Arnold Scott, American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) District 6 Vice President appeared on the America’s Work Force Union Podcast and gave an update on the National Labor Relations Board’s decision regarding the AFGE’s contract negotiations with the Department of Veterans Affairs. He also spoke about President Joe Biden’s proposed 2023 budget and his hope for the reintroduced Richard J. Trumka PRO Act.
Scott was surprised by the NLRB’s decision to find the VA guilty on all complaints filed by the VA Unions Negotiation Council. The most concerning issue filed against the VA was a claim of bargaining in bad faith. The union also filed a complaint as VA management sought to reduce the AFGE's bargaining rights down to collaboration rights. Furthermore, the VA was found to be in violation of the existing Ross agreement.
As part of this Collective Bargaining Agreement process, the AFGE is seeking an 8.7 percent pay increase. However, in the President’s proposed 2023 budget, government employees will recieve only a 5.2 percent raise. Scott believes the best solution for all involved is for Congress to pass the FAIR Act, which would provide government employees with their desired 8.7% increase. He pointed out that government jobs pay roughly 23 percent less than similar jobs in the private sector.
Scott also touched on the reintroduced Richard J. Trumka PRO Act. Whether or not it gets passed, Scott wants politicians to pick a side on this bill. He hopes to see which politicians stand with workers and the working class and those who stand with the best interests of business. He hopes voters will hold those politicians who stand with businesses accountable at the polls during the 2024 election.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more.
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