USE Newsletter - TA Update & Common Question Answered
Dear USE Members –
Ballots have been sent out and the count date is Monday at 3pm. Below are the provisions of the TA reached with management. If you have any questions about the TA, please reach out to a member of the Negotiating Committee (John Perry, Beth Deprospero, Kimberley Chaput, Paula Mastrangelo, or a USE officer Megan Havern and Theresa O’Donnal) for any questions or additional information.
1. Duration: 1 year
2. Expiration: September 30, 2026
3. Pay Increase: 3% to every pay step
4. Set IN-Person negotiations dates: The parties agree to meet in person at a minimum of two weeks including July 14-16 and August 11-13. These dates may be revised by mutual agreement.
5. Section 8: Grievance Time Limits: A. Clarify time limits by inserting the word “working” before “days”
6. Metrocheck 19.B. -
An employee who works at the International Office is eligible for $100 of Metrochecks per month, if he/she/they forgoes the parking in A. above.
If an employee can substantiate that they spend in excess of $100 utilizing the metro to commute to work, then they will be eligible for up to that increased amount reimbursement up to and additional $50 per month.
The employee must substantiate the transportation fare via the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA.com) and submit the number of days in the DC office per month.
We have had a couple of questions about “WHAT happens if the TA fails?”
If the TA fails, then USE will secure a multi-week extension with AFA management and take the following actions: Survey the members about why the TA failed, most likely take a strike vote, and hold multiple membership meetings to discuss the situation. We would have to consider ways to increase our leverage and we will go back to management to continue negotiations. In no case would a strike happen immediately.
I hope this communication addresses the questions that we have received. Please feel free to call or email with any questions or concerns you might have.
In solidarity,
Paula Mastrangelo
Megan Havern
Theresa O’Donnal
