Understanding VA Telework Rights and the Ongoing Grievance
The Union representing OIT employees at VA Central Office has formally filed a Step 3 grievance, highlighting a troubling pattern of deceitful conduct by management, particularly under Secretary McDonough’s leadership. This grievance addresses significant violations of the Master Agreement, the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute, and the Department’s own core values—issues that cannot be ignored.
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History of VA Telework Rights in the OIT
Since 2020, a group of 30 employees in the VA’s Office of Information and Technology (OIT) enjoyed a 50% telework arrangement, alternating weeks in the office and at home. Telework rights have been crucial in ensuring employee productivity, and this arrangement proved especially effective during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating that telework is a viable option for many roles.
However, in April 2024, management proposed to temporarily suspend this telework arrangement, assuring employees that it would be reinstated post-project. This promise turned out to be a façade. Without proper notice or the opportunity to bargain with the Union, management abruptly suspended telework, demanding that employees return to the office with little warning and under the threat of disciplinary action. The Union filed a grievance in May 2024, highlighting a blatant disregard for telework rights of employees and the Union’s role in representing them. Management’s actions not only violated the Master Agreement but also reflected a disturbing pattern of dishonesty and disrespect. Unsurprisingly, management denied the grievance, claiming that it had no duty to negotiate.
Recent Violations of Telework Rights
Unfortunately, management’s deceit did not end there. Management assured the Union in April 2024 that telework would resume on October 1, 2024, after the project’s completion. Yet, during a town hall meeting in August 2024, employees were informed that telework would be permanently discontinued, with exceptions only for “emergent situations.” This decision, communicated without notifying the Union, represents a direct violation of labor laws and telework rights, as well as the principles of fair representation. By unilaterally changing telework agreements without engaging in meaningful bargaining, management undermines the fundamental rights of employees and demonstrates a lack of integrity from leadership.
On October 29th, the Union filed a new grievance with OIT, alleging that management wrongfully refused to bargain over telework schedules. In light of these violations, the Union seeks a restoration of the previous telework arrangements, compensation for incurred travel expenses, and a commitment from management to engage in good faith bargaining moving forward. Telework rights should be respected, and management must acknowledge its obligations under the law, committing to transparent communication with all employees.
Union’s Fight for Telework Rights Under McDonough’s Leadership
This deceitful behavior and anti-union attitude should come as no surprise under our current leadership. Secretary McDonough has repeatedly claimed to support union values; however, his actions tell a different story. His administration has fostered an environment of distrust, dishonesty, and disregard for the principles of fair labor practices. The recent developments surrounding telework are indicative of a broader anti-union sentiment that has permeated the VA under his watch, directly impacting telework rights.
As McDonough prepares to leave office in the coming months, we echo a collective sentiment: good riddance. His tenure has been marked by a clear failure to honor commitments to employees and to uphold the Department’s stated values of integrity, commitment, advocacy, respect, and excellence.
Union’s Commitment to Uphold Telework Rights
The Union remains steadfast in its commitment to fight for the rights and dignity of all employees. We will not stand idly by while management undermines the very principles of collaboration and respect that should define our workplace. Telework rights are a cornerstone of fairness and employee welfare. As we move forward with this grievance, we call on all employees to remain vigilant and united in holding management accountable for its actions. Together, we will strive for a fair and just working environment for all.
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