Over the past year and more, AFGE Local 17 has been at the forefront of advocating for the telework rights of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees. Recognizing the changing landscape of work in the wake of the pandemic and the unique needs of VA staff, Local 17 has diligently pursued a campaign to secure and expand teleworking options. Our efforts highlight a deep commitment to ensuring that VA employees can enjoy the flexibility and benefits of telework, which has proven essential for balancing personal and professional responsibilities, especially in challenging times. Through strategic negotiations, public engagement, and direct action, Local 17 has championed the cause of telework, making it a central issue in their mission to protect and advance workers’ rights within the VA.
Highlighting Local 17’s Published Efforts on Telework Advocacy
“AFGE LOCAL 17 Happy Hour” (March 11, 2024):
This article celebrates the resilience and unity of VA employees at the AFGE Local 17 Happy Hour. An event designed to bolster the community spirit and highlight the ongoing struggle for telework protection, it’s a testament to the collective effort in advocating for employee rights amidst seasonal transitions.
“McDonough’s Telework Plan: More Office, Less Space for Flexibility” (February 26, 2024):
This article uncovers the stark differences between Secretary McDonough’s telework plan and Local 17’s proposal, emphasizing the union’s commitment to flexibility and adherence to the Master Agreement. It showcases Local 17’s steadfast opposition to policies that restrict telework freedoms, advocating for terms that genuinely benefit VA employees.
“Telework Tensions: Local 17’s Perspective on McDonough’s 50% In-Office Proposal” (December 19, 2023):
Local 17 provides a critical analysis of the ongoing negotiations over telework policies, illustrating the union’s tireless efforts to reach a fair compromise. The mention of mediation with a federal panel underscores the complex dynamics at play in safeguarding telework rights.
“AFGE Local 17 – Bar Deco Happy Hour Photos” (October 30, 2023):
Through engagement with Congressional members at a social event, Local 17 leverages every opportunity to advocate for VA employees’ telework rights. This event signifies the union’s proactive approach in garnering support from legislative bodies.
“Telework Survey Analysis and Report” (October 19, 2023):
This comprehensive survey analysis reveals the overwhelming preference of VA employees for telework, substantiating Local 17’s advocacy with hard data. The report highlights the union’s dedication to voicing the collective concerns and preferences of its members.
“VA Employees’ Telework Sentiments on ‘Future of Work’ Plans” (September 26, 2023):
By juxtaposing VA employees’ telework preferences against the proposed ‘Future of Work’ plans, Local 17 underscores the disconnect between employee desires and administrative policies, reinforcing the need for a telework model that reflects the workforce’s actual needs.
“AFGE Local 17 Defends Federal Teleworkers” (September 18, 2023):
In response to criticism of telework practices, Local 17 stands firm in defense of federal teleworkers, emphasizing the absence of evidence against telework fraud and advocating for continued telework flexibility.
“Oversight of Federal Agencies’ Post-Pandemic Telework Policies” (September 14, 2023):
Highlighting a critical discussion on telework policies, this article reflects Local 17’s engagement in broader conversations about the future of federal work environments, advocating for policies that accommodate the evolving needs of the workforce.
“VA Telework Plan: AFGE Local 17 Seeks Your Input!” (September 11, 2023):
Local 17’s call for employee feedback on the VA Telework Plan demonstrates the union’s commitment to democratic engagement and collective bargaining, ensuring that any telework policy reflects the genuine interests and concerns of VA employees.
“New White House Guidance on Federal Telework and Return-to-Office Policies” (May 3, 2023):
This article discusses the broader federal landscape of telework policies, with Local 17 evaluating new guidance against the backdrop of ongoing negotiations at the VA, showcasing the union’s role in a nationwide dialogue on telework.
“Navigating Remote Work Policy Changes: Insights from AFGE Local 17’s Town Hall” (April 27, 2023):
Local 17’s town hall meeting offers a platform for direct communication and strategizing on telework policies, illustrating the union’s efforts to engage with its members and negotiate effectively on their behalf.
“Grievance Regarding Changes to DETO program” (April 25, 2023):
Through formal grievances, Local 17 confronts policy changes that threaten telework rights, exemplifying the union’s readiness to use every available means to defend employee interests.
“Reentry Plans for Bargaining Unit Employees at VA Central Office” (May 13, 2022):
Local 17’s negotiations to secure a grace period for employees returning to the office demonstrate the union’s dedication to easing the transition back to in-person work, advocating for policies that recognize the challenges faced by employees.
“VA Calling Employees Back to The Office, But Not Full Time” (March 23, 2022):
By engaging with VA’s return-to-office plans, Local 17 ensures that telework remains a viable option for VA employees, striving for a balanced approach that accommodates the new normal of work life.
Each of these articles offers a unique perspective on the multifaceted efforts of AFGE Local 17 to safeguard and promote telework rights at the VA. Through public events, detailed analyses, direct negotiations, and formal grievances, Local 17 demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the well-being and preferences of VA employees, advocating for flexible, equitable work arrangements that reflect the realities of today’s workforce.