Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
6) Avoid being exposed through close contact with people who are sick.
7) Stay home when you are sick.
MAR 18, 2020
Postal Unions Urge Leadership to Support the Postal Service
In a document to Senate Democratic leadership, NPMHU, along with NALC, NRLCA, and APWU, urged elected leaders to consider the impact of COVID-19 on the United States Postal Service. As the United States economy is experiencing historical losses, the unions reminded Congress, the Postal Service is a vital communications resource to every business and American household, and it generates $1.4 trillion in sales and employs 7.5 million Americans.
The unions called for:
A public service appropriation that would provide $7.1 billion a year to the Postal Service for two years in order to combat the oncoming recession;
The full repeal of the retiree healthcare mandate;
Create jobs by issuing a one-time appropriation to fund the manufacturing of a new fleet of vehicles to replace 210,000 obsolete vehicles currently in use;
Expand vote by mail and early voting options to ensure the democratic process is not interupted this election year.
Postal Unions Urge Senate Leadership to Support the Postal Service (pdf)
USPS Issues Guidance on Social Gatherings (pdf)
Please find linked above a copy of the referenced document from the Postal Service regarding the most recent Mandatory Stand-Up Talk concerning Social Gatherings. According to the Postal Service, information on guidance recently issued by the White House and Centers for Disease control and Prevention (CDC), regarding social gatherings. Avoiding social gatherings is a way to help reduce introduction of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) into new communities. It is also believed to help slow the spread of infection in communities already infected by the virus.
Specifically, the White House and CDC now recommend avoiding gatherings of more than 10 people for a 15-day period in order to slow the spread of COVID-19. Therefore, stand-up talks will be staggered with smaller groups indoors and/or be held outside for larger spacing if possible. The White House and CDC guidance states, “if you work in a critical infrastructure industry, which includes the Postal Service, you have a special responsibility to maintain your normal work schedule. “ Our core mission is to bind the nation together, and we continue to be a vital connection for millions of people throughout the nation. Be assured, the Postal Service is following operable CDC guidance to protect your health at work.
New Memorandum Establishes Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID-19
Captioned below is a new MOU signed by the NPMHU and the Postal Service establishing a temporary expansion of the Sick Leave for Dependent Care MOU because of the ongoing COVID-19 emergency.
For the 60-day duration of this Memorandum of Understanding, in addition to the purposes previously outlined in the MOU Re Sick Leave for Dependent Care, sick leave may be used by career mail handlers for unexpected childcare needs as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Specifically, employees may use sick leave for dependent care in the event they must care for a child as a result of daycare closures, school (Pre-K through Grade 12) closures, or the unavailability of a child’s primary caregiver as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This MOU does not change the 80-hour-limit for sick leave that may be used for dependent care in any leave year. Also, approval of sick leave for dependent care will continue to be subject to the normal procedures for leave approval.
Please do not hesitate to contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
A copy of this MOU has been posted here. (pdf)
New Memorandum Establishes Additional Paid Leave for Mail Handler Assistants
Captioned below is a new MOU signed by the NPMHU and the Postal Service establishing on a temporary basis additional paid leave for Mail Handler Assistant (MHA) employees.
As you know, unlike career mail handlers, MHAs currently are not eligible for paid sick leave or paid administrative leave. Under this MOU, however, for the 60-day duration of this Memorandum of Understanding, MHAs will be permitted to use up to 80 hours of paid leave for use in conjunction with the COVID-19 pandemic in any of the following circumstances:
The employee has contracted COVID-19 or has been directly exposed to someone with COVID-19;
The employee has visited any country identified by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as a level-3 country (currently China, South Korea, Iran, Italy, and most other European countries) within 14 days of the employee returning to work;
The employee returns from a trip on a cruise ship in which an identified case of COVID-19 was detected on board the ship;
The employee is experiencing symptoms generally associated with COVID-19; or
Consistent with the recently signed MOU Re: Temporary Expanded Sick Leave for Dependent Care During COVID-19.
Leave used for the above purposes will be coded as TACS Code 086, Other Paid Leave.
Except for emergencies, paid leave for the circumstances listed above must be requested on PS Form 3971, Request for or Notification of Absence, and approved in advance by the appropriate supervisor. Employees should designate the reason for the absence as “Other” and write “LC19” in the space provided.
An exception to the advance approval requirement is made for emergencies and unexpected illness; however, in these situations, the MHA must notify the appropriate postal authorities as soon as possible as to the emergency or illness and the expected duration of the absence. As soon as possible after return to duty, MHAs must submit PS Form 3971 and explain the reason for the emergency or illness to their supervisor.
The supervisor is responsible for approving or disapproving the application for paid leave by signing PS Form 3971, a copy of which is given to the MHA. If a supervisor does not approve an application for leave, the disapproved block on PS Form 3971 is checked and the reasons must be noted in writing in the space provided. AWOL determinations must be similarly noted.
The total 80-hour allotment will not be increased due to a MHA’s break in service during the 60-day period. Any remaining leave balance at the end of the 60-day period is forfeited.
Please do not hesitate to contact the National CAD should you have any questions.
A copy of this MOU has been posted here. (pdf)
MAR 17, 2020
| LOCAL 303 COVID-19 UPDATE 3/17/2020 |
MAR 16, 2020
BILOXI SAMLU MEETING CANCELLED
We received notification that the Beau Rivage hotel in Biloxi, MS is closing for a period through April 4. Moreover, they do not have a high level of confidence that they will reopen in time for our SAMLU event.
Therefore, out of an abundance of caution, and in compliance with Center for Disease Control (CDC) guideline, we are cancelling the physical April SAMLU meeting. We are working through options of holding a virtual SAMLU meeting by way of a webinar/webex/telecommunication method.
We will discuss this in greater detail during tomorrow’s conference call with Local Presidents. All reservations will automatically be cancelled and receive a full refund and there will be no cancellation fees or penalties associated with cancelling the event.
Unions Take Action On COVID-19
This week, the COVID-19 virus pandemic has understandably been centerstage. The Labor movement urges all working people to take the necessary precautions to protect your health and that of your neighbors and co-workers.
The National AFL-CIO has compiled an extensive list of industry-specific guidelines, with recommendations and information from affiliate unions, the Centers for Disease Control, World Health Organization, and OSHA. Everyone has a part to play in combatting this pandemic. Every one of us should: Wash your hands 10-20 times a day, avoid touching your face, cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow (not your hand), and stay home if you are feeling ill.
Now more than ever paid sick leave and flexible work schedules are critically important to changing the course of this pandemic. Call your representative and urge the support of H.R. 6139, issuing an emergency temporary standard to protect employees at risk from exposure. Call 1-866-832-1560 and tell your Representative to support the bill.
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MAR 10, 2020
Postal Service Releases Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic Influenza Plan
The Postal Service is establishing interim measures more specific to the COVID-19 outbreak to be taken by management and employees based upon the presence or absence of COVID-19 cases in the immediate community and among employees or their families.
The mitigation measures are based on current advice from CDC and other responsible federal agencies in order to promote the safety and health of postal employees, their family members, postal customers, and the communities serviced by the Postal Service.
They are subject to change as the current COVID-19 outbreak unfolds and more knowledge is gained by federal, state, and local public health authorities in combating the spread of the outbreak, and in the treatment of those who are ill.
Please review this attached memorandum and disseminate this information, as you deem appropriate. (pdf)
MAR 6, 2020
MAR 5, 2020
2020 NPMHU CONVENTION MERCHANDISE NOW AVAILABLE
MAR 3, 2020
Updated Coronavirus COVID-19 Response and Prevention
March 3, 2020 Memorandum to Local Presidents- Coronavirus COVID-19 Response (pdf) On Saturday, February 29, 2020, the National Postal Mail Handlers Union was notified that after extended overseas travel, a Seattle NDC employee tested positive for COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus.
This incident, in concert with media reports of COVID-19 outbreaks in multiple states, has propelled this issue to the front line. On March 2, 2020, President Paul Hogrogian, Secretary-Treasurer Michael Hora and National CAD Representatives, along with representatives from all postal unions, met with Postmaster General Megan Brennan and senior leadership of the Postal Service to discuss countermeasures and abatement protocol to address the coronavirus outbreak.
One thing is clear: we are in the early stages of this national emergency.
*The complete memorandum and related attachments are available here.
MAR 2, 2020
Coronavirus- Flu Response and Prevention
Mandatory Stand-Up Talk (Feb. 29, 2020) Staying vigilant - Flu Response and Prevention (pdf) As you may be aware several cases of the Coronavirus have arisen in the Seattle area. One of our Seattle NDC employees has tested positive for the COVID-19, also known as the Coronavirus.
This employee has self-quarantined and will not return to our facility until cleared by health authorities. In consultation with the Seattle Public Health Department, we have been informed the current risk to our employees is low and that the building in which the individual worked is safe for employees.
The safety and well-being of our employees is one of our highest priorities. To ensure the health of our employees, we are continuing to follow recommended strategies from the CDC and Seattle Public Health Department. These include:
Increased cleaning of frequently touched surfaces in the workplace (consoles, doorknobs, countertops, workstations, etc.)
Encouraging sick employees to stay home and consult their health care provider
Use of contract cleaner to enhance and supplement current cleaning protocols
Making available Clorox wipes for your use throughout the facility. Feel free to use these to sanitize your work station.
Making N-95 Respirators and Nitrile gloves available on a voluntary basis for any employee who request them.
(Note: OSHA Appendix D will be provided to employees) Ensuring all restrooms are well equipped with towels, soap, and hand sanitizer at all times.
We are posting additional information on all of the bulletin boards in the facility. These additional postings, created by the CDC, discuss how to respond if you experience symptoms and more information about the Coronavirus.
It’s important to remember that the best defense against sickness is good personal hygiene. Practice good respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene.
Wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds at a time and cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing.
COVID19 Coronavirus Disease CDC Fact Sheet (pdf)
COVID19 Coronavirus SYMPTOMS CDC Fact Sheet (pdf)
CDC: What to do if you are sick with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) (pdf)
CDC: Stop the spread of germs (pdf)
OSHA Overview
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in confirmed human infections in China and a growing number of other countries, including the United States. Infected patients have also spread the virus to healthcare workers. The latest situation summary updates are available on CDC’s COVID-19 webpage.
There is no evidence of widespread transmission of COVID-19 in the United States at this time. Without sustained human-to-human transmission, most American workers are not at significant risk of infection. Exposure risk may be elevated for some workers who interact with potentially infected travelers from abroad, including those involved in:
Healthcare
Deathcare
Laboratories
Airline operations
Border protection
Solid waste and wastewater management
Travel to areas, including parts of China, where the virus is spreading
There is much more to learn about the transmissibility, severity, and other features associated with COVID-19 as the outbreak investigation continues. Infected people can spread COVID-19 through their respiratory secretions, especially when they cough or sneeze.
According to the CDC, spread from person-to-person is most likely among close contacts (about 6 feet). Person-to-person spread is thought to occur mainly via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how influenza and other respiratory pathogens spread.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. It’s currently unknown if a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.
In addition to this OSHA guidance, employers and workers should consult interim CDC guidance specific to COVID-19. CDC also provides tips on what the general public should do during the ongoing outbreak.
FEB 28,2020
STAY HEALTHY!
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union is committed to the health and welfare of its members and their families. Knowledge can be an important part of staying healthy! The USPS has recently published a NEWSBREAK that contains Health Tips to prevent the spread of flu and respiratory diseases, including the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The NPMHU encourages the printing and posting of this on NPMHU bulletin boards. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the source for continually updated information regarding the Coronavirus Disease https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html The CDC resources include:
What You Should Know, including How it spreads; Symptoms; Prevention and treatment; Testing; Frequently asked questions https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html
Latest Situation Updates, including Situation summary; Cases in the US; and more https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/summary.html Information for Specific Audiences, including Communities, schools, and businesses; Healthcare professionals; Travel; and more https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/index.html USPS NewBreak 2-21-2020 (pdf)
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The Union is Protesting at the Los Angeles P&DC
at 7001 South Central ave Los Angeles CA 90052
from February 27 thru March 2nd 2020.
We are working to stop Harassment, Sexual Harassment, Reprisal, Retaliation, Dignity & Respect Violations and the Disregard for Safety.
We Need your Help to Protect the Employees!
Van F. Cunningham
NPMHU Local 303
323-757-0161
NPMHU LOCAL 303 PRESIDENT EDDIE COWAN
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FEB 25, 2020
NPMHU Supports Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
On Sunday, May 31, 2020, thousands of walkers representing local businesses, families, schools, Unions and other organizations will gather on the National Mall in Washington D.C. to participate in the annual JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes.
The walk begins 10:30 A.M. with registration tables open beginning 9:00 A.M. The National Postal Mail Handlers Union has been a sponsor and a participant of the JDRF Walk to cure diabetes for over 22 years and we will continue to walk until Type One becomes Type None! If you can't make it in person, we still need your support. Please visit the Mail Handlers JDRF One Walk team page and donate today.
Ratification Packet: Error in MHA Rate at Level 4, Effective in November 2021 This memorandum is to inform all Local Unions of an error contained in the ratification materials relating to the tentative agreement to govern the terms of the 2019 National Agreement. In particular, those ratification materials incorrectly state that the MHA Level 4 wage rate will be $17.36 per hour effective in November 2021, the third year of the agreement, when that revised rate should be listed as $17.32. See 2-28-2020 memorandum (pdf)
FEB 24, 2020
FEB 13, 2020
Postal Employees Again Targeted in White House Budget
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Drastic cuts to postal employees’ wages and benefits are included within the White House’s fiscal year 2021 budget released on Monday, February 10. While the White House estimates its budget would save the Postal Service $97 billion over the next 11 years, it would be done so at the expense of its employees.
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The FY21 budget takes direction from the 2018 Postal Task Force Report by calling for utilizing the private sector for mail sorting and processing, taking away jobs from union members. Impacting the mission of the Postal Service directly, the budget and the Task Force propose changing universal service obligations by reducing delivery frequency and providing access to the mailbox. The budget and the Task Force also attack union rights, calling for aligning the Postal Service with the rest of the federal workforce, which would mean moving away from collective bargaining rights over pay.
Current and retired employees would see negative impacts to both Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) benefits. Similar to language seen in previous White House budgets, the FY21 plan calls for changes to FERS and CSRS benefits. FERS employees would see an increase of contributions by 1% every year until it is equal to the contributions of the federal government; an elimination of the FERS supplement for those who retire before the age of 62; and elimination of cost of living adjustments (COLAs). CSRS retirees would face a reduction of COLAs by 0.5%. Further damaging to retirees, the FY21 budget utilizes a “high 5” instead of a “high 3,” using the highest five salary years to calculate annuities instead of the current highest three salary years. Finally, the budget calls to reduce the TSP G Fund interest rate, a change which has been decried as it creates a G Fund that is ineffective for investors and does not generate the budgetary savings promised.
Responding to the White House Budget, NPMHU President Paul V. Hogrogian commented, “The national deficit was not caused by dedicated mail handlers. It should not be solved on their backs. This budget will do nothing but disenfranchise the hardworking men and women of the Postal Service and undermine our ability to serve the American public.”
While these changes would be detrimental to all postal employees and retirees, when past budgets called for similar changes, there was no appetite for them on Capitol Hill. Members of the House of Representatives and the Senate have not supported these cuts in the past, and it is unlikely they will for fiscal year 2021. Yet, it is important to remain aware of these proposed attacks against the workforce, and NPMHU will keep its members up to date on these issues.
FEB 10, 2020
FEB 5, 2020
United States House of Representatives Passes USPS Fairness Act
As a result of the dedicated work of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union and its fellow postal unions, on Wednesday, February 5, members of the House of Representatives voted in favor of H.R. 2382, the USPS Fairness Act, calling to repeal the Postal Service’s mandate to prefund its retiree healthcare costs.
Representatives realized the financial burden prefunding causes, creating an annual loss of $5 billion for over a decade. Because of this loss, the Postal Service has been forced to cut services and unable to focus on revenue growth. By repealing the prefunding mandate, the Postal Service will return to a pay as you go means of funding retiree healthcare benefits, a practice that is used in all other federal agencies, and within the private sector. NPMHU, the National Association of Letter Carriers, the American Postal Workers, and the National Rural Letter Carriers Association expressed in a letter to members of House, “After 13 years of gridlock over more comprehensive postal reform, the USPS Fairness Act would ease the burden on Congress by reducing the size of the financial hole to be filled.”
Upon the passage of the bill, NPMHU National President Paul V. Hogrogian commented, “This bill is an important first step towards obtaining fiscal stability for the Postal Service. As H.R. 2382 received overwhelming bipartisan support with a vote of 309-106, it is obvious Representatives recognize how vital the Postal Service is to all Americans. I also want to thank NPMHU members who contacted their Representatives, expressing their support for the legislation. Your efforts added to our success today.”
However, today’s passage in the House does not mark the end of NPMHU’s efforts to repeal the prefunding mandate. In order for the USPS Fairness Act to become law, it needs to next be passed in the Senate, then signed by the President. On December 3, 2019, Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Brian Schatz (D-HI) introduced a introduced a companion bill, S. 2965, in the Senate. NPMHU will update its members with any updates on any advancement of this vital legislation.
JAN 27, 2020
House Resolution H.R. 2382 on Track for a House Vote
The work of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union to gain congressional support of H.R. 2382, the USPS Fairness Act, has resulted in a scheduled House floor vote the week of February 3. Our dedicated actions resulted in over 300 members of the House cosponsoring the bill, showing their support. As our members are aware, H.R. 2382 would repeal the onerous mandate for the Postal Service to prefund its retiree healthcare benefits. This mandate, which no other federal agency or private company is forced to do, is responsible for 100% of USPS’s financial losses since 2013. By repealing it, Congress will be setting USPS on firmer financial footing.
To see if your Representative is a cosponsor of the bill, please click here. To urge your Representative to become a sponsor, or to thank them for their support, please call the Capitol Hill Switch Board at 202-224-3121.
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SUMMARYOF TENTATIVE AGREEMENT
ESTABLISHING TERMS OF 2019 NATIONAL AGREEMENT
Local President Eddie Cowan getting thumbs up (bottom left photo) from NDC postal management,
even some of the managers want sexual harassment to end.
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JAN 10, 2020
Reminder: Deadline to appeal 399 settlement distribution is January 17, 2020
As announced on October 16, 2019, the National Office has established a union-run appeal procedure for claims to be filed by ineligible mail handlers who believe they should have been listed amongst the eligible and by eligible mail handlers who believe they did not receive the proper number of shares authorized. Appeals must be received at the National Office by January 17, 2020. The decisions made by this appeal procedure will be final and binding.
Each mail handler filing an appeal is reminded to provide any supporting documentation that is deemed appropriate to support your appeal such as a copy of your October 4, 2019 paystub, as well as any documentation that shows any transfers such as PS Form 50(s) and RTR Report (accessible in one's eOPF).
Thorough and complete forms filed with supporting documentation will help expedite the processing of appeals.
Appeals may be faxed to 202-833-0008 or mailed to the National Headquarters at:
National Postal Mail Handlers Union
Attn:
RI-399 Monetary Payment Appeals
815 16th Street NW, Suite 5100
Washington, DC 20006
JAN 9, 2020
Organizers and Activists in Grand Alliance Deliver Petition to PMG
On January 6, 2020, NPMHU officers and staff joined fellow union members including the APWU, NALC, and AFL-CIO with organizers and activists from many organizations in A Grand Alliance to Save Our Public Postal Service (Grand Alliance) -- all came together at USPS Headquarters to demand the Postal Board of Governors preserve the public Postal Service.
The rally concluded a hugely successful petition drive by the Grand Alliance, launched after current Postmaster General Megan Brennan announced in October that she would retire on Jan. 31, 2020.
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Video link courtesy of APWU
1/6/2020
Postmaster General Agrees to Delay Retirement
DEC 5, 2019
Legislative Update- S. 2965, the USPS Fairness Act Introduced
Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Brian Schatz (D-HI) have introduced S. 2965, the USPS Fairness Act, on December 4, 2019. The bill is the Senate version of House Bill H.R. 2382, which was introduced by Congressman Peter DeFazio (D-0R) earlier this year, on April 29, 2019. Together these bills would repeal the requirement that the U.S. Postal Service prepay for future retirement benefits through continuing contributions to the Retiree Health Benefits Fund.
The House version has bi-partisan support with over 290 cosponsors, which now means, by House rules, it can be voted upon by the entire House.
President Hogrogian emphasized that this is the first step towards righting the USPS financial ship, but surely not be the last. “We still need comprehensive Postal Reform, but meanwhile we will to continue to work with our partners to see this most needed reform is passed through the House and Senate and signed into law.”
President Hogrogian wants all members to contact their Senators to ask them to support S. 2965. Also, members should thank their representatives in the House who have signed onto H.R. 2382 or ask them to support the bill if they already have not.
Protect Our Postal Service
Urge Your U.S. Representative to Co-Sponsor H.R. 2382, the USPS Fairness Act For years, the U.S. Postal Service has been burdened by an unfair mandate that threatens the vital services it provides.
Congress can fix this manufactured crisis. Tell them to pass the USPS Fairness Act. It’s because of grassroots activism like yours that we will save our constitutional right to a public postal service. Since 2006, USPS has been battered by an unfair congressional mandate, costing it billions every year and threatening the service we need. Finally, there’s a commonsense solution to fix it.
Use the form at this link to be connected to your U.S. representative’s office. Ask them to co-sponsor the bipartisan USPS Fairness Act, H.R. 2382, which eliminates the unfair burdens threatening to end our Postal Service.
| 2019 LOCAL 303 XMAS PARTY |
NOV 13, 2019
NPMHU LAUNCHES MOBILE APP
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The National Office is pleased to announce the launch our official NPMHU mobile App. We’ve heard from more and more members that use smartphones to stay connected. They would like to have an NPMHU App to get their information; we are pleased to provide this communication tool. You can access the latest news, updates, events, and information of organizational importance.
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NOV 8, 2019
Das Decision Preserves Existing Cross-Craft Reassignment Options
Arbitrator Das has ruled against the NALC in its National Arbitration against the Postal Service over whether the NALC achieved an upgrade in the levels to which its members are designated under their 2016 National Agreement, thus impacting the positions available for cross-craft reassignments.
The NPMHU intervened in the case, arguing that the NALC's position should be rejected, and that the Postal Service's position should be upheld. A complete copy of the award and memorandum to Local Presidents is available at this link. (pdf)
NOV 7, 2019
Settlement Reached on Interpretive Dispute
Concerning MHA Holiday Pay
The NPMHU and the Postal Service have reached a pre-arbitration settlement on the interpretive dispute concerning payment to Mail Handler Assistants or MHAs for retroactive holidays during the first year of the 2016 National Agreement. The Case No. is Q16M-6Q-C 17583292.
The issue in this dispute was the effective date of the provisions of Articles 11 .1 and 11.3 of the National Agreement, as well as the subsection of the MOU on Mail Handler Assistant Employees governing Article 11 issues for MHAs. Together, these provisions guarantee that MHAs receive pay for up to six holidays per year, but there was a dispute concerning the beginning date for application of these provisions.
As a result of this settlement, the parties have agreed that eligible MHAs will receive holiday pay for three (3) holidays during the first year of the 2016 National Agreement, which ended on May 20, 2017. Thus, current MHAs or Mail Handlers who were on the rolls as MHAs on Thanksgiving Day 2016, Christmas Day 2016, and/or New Year's Day 2017 will receive retroactive holiday pay for these holidays in accordance with Articles 11.1 and 11.3 of the 2016 National Agreement. Management had taken the position that the provisions of Article 11 only applied after ratification of the Agreement, which occurred in February 2017, and this settlement is a compromise of the parties' respective positions.
The payments owed will be made as soon as administratively practicable. Any cases being held on this issue at the Local or Regional level are resolved on the same basis.
November 4, 2019 - Memorandum to Local Presidents re: Pre-Arbitration 4 Settlement on 2016-2017 Holiday Pay for MHAs (pdf)
OCT 17, 2019
Mail Handlers are Deeply Saddened
by the Passing of Elijah Cummings
National President Paul Hogrogian, National Secretary-Treasurer Michael Hora, and the entire NPMHU National Executive Board are saddened to note the passing of Elijah Cummings, a fierce and devoted advocate for the Postal Service and its employees during his 23 years as a Member of Congress.
Congressman Cummings, who represented Maryland’s 13th congressional district and the City of Baltimore since 1996, most recently served as Chairman of the full House Committee on Oversight & Government Reform. He did so with the integrity and grace for which he was properly and universally admired.
President Hogrogian expressed his personal appreciation, and the appreciation of all Mail Handlers, for the Congressman’s continuous work to support postal reform legislation during the past several years.
Together with other committee leaders, Congressman Cummings was a strong supporter of the bipartisan legislation that has been supported by the NPMHU and all other postal stakeholders to preserve the Postal Service as a vital American institution.
He also was a frequent visitor and speaker at the NPMHU’s biennial Legislative Conferences, where he earned and received the admiration of all Mail Handlers in attendance.
Elijah Cummings was a son of a sharecroppers who never forgot where he came. He was an icon in his community and in Congress, and will truly be missed.
SEP 26, 2019
Urge Your U.S. Representative to Co-Sponsor H.R. 2382, the USPS Fairness Act
It’s because of grassroots activism like yours that we will save our constitutional right to a public postal service. Since 2006, USPS has been battered by an unfair congressional mandate, costing it billions every year and threatening the service we need. Finally, there’s a commonsense solution to fix it.
Use the form below to be connected to your U.S. representative’s office. Ask them to co-sponsor the bipartisan USPS Fairness Act, H.R. 2382, which eliminates the unfair burdens threatening to end our Postal Service.
SEP 20, 2019
2019 Contract Update #9
2019 Contract Negotiations Extended Past Deadline
This is the ninth Contract Update produced and distributed by the NPMHU during the course of 2019 negotiations. These updates, along with the Union’s magazine and monthly bulletins, are used to keep mail handlers throughout the country informed about the issues raised during this round of bargaining.
The final days and hours of bargaining over the terms of the NPMHU-USPS 2019 National Agreement have now passed, with the parties unable to reach a tentative agreement over all of the terms and conditions that need to be covered by the National Agreement as of contract expiration at midnight on September 20, 2019.
Discussions are continuing, however, and thus the parties have agreed to extend their negotiations past last night’s deadline to give their bargaining representatives additional time to reach a comprehensive settlement agreement.
Though many topics have been discussed, the scope of tentative agreements reach to this point is relatively limited. At the same time, the parties have agreed to extend their negotiations because there remains a shared hope that an overall agreement can still be reached.
More details about the past three months of bargaining, and the plans for future negotiations, will be shared in NPMHU publications and discussed with Local Union representatives at a meeting now scheduled for Monday, September 30, 2019
As always, please watch your bulletin boards and the National website for the latest information.
SEP 19, 2019
| 2019 CONTRACT UPDATE #8 |
SEP 18, 2019
NPMHU Bidding Procedures Confirmed - Bargaining Continues
Effective September 21, 2019, mail handlers will be allowed to bid under the new contract, whether or not the parties reach a tentative settlement, extend bargaining, or enter into impasse procedures. Successful bids on or after September 21, 2019 will be counted towards the bid maximums established in the 2019 National Agreement.
September 18, 2019 Memorandum to Local Presidents and USPS letter confirming bidding procedures (pdf)
SEP 16, 2019
SEP 13, 2019
CONTRACT UPDATE #7
You are reading the seventh Contract Update produced and distributed by the NPMHU during the course of 2019 negotiations. These updates, along with the Union’s magazine and monthly bulletins, will keep mail handlers throughout the country informed about the issues raised during this round of bargaining.
Representatives from the Postal Service, led by Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President David Williams, met with the NPMHU bargaining team on September 10, 2019 to discuss USPS operations forecasts. The USPS also provided the Union with relevant financial materials after cancelling a live presentation on USPS Finances that originally was planned for August 30.
Operations Overview
Williams presented a doom and gloom picture of the future state of mail processing operations, emphasizing several key points along the way. The growth of package mail has not offset the continuing decline in first-class mail, and even package mail is slowing as the Postal Service’s four largest competitors are developing of their own delivery networks. USPS claims that the mail volume which is processed by the mail handler craft is “leaving the system,” and that “growth … is going into delivery injection.” Moreover, investments needed for a new vehicle fleet may be made by cutting the workforce of other crafts.
Also highlighted were the automation systems that have been implemented at the Portland, OR P&DC, which were called “the model for the future.” At that facility, mail processing work hours have been reduced by 17%. USPS investments in the Universal Sorting System (USS) are expected to increase, with 23 sites now planned, and even the supersized EPPS machine may be the subject of additional orders. As these sites receive new automation, machines like the APPS and APBS are being re-deployed to other facilities.
While the growth of automation is inevitable, the Postal Service also believes that the total number of mail handler employees is expected to remain fairly stable over the next several years. Management’s emphasis, as always, is in increasing the “flexibility” of workforce hours rather than reducing the total number of hours.
A Look at Finances
Although the Postal Service has now shared its economic forecasts, the economic bargaining proposals from both parties still have not officially be introduced at the Main Table. Nonetheless, it is safe to predict that the ultimate debate during upcoming negotiations will have to address some of the trends and arguments put forth in the USPS, including that:
Mail volume mix is changing, with declines led by electronic mail. Intense competition will incentivize the workforce and customers in ways that USPS cannot.
2018’s total expenses were $76.1B.
Wages = $32.7B
Benefits = $20.5B
Paid Time Off = $5.1B Labor & benefit costs make up approximately 80% of USPS total costs.
The Final Stretch
The NPMHU bargaining team will be checking into its hotel residence for round-the-clock bargaining this weekend. Several TAs have been agreed upon and are in the editing process. As several important understandings have already been reached at the Main Table, the parties are ready to focus their discussions on those most disputed and prioritized issues that have emerged in this round of negotiations.
Continue to watch your bulletin boards and the National website for the latest information.
| CONTRACT UPDATE #7 |
SEP 6, 2019
CONTRACT UPDATE #6
Contract Expiration Approaches
You are reading the sixth Contract Update produced and distributed by the NPMHU during the course of 2019 negotiations. These updates, along with the Union’s magazine and monthly bulletins, will keep mail handlers throughout the country informed about the issues raised during this round of bargaining.
With two weeks remaining before the current National Agreement expires at midnight on September 20, 2019, your bargaining team has been hard at work. In spite of management’s sluggish pace—the Postal Service announced their first proposals only last week—we have continued to hash out the history and evidence behind each of our proposals in Main Table and Subcommittee meetings. Those proposals that were submitted to us from the field by our membership have been especially helpful in making our needs known.
During the most recent Main Table meetings, management reviewed all of the proposals submitted so far, one by one. As our proposals were submitted in segments, this was the NPMHU’s first time to get an overall look at what management is thinking. Some topics were officially designated ‘economic’ issues in this meeting, so we will know more about their considerations and potential offers soon. As several of our highest negotiation priorities, like Night Shift Differential and Overtime, fall into this deferred economic discussion category, we are working to learn more.
Meanwhile, the USPS canceled its formal presentation on the current state of Postal Service finances, which originally was scheduled for August 30, 2019. Instead, the Union were presented with a written presentation and we are awaiting additional relevant documents that, management claims, will give the Union a better understanding of the current financial outlook.
Both the Union and USPS proposals that have been discussed at length during Main Table bargaining will be further reviewed within the various subcommittees. The proposals that are talked about most extensively are typically the ones that are more likely to be adopted in some form, as these are continuously considered and refined throughout the bargaining process. On the other hand, those proposals which have not sparked lengthy discussions, but rather feelings of fear or even ridicule, are less likely to find their way into any agreement. But that doesn’t mean these less-discussed proposals are over and done with, unless and until they are withdrawn by the party that initially proposed them. Finally, even relatively minor or cosmetic changes to the National Agreement, including the updating of dates and alterations to Article and Section headings, will take some time to process, even if they eventually will be written fairly quickly.
The Tentative Agreement Process On the topic of tentative agreements—the first hints toward possible “TAs,” as they are known—a limited number of references to TAs have begun to appear in ongoing conversations at the bargaining table. Tentative agreements follow the presentation and discussion of proposals, but also must be initialed by both parties and are dependent upon agreement on all terms in the new National Agreement. In previous Contract Updates, we have taken a closer look at the general workings of the bargaining process. Tentative Agreements are the semi-final phase of that process. As the name suggests, however, these tentative agreements are only final and binding when they are inserted into and become part of an overall settlement on all terms of the next National Agreement. The final collection of TAs, signed by both parties, will then be dependent on ratification by the NPMHU membership. If the eligible membership does not vote to ratify the negotiated settlement agreement, these agreed-upon TAs will become null and void.
Looking Forward: The remainder of this month leading up to contract expiration will include more frequent meetings, with the final submission of documents obtained from the NPMHU’s records and archives, the Regional Offices, and the Local Unions aimed at strengthening our case for each proposal. During the current contract’s final week, the negotiating teams will be available to meet around the clock at a hotel in downtown Washington, DC. Team members’ schedules will be cleared to focus entirely on bargaining; it is hoped that such concentration of effort will create an abundance of TAs during that time.
The next Contract Update will focus on the state of USPS finances, and what it means for this year’s round of negotiations—and beyond.
Continue to watch your bulletin boards and the National website for the latest information.
| 2019 Contract Update #6 |
AUG 16, 2019
2019 Contract Update #5
You are reading the fifth Contract Update produced and distributed by the NPMHU during the course of 2019 negotiations. These updates, along with the Union’s magazine and monthly bulletins, will keep mail handlers throughout the country informed about the issues raised during this round of bargaining.
The NPMHU and the Postal Service have now been engaged in collective bargaining for over a month. As the September 20, 2019 expiration date grows closer, the parties are meeting more frequently to discuss the importance Union proposals. Subcommittees continue to meet as scheduled, in addition to weekly main table meetings. At this time, the Union’s economic proposals (covering Articles 9, 21, and 26) have not yet been presented – we are working through our noneconomic demands first.
The Postal Service continues to delay submitting its own proposals, and as of this writing still has not presented any official counterproposals. Perhaps patience is a virtue.
Final COLA Set At $624
All career Mail Handler craft employees are scheduled to receive another cost-of-living adjustment, based on an annual increase of $624 for all Table 1 Steps and Table 2’s Step P. Other steps on Table 2 will receive their proportional share. The new pay scales are posted online at npmhu.org and will posted in the next monthly bulletin.
Other Union Updates
The Rural Letter Carriers just ratified a new three-year agreement covering the period from May 2018 to May 2021. The APWU is still bargaining from last year’s May 20, 2018 contract expiration, and the NALC just started its round of bargaining in June 2019, following the same timing as the NPMHU.
USPS Finances:
Here’s What We Know
While everyone continues to await the release of the Post Office’s 10-Year-Plan, as well as the official USPS financial presentation to be provided directly to our bargaining team, the following related developments are worth noting:
“Very happy,” said Robert Duncan, USPS Board of Governors chairman, in regards the board’s new quorum, which was confirmed by Congress on August 1, 2019. This is the BOG’s first quorum since 2014.
The expected 10-Year-Plan will not be released until it has been reviewed by all new members of the BOG. USPS continues to tout its recent reductions in work hours as one of the primary methods of cost-cutting.
An outline of the 10-Year-Plan, in draft form, has been shared with key leaders in Congress, and included cuts in other workforce expenses, such as reductions in pay, leave, and benefits.
It remains to be seen whether the final 10-Year-Plan will provide more sustainable possibilities for the Postal Service’s economic future, and what impact the final plan may have on National negotiations.
Updates will continue to be published whenever possible in the coming days and weeks. Continue to watch your bulletin boards and the National website for the latest information.
| LA CERRITOS 2019 PICNIC POSTER.pdf |
AUGUST 1, 2019
2019 Contract Update #4
You are reading the fourth Contract Update produced and distributed by the NPMHU during the course of 2019 negotiations. These updates, along with the Union’s website, magazine and monthly bulletins, will keep mail handlers informed about the issues raised during this round of bargaining.
The NPMHU and the U.S. Postal Service have now been engaged in collective bargaining for almost a full month. Here is a summary of what has transpired during this time, and an update on how negotiations are proceeding.
At this writing, the NPMHU has introduced the vast majority of its noneconomic bargaining proposals.
This past week, for example, the Union presented more than thirty pages of proposals falling within the scope of Article 12 governing seniority, posting, and reassignments and Article 15 governing the grievance-arbitration procedure for handling disputes between the parties. Earlier, the Union had submitted all of its noneconomic proposals for Articles 1 through 14, and soon the Union will hand over its suggestions for Articles 16 through 39.
Even after these submissions are complete, that does not mean that the NPMHU will not be creating more proposals and counterproposals before bargaining is complete, both as adjustments to prior proposals and reactions to USPS-generated amendments for the National Agreement.
As is common, the Postal Service is delaying introduction of its own proposals, which normally are smaller in number but larger in impact. These likely will not be shard until August, although USPS counterproposals to the Union’s proposals may come earlier. (The term “counterproposal” is used to describe any proposal brought forward by the Postal Service that is in direct response to an earlier NPMHU proposal. Likewise, a new proposal from the Union in response to a management proposal also is referred to as a counterproposal.)
The parties also have created a host of subcommittees. Each party’s appointees to each subcommittee has been set, and the schedule for meetings of each subcommittee also is being drafted. To this point, the parties have agreed on subcommittees to deal with Article 2, Article 7 (employee classifications), Article 8 (overtime), Article 12, Article 15, Mail Handler Assistant issues, Article 32 (subcontracting), and MOUs and LOIs.
The key to success for many of these subcommitees will be for the Union, through its Local Unions or through the Regional or National Contract Administration Department, to develop facts and arguments from our firsthand knowledge of whatever flaws exist in current contract language, in implementation of the current contract language, or in the real-life situations and impact that the National Agreement has on the mail handler workforce.
The National Office thanks the Locals and the various CAD representatives for their expected and now-routine cooperation in putting together these facts and arguments.
Looking Forward: Financial Presentations
With the nearing submission of a complete package of non-economic proposals into the official record of bargaining, the parties will thereafter turn their attention to the major financial issues. The Postal Service is planning to provide the NPMHU with its official, on-the-record financial presentation toward the end of August.
If past rounds of bargaining are any indication, the data to be presented will center on the Postal Service’s dire predictions about its financial viability, with a particular emphasis on the continuing decline in mail volume and the continuing need to control or reduce labor costs. Potential legislative or regulatory action to eliminate the economic burden of the pre-funding mandate for the Retiree Health Benefits Fund, to authorize larger-than-inflation rate increases, or to remove other restrictions on the USPS business model will likely go unmentioned by the Postal Service, even though both parties fully recognize that such changes are needed if the Postal Service is going to be able to deal with its long-term financial challenges.
It also is likely that the USPS will be discussing its oft-mentioned but seldom-seen Ten-Year Plan, which the Postal Service has been forced to put together by certain Members of Congress. That Plan is scheduled for public release in the near future, and may cause a disruption to the usual flow of national negotiations.
Future issues of these Contract Updates will report on the information that is exchanged during the various subcommittee meetings, as well as during the Main Table discussions of finances and other policy issues facing the parties.
As always, continue to watch your bulletin boards and the National website for the latest information.
| 2019 CONTRACT UPDATE 4 |
| 2019 CONTRACT UPDATE 3.pdf |
JUL 16, 2019
UPDATE ENHANCED PACKAGE PROCESSING SORTER (EPPS)
| EPPS CRAFT DETERMINATION 2019 |
JUL 12, 2019
UPDATE FOR UNIVERSAL SORTING SYSTEM
| UNIVERSAL SORTING SYSTEM (JULY 2019) |
JUL 11, 2019
2019 Contract Update #2
| 209 CONTRACT UPDATE #2 |
You are reading the second Contract Update produced and distributed by the NPMHU during the course of 2019 negotiations. These updates, along with the Union’s magazine and monthly bulletins, will keep mail handlers throughout the country informed about the issues raised during this round of bargaining. In its first Contract Update, the NPMHU provided a brief overview of the bargaining process, with a focus on the opening session of June 27, 2019.
To keep mail handlers informed about the negotiation process, here are more details about the controlling procedures. The Postal Reorganization Act of 1970 (PRA) continues to govern the way the U.S. Postal Service engages with the postal unions. Under the provisions of this law, bargaining generally progresses as follows: Collective bargaining is initiated when one party to the contract serves the other a written notice of an attempt to modify the current agreement. Article 39 of our National Agreement requires this notice to be served “not less than 90 nor more than 120 days” before contract expiration.
Note that our current contract is scheduled to expire on September 20, 2019, and the NPMHU thus notified the USPS about our desire to modify the contract in early June. The goal of both parties will be to agree in a timely manner, through good-faith negotiations, to changes to the existing contract proposed by one or both sides. Should a tentative agreement be reached between the parties, it will then be subject to ratification in a vote (through mail ballot) by the membership of the NPMHU. If a tentative agreement is reached in September, the mail ballots would likely be distributed in October 2019.
In the words of President Hogrogian during the opening of bargaining: “If management makes reasonable proposals and counterproposals at the bargaining table, we certainly will recommend ratification to our membership. We also hope for and expect the same attitude from postal management – that reasonable proposals from the Union will be met with acceptance.” However, if the parties are unable to reach a tentative agreement to amend their contract, the PRA provides the parties with several pathways for moving forward.
The most common course of action taken by the parties is to adopt dispute resolution procedures on their own. In the ground rules for 2019 bargaining, both parties agreed to have their respective lawyers discuss the adoption of dispute resolution procedures. If the parties cannot agree on these, then they must defer to the provisions in the PRA. The PRA procedure contains several steps, summarized here: 1. The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) will establish a 3-person fact-finding panel. The NPMHU and USPS will each select a member from a list of 15 names provided by the FMCS. The third person will be jointly selected, or, if an agreement cannot be reached, by the Director of the FMCS.
The fact-finding panel has 45 days in which to investigate the disputes of bargaining and issue a report of its findings. 2. Should an agreement not be reached after fact-finding, the PRA requires that an arbitration board be established within 90 days of the contract’s expiration. This board also typically consists of 3 members – one appointed by the Union, one by the Postal Service, and a neutral member. The neutral member is appointed either by agreement of the two other members, or by the Director of the FMCS in the case of disagreement. 3.
The arbitration board holds a hearing in which both parties present evidence. It must make a decision 45 days after its appointment, unless mutually extended. So, a final arbitration award would not be issued until at least 135 days after the contract expires—no earlier than February 2020. Arbitration decisions are “binding” and “conclusive,” meaning that both parties must accept them. This is why the NPMHU’s National President convenes a meeting of the Local Unions before even agreeing to enter the arbitration process. Continue to watch your bulletin boards and the National website for the latest information.
JUNE 27, 2019
NPMHU and USPS Present Opening Statements as National Negotiations Begin in Washington D.C.
The National Postal Mail Handlers Union bargaining team met with representatives of the U.S. Postal Service on June 27, 2019 to mark the official start of the collective bargaining process for a successor agreement to replace the 2019 National Agreement which is scheduled to expire on September 20, 2019.
The NPMHU is committed to making every reasonable effort to reach an agreement that is good for our members, good for the Postal Service, and good for the American mailing public.
The return of normal growth in the American economy should mean a return to more normalized collective bargaining. At the same time, a long period of downsizing, which absent legislative reform may have to continue in the coming years, also should be a time for the parties to agree on a period of relatively stable labor relations, without the massive disruptions and dislocations caused by the unwarranted closing of mail processing facilities, by unnecessary subcontracting or privatization, and by unjustified projects that are created and sponsored by a postal bureaucracy that seeks to explain its own existence,” said National President Paul Hogrogian.
The Mail Handlers Union remains deeply committed to the negotiating process. Certainly, the NPMHU will continue to work with the Postal Service so that Congress enacts postal reform legislation: to obtain relief from mandatory payments into the Retirees Health Benefit Fund; to allow for more rational investments of the monies already in that Fund; to integrate the postal health care system into Medicare; to expand the mailing and other services that the Postal Service offers to the American public; and to stop the unwise closings and consolidations of mail processing facilities.
But it is at the bargaining table where most other issues belong. We expect, and will demand, that the Postal Service engage in good-faith bargaining on all of the issues that are properly the subject of mutual bargaining. The NPMHU will put out periodic updates, in the form of bulletin board postings, as bargaining progresses.
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| 2019 CONTRACT UPDATE #1 |
Historically heavy rainfall in Los Angeles has delayed the highly anticipated, $2.6 billion stadium in Inglewood, California, by a year. The new facility, to be shared by the Rams and Chargers, will now open in 2020 instead of 2019.
In the meantime, the Rams will play at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for an additional year and the Chargers will have one more season at StubHub Center in Carson, California.
JUNE 18, 2019
With Regret and Sorrow - The National Union Announces the Passing of retired Regional Director Ed Gallagher
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It is with sadness that the National Union announces the passing of retired Regional Director Ed Gallagher. Ed was a dedicated unionist who unselfishly served the members of our organization at the Local and National level for many years. Ed served as Administrative Vice President and Pennsylvania State Executive Board Member for Local 308 before his appointment to the Contract Administration Department as Regional Representative. Ed served as Eastern Regional Director until his retirement.
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MAIL HANDLERS HOST 9TH BIENNIAL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE
Mail Handlers Host 9th Biennial Legislative Conference
In June 2019, more than one hundred mail handlers from across the country gathered in Washington, DC to participate in the NPMHU’s biennial Legislative Conference for the 116th Congress. The two-day conference was filled with significant programs and activities.
The first day of the conference included a full training program, with a host of speakers and panel discussions highlighting both the substance of USPS issues now facing Congress and the methods used by successful lobbyists. National President Paul Hogrogian, National Secretary-Treasurer Michael Hora, and Director of Political & Legislative Affairs Bob Losi opened the program by highlighting the importance of the NPMHU’s representation on Capitol Hill, noting in particular that year-round legislative and political involvement must be part of the commitment made by all NPMHU activists.
President Hogrogian spoke about the importance of remaining politically active, especially during difficult times. Hogrogian spoke about the NPMHU’s objections to anti-union legislation that could impede our ability to collect union dues, bargain collectively, and utilize union time when defending mail handlers. He also addressed the importance of securing favorable postal reform legislation. “This is not a new fight,” said Hogrogian. “Postal reform was introduced late in the 114th Congress and again in the 115th, but the parties were unable to get a consensus bill to the floor.”
Any successful reform legislation must include several key components, notably including reforms to the retiree health benefits funding methodology, restoration of the recently expired exigent rate increase, and Medicare Integration for retired FEHBP postal enrollees and annuitants. “It is important for our elected officials to know where the Mail Handlers stand on this legislation,” said Hogrogian. The program also included appearances by Liz Shuler, Secretary-Treasurer, AFL-CIO; J. David Cox, President, American Federation of Government Employees; Robert G. Taub, Chairman, Postal Regulatory Commission; and Terry O’Sullivan, International President, LIUNA. Yvette O’ Sullivan, Executive Director, LIUNA and Jose Ceballos, Government Affairs Director, NATCA also joined NPMHU Legislative and Political Director Bob Losi in a panel discussion on the state of politics in 2019, including a review of 2018’s key Gubernatorial, House, and Senate races.
The NPMHU also was honored to present several key representatives from other unions and associations with whom the NPMHU coordinates its legislative efforts, including Paul Swartz, Director, Governmental Affairs, NRLCA; Katie Maddocks, Legislative Representative, APWU; and Robert Levi, Legislative Director, NAPS. Katie, Paul, and Bob conducted a panel discussion on current legislative issues and postal finances, and gave suggestions for how such issues could be effectively lobbied by NPMHU representatives. In addition, Robert Levi and Bob Losi joined Robert Primus, Chief of Staff for Congresswoman Nanette Diaz Barragan (D-CA) for a panel discussion on how to lobby members of Congress.
The conference also heard from a host of experts on the postal issues that currently are being debated in the nation’s capital. Among the featured speakers were:
(a) Congressman Gerald E. Connolly (D-VA), a senior member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform and the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations. In this latter role, Connolly is responsible for shaping government-wide policy for a broad range of issues, including federal workforce and federal agency oversight, regulatory reform, and the U.S. Postal Service, to highlight a few. He also is a co-sponsor of H. Res. 33.
(b) Senator Tom Carper (D-DE), a senior member on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, who also served as the Committee’s chairman in the 113th Congress and ranking member in the 114th Congress. In his continued work on the committee, he focuses on protecting our country from threats to our national security, as well as ensuring federal government programs are efficient and using taxpayer dollars wisely. Senator Carper continues to champion postal reform with the goal of protecting the U.S. Postal Service from collapse and ensuring it remains a robust American institution for generations to come.
(c) Postal Regulatory Commission Chairman Robert G. Taub, who is serving a second term on the Commission, having been twice confirmed by the United States Senate, following his respective nominations by the President. His current term expires on October 14, 2022. Before his designation by the President as Chairman, he was Acting Chairman from December 2014 to December 2016, and Vice Chairman for 2013. Chairman Taub has more than 30 years of experience in public service. When first appointed as a Commissioner in October 2011, Mr. Taub was the Special Assistant to Secretary of the Army John M. McHugh.
The second day of the conference allowed all of the newly-trained mail handlers to meet with Members of Congress and their professional staff. Prior to heading up to the Hill for their scheduled appointments, all conference attendees were inspired by LIUNA General President Terry O’ Sullivan’s message of empowerment.
Throughout these meetings, mail handlers expressed their support for: H. Res. 60 – In support of appropriate measures to restore service standards in effect as of July 1, 2012; H. Res. 33 – In support of measures to ensure that the United States Postal Service remains an independent establishment of the Federal Government and is not subject to privatization; H. Res. 23 -- Supporting measures to ensure the continuation of door delivery for all business and residential customers; and H. Res. 54 – Supporting the continuation of 6-day mail delivery service. In addition, the NPMHU supports H.R. 2382, the USPS Fairness Act, legislation that, if passed, would end the prefunding burden for the Retiree Health Benefits Fund that was placed upon USPS finances when the Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act (PAEA) was passed in 2006. Other than an overall postal reform bill, this legislation is exactly what the doctor ordered to put the Postal Service on the road to growth and prosperity in the future.
These bills and resolutions will be described in more detail in the upcoming summer edition of the Mail Handler magazine. The day of direct lobbying ended with a reception, held in the Rayburn House Office Building, at which various Members of Congress and professional staff stopped by to discuss issues relevant to the NPMHU and all mail handlers in a more relaxed setting. Not only were NPMHU elected leaders and scores of mail handlers able to share their views on pending issues throughout the day, but relationships forged during the conference will prove helpful during the coming weeks and months as postal issues continue to occupy center stage on the legislative agenda.
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Local 303 President Eddie Cowan and Vice President Juan Torres meet with Congressman
Lou Correa from CA-46th District
Mail Handler Assistants to Receive Wage Increase effective on May 25, 2019
Effective May 25, 2019- In accordance with Article 9.7 of the 2016 National Agreement between the NPMHU and the Postal Service, all Mail Handler Assistants will receive an hourly wage increase of $0.21 per hour effective on Saturday, May 25, 2019.
This is the sixth MHA wage increase occurring during the 2016 National Agreement. The 21 cent per hour increase raises the Level 4 MHA hourly rate to $16.21 and the Level 5 MHA hourly rate to $17.07, which is an increase of approximately 1.3% and 1.2% respectively.
These additional increases were included in the 2016 National Agreement to help close the current gap between MHAs and career employees and to reduce attrition amongst MHAs.
MEMORIAL DAY IS MONDAY MAY 27, 2019
"Patriotism consists not in waving the flag,
but in striving that our country shall be righteous as well as strong."
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
This Memorial Day weekend, many of us will spend time with friends and family and enjoying a day off that marks the transition to summer. But while we have a holiday, tens of thousands of brave men and women in the Armed Services – including many LIUNA members – will have no respite. They and their families accept daily hardships and dangers in order to protect our democracy and freedom.
We owe these patriotic men and women, some of whom made the ultimate sacrifice, losing their lives in defense of our nation, a debt of gratitude. This weekend, take a moment to reflect and honor all those who have served. As we do so, let us also continue to build a stronger LIUNA and country, so that returning veterans have opportunities to prosper when their service has ended.
On behalf of myself and the entire LIUNA General Executive Board, I wish each and every one of you an enjoyable and meaningful Memorial Day.
MAY 9, 2019
NPMHU Relocating National Headquarters
The Mail Handlers National Headquarters is relocating on May 18, 2019. Anything mailed to the National Office, on or after May 10, 2019, should be sent to the new address. This is a permanent move, all documents referencing the national office address should be updated to reflect the new address. After May 10, 2019, please direct all correspondence to the National Office at the following address:
National Postal Mail Handlers Union
815 16th Street NW
Suite 5100
Washington DC 20006
| IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT ADDRESS CHABGE |
MAY 6, 2019
NPMHU Releases Details on RI-399 Payments
As previously announced, the Update MOU on RI-399 that was signed by the NPMHU, the APWU, and the Postal Service in June 2018 included a monetary payment to individual Mail Handlers. Here are the details, except for the payment date, which is still to be determined.
In order to be eligible for payment, a Mail Handler had to be in the NPMHU Bargaining Unit (Career or MHA) and on the rolls of the Postal Service during the Pay Period which ended on September 1, 2017 AND the Mail Handler has to be in the NPMHU Bargaining Unit (Career or MHA) and on the rolls of the Postal Service during the Pay Period which ended on March 15, 2019.
Any action taken by the Mail Handler after March 15, 2019 (e.g., retirement, transfer, resignation) is not considered.
A) If eligible, and in the Bargaining Unit for less than 5 years (as of September 1, 2017), the Mail Handler will receive 1 Share.
B) If eligible, and in the Bargaining Unit for 5 years or more but less than 10 years (as of September 1, 2017), the Mail Handler will receive 2 Shares.
C) If eligible, and in the Bargaining Unit for 10 years or more but less than 20 years (as of September 1, 2017), the Mail Handler will receive 3 Shares.
D) If eligible, and in the Bargaining Unit for 20 years or more (as of September 1, 2017), the Mail Handler will receive 4 Shares.
There are more than 38,000 eligible Mail Handlers, and the Share amounts are as follows:
1 Share = $143.90
2 Shares = $287.80
3 Shares = $431.70
4 Shares = $575.60
Once the actual date for distribution of these monies is set, the National Office will announce that date to all Locals and to all Mail Handlers.
In addition, the National Office will establish a union-run appeal procedure for claims to be filed by ineligible Mail Handlers who believe they should have been listed amongst the eligible and by eligible Mail Handlers who believe they did not receive the proper number of Shares authorized. The decisions made by this appeal procedure will be final and binding, and will cause distributions of additional monies.
| RI-399 MONETARY PAYMENTS |
01 APRIL 2019
Local 303 Mighty Mail Handlers
Things are shaping up nicely throughout the Local. Membership is on the rise and we continue to see increases in transfers and conversions. The shining starts for both conversations and transfers are LAS VEGAS as usual, and surprisingly LAX- ISC. A special shout out to Branch Presidents Bill Roux, and Greg Harris for those facilities.
The Branch President's and I are working diligently to get tripartite agreements solidified among USPS management, the APWU, and the NPMHU regarding each facility’s inventory. The inventory document recognizes what craft does what work, and each party does their best to gain the most work for their craft. USPS would rather see the unions fight against each other so that management looks like the winner in any dispute over craft work. That is not happening in the majority of this Local. The last time our facilities did an Inventory was over 27 years ago in 1992. You can imagine what has changed over the years, and now you will see it for yourself and feel the impact the new inventories will have on the Mail Handler craft.
Now that the Inventories are being signed off please take a few minutes and go to the Local website (npmhulocal303.org) and look at your facility page by clicking on the 303 Home Tab, then the E-Board Tab, and under Local Council find your branch).
Local 303 will be posting all completed branch Inventories so that you can know what is Mail Handlers work, and more importantly what work APWU crafts cannot perform. You will be surprised at the amount of work clerks are now doing that is clearly mail handler work. This will be just one example of where we must file grievances and force management to hire more MHAs, convert current MHAs, and get monetary compensation at the overtime rate for cross craft work.
The APBS/ SPBS, or old school bundle sorter: Whenever you are running priority mail and have sacks management will usually staff the machine with too many clerks. The maximum number of clerks that can sweep at the APBS is 3. Not 3 on both sides, or any other statement that you may hear management say. It is agreed that if management needs additional sweepers it needs to be a mail handler. Also, at the APBS clerks can never cull or dump. Mail Handlers need to write witness statements so our craft can get paid.
On Another note:
During my required facility visits as Local President I recently visited the Las Vegas plant where I met up with a senior mail handler who had a great observation about union pay over the years and wants to make sure Las Vegas remains 100% union. Mr. Finkler provided a pay stub from pp 13 1978 where he was making $7.59 and hour and how he is grateful he now collects $28.92 an hour thanks to Union negotiations. That's continuous progress!
LET US ALL STAY UNION STRONG!
MARCH, 1, 2019
RI-399 Update- Monetary Payment Criteria Finalized
On June 26, 2018, the NPMHU, the APWU and the United States Postal Service executed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding ("Update MOU") to update the RI-399 Dispute Resolution Procedures that were originally signed in 1992.
With certain exceptions, the MOU effectively withdrew and administratively closed all cross-craft grievances that were pending in the RI- 399 process prior to September 1, 2017. The Update MOU also provides monetary payments to mail handlers and clerks in consideration of the withdrawal of these grievances.
The parties have agreed that $14,500,000 will be distributed among mail handlers designated by the NPMHU. The parties also agreed that the APWU represented employees will be similarly compensated.
The NPMHU National Executive Board has approved a detailed criteria to determine which mail handlers will receive payments as well as the amount that each eligible mail handler will receive. For full details, read the March 1, 2019 memorandum linked below.
FEBRUARY 28, 2019
NPMHU Supports Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
February 14, 2019 - NPMHU's solicitation of financial support (pdf)
NPMHU Headquarters staff come together for JDRF kick-off!
NPMHU Headquarters staff come together for JDRF kick-off!
On Sunday, June 2, 2019, thousands of walkers representing local businesses, families, schools, Unions and other organizations will gather on the National Mall in Washington D.C. to participate in the annual JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes.
The walk begins 10:00 A.M. with registration tables open beginning 9:00 A.M. The National Postal Mail Handlers Union has been a sponsor and a participant of the JDRF Walk to cure diabetes for over 21 years and we will continue to walk until Type One becomes Type None! If you can't make it in person, we still need your support.
Please visit the Mail Handlers JDRF One Walk team page and donate today.
FEB 6, 2019
Field Negotiating Committee Meets at NPMHU Headquarters
With formal negotiations between the NPMHU and the Postal Service over the terms of the 2019 National Agreement scheduled to begin in June 2019, preparations for bargaining are moving forward in the National Office.
One critical aspect of those preparations is now underway, as the Field Negotiating Committee is meeting in the NPMHU's National Headquarters February 4-8, 2019. During those meetings, hundreds of potential bargaining proposals — previously submitted by members, stewards, officers, and Local Unions across the country — are being reviewed and analyzed by the Committee.
FEB 4, 2019
Michael Hora Sworn in as National Secretary-Treasurer
On Monday, February 4, 2019, LIUNA General President Terry O’Sullivan was on hand at NPMHU Headquarters in Washington, DC to officiate at the ceremony to install Michael J Hora as NPMHU National Secretary-Treasurer. Brother Hora was honored to be joined by President Hogrogian, the National Executive Board and spouse Carol Hora.
Also, in attendance were NPMHU Headquarters staff and the 2019 Field Negotiating Committee.
"I am honored by the support shown to me by the Board. I will work hard to serve the membership to the best of my abilities," said NST Hora.
Brother Hora has been a Mail Handler for more than thirty-three years and has served the members of the NPMHU in a wide variety of positions and assignments. Before transitioning to the National Office in 2011, Brother Hora served as shop steward, arbitration advocate, and both Vice President and President of Local 321 in Denver, Colorado for more than four terms of office.
Before accepting a full-time assignment at NPMHU National Headquarters, Hora served as a member of the Committee on the Future, on the Resolutions and Constitution Committees at several NPMHU National Conventions, and on the 2006 and 2011 Field Negotiating Committees in preparation for those rounds of national negotiations. Upon his initial appointment to Washington, DC, Brother Hora served as a National Representative in the Contract Administration Department, as Executive Director of the NPMHU-sponsored health plan known as the Mail Handlers Benefit Plan, and finally as Assistant to the past two National Secretary-Treasurers.
JANUARY 10, 2019
Unions Rally to Protest the Continuing Government Shutdown
The NPMHU, with more than thirty other labor unions rallied to protest the continuing shutdown and resulting furloughs that are financially hurting 800,000 federal employees and families. The rally, hosted by the National Federation of Federal Employees began at AFL-CIO headquarters in Washington, D.C. and concluded with an energetic march to the White House after keynote speakers, including furloughed federal employees, Union Leaders, and Members of Congress.
Among the speakers were House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD), Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD), Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) and Sen Bernie Sanders (I-VT).
Attendees were energized to hear from AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka and AFGE President J. David Cox to name a few. The rally concluded at the White House where marchers chanted in support of federal employees.
“The message is simple,” said President Hogrogian, “Stop using federal employees as pawns, reopen the government today.” The NPMHU stands with our fellow federal union brothers and sisters.
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CLICK ON PICTURES ABOVE FOR VIDEO
JANUARY 7, 2019
Update on Government Shutdown
Impact of Federal Government Shutdown on Mail Handlers
As all Mail Handlers know, the U.S. Postal Service remains open and operational during the Federal Government shutdown that started on December 22, 2018. Here is a listing of other federal agencies or services of most interest to Mail Handlers.
National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) – The NLRB was fully funded through October 1, 2019 in September 2018, and therefore remains open and operational.
U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) – The DOL is fully funded and operational.
Office of Workers' Compensation (OWCP) – Employees at OWCP will continue to work during the shutdown, and therefore little impact is expected.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – As a component of the DOL, OSHA remains fully operational during this government shutdown.
Health Insurance (FEHB) - No impact expected, although new enrollments or changes in coverage, for example because of a Qualifying Life Event, may be delayed at the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). The effective date for any change would still be the first day of the first full pay period in January.
FEDVIP – If you are enrolled in the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), your coverage will continue during the government shutdown.
FSAFEDS – Your Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS) payroll allotments should not be affected, but if you have questions about how the shutdown impacts your FSAFEDS enrollment or claims, please contact WageWorks, Inc. (who administers these processes for FSAFEDS).
Retirement (CSRS or FERS) – Retirement Services at the Office of Personnel Management are funded by the Trust Fund, not by annual appropriations, so these employees will still be working normal hours during the government shutdown.
Life Insurance (FEGLI) – No impact expected. Coverage continues for 12 consecutive months in a nonpay status without cost to the employee or to the agency. Neither the employee nor the agency incurs a debt during this period of nonpay.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) – The TSP will continue its normal daily operations during the federal government shutdown.
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) – The EEOC is currently closed because of the federal government shutdown. While the federal government is closed, a limited number of EEOC services are available. Please note during the shutdown, the EEOC is not able to staff toll-free numbers: 1-800-669-4000 (voice); 1-800-669-6820 (TTY); or 1-844-234-5122 (ASL Video Phone). If you are trying to contact the EEOC, or have existing business with the agency, please refer to https://www.eeoc.gov/shutdown.cfm.
Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) – The processing of all appeals and other pleadings is suspended, regardless of whether such matters are pending in a Regional or Field Office, before the full Board in Washington, DC, or before an administrative law judge. No personnel are available in any MSPB office to answer inquiries during the entirety of a shutdown. MSPB’s e-Appeal Online system also is not available.
MSPB understands that this situation requires adjusting certain deadlines and other processing requirements in many appeals. Therefore, all filing and processing deadlines will be extended by the number of calendar days MSPB is shut down. This extension applies to all deadlines before the MSPB, including those at the initial appeal and petition for review levels.
Because the extension is automatic, parties are not required to show good cause and should not request an extension. This extension applies to deadlines in all matters before the Board, even if they involve agencies or employees who are not otherwise affected by this partial shutdown of the Federal Government. This automatic extension does not apply, however, to any deadlines that passed before the date of the shutdown.
Memorandum to Local Presidents (pdf)
DECEMBER 13, 2018
NPMHU Hosts Finance Management Seminar
for Local Presidents and Treasurers
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The NPMHU’s Local leadership participated in a comprehensive Finance Management Seminar at the Maritime Conference Center in Linthicum Heights, MD.
The three-day session included presentations and group discussions on a wide variety of topics related to financial administration at the Local Union level, including: the fiduciary duties and responsibilities of Local Union Presidents and Treasurers; IRS and DOL issues and reporting requirements; budgeting; financial statements; records management; annual audits; payroll issues; and more.
The third day of training was dedicated to using QuickBooks™ computer software as a tool to easily organize the daily financial activities of the Local Union. This training will help facilitate necessary reporting to fellow officers and union membership, as well to assist in preparing the reports required by the Department of Labor and the Internal Revenue Service.
DECEMBER 3, 2018
December 5, 2018 Declared National Day of Mourning
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NOVEMBER 9, 2018
NPMHU, APWU and USPS Come Together for Historic RI399 Training
November 8-9, 2018 – Over 150 mail handlers who serve on their respective Local Dispute Resolution Committees (LDRC) gathered in Las Vegas, NV with an equal number of their USPS and APWU counterparts for the first gathering of two joint training sessions conducted by the members of the National Dispute Resolution Committee (NDRC) on the newly signed Updated MOU on RI-399 Dispute Resolution Procedures.
The MOU was issued in June 2018. This historic MOU comes 26 years after the original Dispute Resolution Procedures (DRP) were issued in 1992 and marks an important milestone in the history of RI-399 and the process for addressing jurisdictional disputes between the NPMHU-represented mail handlers and APWU-represented clerks.
Members of the NDRC plan to conduct five joint sessions in total, training over 1,500 LDRC members across the country. The parties are optimistic that the training will help ensure proper implementation of the Updated RI399 procedures.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE NPMHU WOMEN'S COMMITTEE
Women’s Committee Contact Information
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(l-r/ back row) Yvette Johnson -Local 300 Vice President, Felandria Jackson - Local 305 President, Joyce Weber - Local 318 Treasurer and Teresa Harmon -- CAD Manager
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The mission of the NPMHU Women's Committee is to encourage, recruit, and engage women of all backgrounds to join and be active in the National Postal Mail Handlers Union and the entire labor movement. We want to strengthen our sisters and help them achieve a better standard of living for themselves and their families!Women's Committee polo shirts now available: $38-$40
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OCTOBER 31, 2018
PMG Megan Brennan Shows Appreciation in Royal Palm P&DC
(October 29-30, 2018) Postmaster General Megan Brennan held several town hall meetings with the mail handlers and all other postal employees at the Royal Palm P&DC in Opa Locka, Florida.
The Postmaster gave her thanks and respectful appreciation for the valuable work performed by all during the horrific and dangerous week of October 22nd in which bombs were discovered at the Royal Palm P&DC.
Opa Locka’s dedicated mail handlers remained vigilant in providing continued service to our nation during these difficult times.
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OCTOBER 26, 2018
PMG Brennan Issues Statement Calling for Continued Vigilance
Over the past week, the men and women of the United States Postal Service and the Postal Inspection Service responded quickly and effectively to the threat of suspicious packages in the mail stream. We worked closely with local and federal law enforcement partners to protect our employees, customers and the American public, and to speed the investigation and apprehension of the perpetrator. We are especially pleased that there have been no injuries. This is a testament to the hard work of our postal employees who were vigilant and aided in these investigations. While there has been an arrest, we must remain alert and continue to follow our established suspicious mail protocols. We remain focused on our mission to keep the mail safe and secure for everyone.
| SUSPICIOUS ITEMS (EXERCISE CAUTION) STANDUP TALK (10/26/18) |
LOCAL 303 PRESIDENT EDDIE COWAN AND OTHER UNION ACTIVISTS INFO PICKET WITH CONGRESSMAN JIMMY GOMEZ (D) CA-34TH DISTRICT
NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION OCTOBER 8, 2018
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SEPTEMBER 19, 2018
On Columbus Day (Monday, Oct. 8), NALC, the American Postal Workers Union (APWU), the National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association and the National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU) are planning to hold rallies in each congressional district to demonstrate against any effort to privatize the U.S. Postal Service.
The “U.S. Mail: Not for Sale” rallies result from increased grassroots interest from communities around the country that oppose privatizing the Postal Service.
The NPMHU encourages mail handlers and their friends and families to participate in these rallies. For more information and to find an event near you, please visit npmhu.org.
| OCT 2018 NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION FLYER.pdf |
AUGUST 19, 2018
DON'T ADD INSULT TO INJURY ARTICLE
SUBMITTED BY CALIFORNIA STATE EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER DAVID CASTILLO
AUGUST 11, 2018
$645 COLA effective in September 2018
Effective Pay Period 19, September 01, 2018, career Mail Handler craft employees are scheduled to receive the fifth of seven possible cost-of-living (COLA) adjustments as outlined in Article 9.3 of the 2016 National Agreement. This COLA increase is based on the upward change in the relevant Consumer Price Index (CPI) following release of the July 2019 Index, and provides an annual increase of $645 for all Steps in Table 1 and for Step P of Table 2. The remaining Steps in Table 2 will receive the proportional COLA increase percentages as outlined in Article 9.3 of the National Agreement.
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