National Agreement between SSA and AFGE: What You Need to Know
The Social Security Administration (SSA) and the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) have recently reached a new national agreement that will impact thousands of federal employees across the country. The agreement covers a wide range of topics, from pay and benefits to working conditions and employee rights. Here`s what you need to know about this important agreement.
Pay and Benefits
The national agreement includes a number of changes to pay and benefits for SSA employees. For example, the agreement provides for a 2.5% pay increase for all eligible employees, which will be retroactive to January 2021. In addition, the agreement increases the maximum amount of annual leave that employees can carry over from one year to the next, from 240 hours to 300 hours. This will allow employees to take more time off work without losing their accrued leave time.
Working Conditions
The national agreement also addresses working conditions for SSA employees. One of the key changes is the creation of a new telework program, which will allow eligible employees to work from home on a regular basis. This will provide employees with greater flexibility and work-life balance, while also saving the agency money on office space and other expenses.
Employee Rights
The national agreement also includes a number of provisions to protect the rights of SSA employees. For example, the agreement provides for greater protection against discrimination and harassment in the workplace. It also establishes new grievance procedures to help resolve disputes between employees and management more effectively.
Other Provisions
Finally, the national agreement includes a number of other provisions that are designed to improve the overall functioning of the SSA. For example, the agreement establishes a new Joint Labor-Management Committee, which will be responsible for identifying and addressing issues that affect the agency and its employees. The agreement also includes provisions to improve the safety and security of SSA employees and facilities.
In conclusion, the new national agreement between the SSA and AFGE will have a significant impact on thousands of federal employees across the country. From pay and benefits to working conditions and employee rights, the agreement includes a wide range of important changes that will help improve the lives of SSA employees. If you`re an SSA employee, be sure to review the agreement carefully and stay informed about any additional changes that may be implemented in the future.