IFPTE.org - International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers

President Obama Signs Labor/Management Executive Order
President Obama signed an Executive Order today calling for Labor/Management Forums throughout the Federal Government, and has named IFPTE as one of four unions to hold a permanent labor seat on the National Council on Federal Labor-Management Relations. Read IFPTE'S release. (12/09/09) Congress Adopts 2.0% Pay Raise for Federal Employees
Congressional Appropriators approved the first phase of year-end spending by bundling six of the unfinished Fiscal Year 2010 spending bills into an Omnibus package, which included funding for a 2.0% pay raise for civil service workers. Read IFPTE's release. (12/09/09)

IFPTE Submits Recommendations to CJS Committees
As appropriators finalize CJS spending measure, IFPTE weights-in with NASA spending recommendations. Read President Junemann's letter to CJS Chairpersons Mikulski and Mollohan. (11/24/09)

IFPTE Joins Coalition to Bolster Telework
IFPTE, along with six other unions, applauds and extends a helping hand to OPM Director Berry for his efforts to expand telework across the federal government. Read the Coalition letter and the Federal Daily article. (11/16/09)

TVA Scientists, Engineers and Technicians Represented by the Engineering Association Affiliate with IFPTE
Download the IFPTE press release and read the news stories announcing the affiliation of the Engineering Association (EA) with America’s fastest growing union, the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers. (11/12/09)
• Press Release PDF
• AFL-CIO News Story
• GovernmentExecutive.com News Story

IFPTE Local 2001, SPEEA Calls Out Boeing for Continued Reckless Business Practices
Read SPEEA Executive Director Ray Goforth’s piece that appeared in the Seattle Times regarding Boeing’s latest unethical, and fiscally reckless business decision to relocate one 787 line to South Carolina. Seattle Times Editorials / Opinion. (11/03/09)

IFPTE Calls on Congress to Approve the next generation of Amtrak Locomotives
Read the IFPTE letter to appropriators asking for funding through the Fiscal Year 2010 Transportation appropriations measure for the acquisition of 54 new locomotives. Read the letter. (11/02/09)

Spirit AeroSystems Shipping Jobs out of Wichita
IFPTE Calls on Kansas Congressional Delegation to Stand Up for Spirit Workers. Read the letter. (10/29/09)

President Obama Puts the Final Nail in the Coffin of NSPS by Signing the FY10 Defense Authorization Act
Today’s signing by President Obama of the FY10 Defense Authorization bill marks a significant victory for IFPTE’s Private Sector, Federal membership. See IFPTE Response. (10/28/09)

IFPTE Responds to Release of Augustine Report
IFPTE issued a statement praising the spaceflight options and condemning the anti-government rhetoric in response to yesterday's release of the final reports of the presidential committee chartered to review U.S. spaceflight plans. Read our release. (10/23/09)

IFPTE Expresses Extreme Caution with Impending Augustine Committee Report
In anticipation of the release of the Augustine Committee report to potentially chart the future direction of NASA’s work, IFPTE responded to problematic public comments by Augustine committee members. Read President Junemann’s letter to Norm Augustine, the committee chair. (10/21/09)

IFPTE and Labor Draws Line in the Sand on Health Insurance Overhaul Legislation
While holding firm in support for single payer health care, IFPTE joins American labor in sending a message to the Senate that if, at a minimum, the final health insurance overhaul bill does not provide for a public plan, fails to include an employer mandate, and taxes current health benefits, the union will formally oppose the final product. Read the letter. (10/19/09)

IFPTE Applauds President Obama on Winning Nobel Peace Prize
IFPTE President Junemann say’s this achievement “is reflective of the world’s recognition of the American people for electing Barack Obama to lead our nation.” Read IFPTE's press release. (10/09/09)

Defense Authorizers Put the Final Nail in the Coffin of NSPS
House Armed Services Committee members finalized the FY10 Defense Authorization bill, which included IFPTE backed language to fully repeal the National Security Personnel System (NSPS), fix retirement inequities, funding for the alternate engine to the Joint Strike Fighter, and will allow federal workers under FERS to apply unused sick leave credits toward their retirement. Read IFPTE's press release. (10/07/09)

Shipyard Unions Thank Shea-Porter for Ending Pay System
IFPTE Eastern Area VP Mark Nelson, Local 4 President Mike Russo, along with union members from AFGE and Portsmouth Metal Trades give big thank yous to Representatives Shea-Porter’s terrific work in championing the repeal on NSPS. Read the article. (10/11/09)

Once and For All, Repeal NSPS
As lawmakers prepare to finalize the Fiscal Year 2010 Defense Authorization Bill, IFPTE President Junemann tells Congress to end the 7 year saga of NSPS. Read IFPTE's letter. (9/23/09) Landslide Victory at Legal Services Corporation
Join IFPTE Despite Union-Busting Campaign by Management
The professional non-managerial oversight staff of the Legal Services Corporation (LSC), a federally funded corporation charged with providing legal services to the poor, has voted by an overwhelming margin to join IFPTE. Read IFPTE's press release. (9/21/09)

IFPTE Responds to the Passing of Senator Kennedy
Senator Kennedy was an ‘Icon to Working People”. Read IFPTE's press release. (8/26/09)

Defense Business Board Releases NSPS Review
IFPTE Federal Area VPs Toyama and Nelson express disappointment with report’s key recommendation. Read IFPTE's press release. (8/25/09) Junemann, Shearon Re-Elected to Lead IFPTE
After four days of officer elections, committee meetings and the passage of many important policy resolutions, the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) 56th Constitutional Convention has come to a close. Read IFPTE's press release. (8/14/09)

IFPTE Supports Bipartisan Amendment to Defense Authorization Bill
A bipartisan amendment, sponsored by Senators Daniel Akaka and Susan Collins, to S. 1390, the FY10 Defense Authorization Bill, would address critical concerns facing the federal workforce. Read IFPTE's letter. (7/15/09) IFPTE Supports Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act
IFPTE sent a letter of support to the House of Representatives in support of H.R. 1256, the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act. (4/1/09)

DoD & OPM Call for a Halt to NSPS Conversions
DoD and OPM issued a joint statement calling for a suspension of any further conversions of DoD workers into the National Security Personnel System (NSPS). Read our release, and the Washington Post and Government Executive articles. (3/16/09)
Employee Free Choice Act Introduced in Congress
Legislation Boasts Bipartisan Congressional Support
IFPTE commends House Education and Labor Committee Chairman George Miller and Senator Tom Harkin for introducing the Employee Free Choice Act today. (3/10/09)

White House Releases FY10 Budget Blueprint
Budget Proposals Reflect Transparency, Sign of Economic Times
IFPTE applauds President Obama's responsible, pro-active, and transparent approach to government budgeting. Read our release. (2/26/09)

IFPTE Sends H.R. 1 Recommendations to Capitol Hill
IFPTE sent a list of recommendations to Capitol Hill as the House and Senate begin crafting a final conference report to reconcile their respective versions of H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. (2/11/09)

IFPTE Members Speak Out on Air Force's Decision to Offshore Tanker Contract
IFPTE members participated in an April 17th Press Conference on Capitol Hill with Washington and Kansas lawmakers in response to the Air Force's decision to offshore the $40 billion 767 Tanker contract to EADS/Airbus. See IFPTE members speak out here. (4/23/08)

IFPTE Endorses Durbin/Grassley H-1B and L-1 Visa Bill
Bipartisan Bill Aims to Reform Tech Worker Visa Programs
Senators Richard Durbin (D-IL) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced S. 887, The H-1B and L-1 Visa Reform Act, to combat fraud and abuse inherent in these U.S. high tech temporary worker programs. Read our release. (5/4/09) Senator Arlen Specter Switches Parties
Five-term Republican Senator Arlen Specter announced today that he will join the Democratic party. Read our response. (4/28/09) Junemann Testifies Before House Subcommittee
In testimony before the House Subcommittees on the Federal Workforce, Postal Service and District of Columbia, President Junemann discussed the state of the Federal workforce in a hearing titled, "Public Service in the 21st Century: An Examination of the State of the Federal Workforce." (4/22/09)

IFPTE, Others Hold Employee Free Choice Act Workers’ Rights Forum
IFPTE, the Metal Trades Council and the Maine AFL-CIO, will host a Workers’ Rights Forum on the Employee Free Choice Act in Eliot, Maine. Read our release. (4/15/09)

IFPTE Supports Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act
IFPTE sent a letter of support to the House of Representatives in support of H.R. 1256, the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act. (4/1/09)

DoD & OPM Call for a Halt to NSPS Conversions
DoD and OPM issued a joint statement calling for a suspension of any further conversions of DoD workers into the National Security Personnel System (NSPS). Read our release, and the Washington Post and Government Executive articles. (3/16/09) Employee Free Choice Act Introduced in Congress
Legislation Boasts Bipartisan Congressional Support
IFPTE commends House Education and Labor Committee Chairman George Miller and Senator Tom Harkin for introducing the Employee Free Choice Act today. (3/10/09)

Obama Administration Unveils Working Families Taskforce
President Also Signs Pro-Worker Executive Orders
President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden announced the creation of the White House Task Force on Middle-Class Working Families. This cabinet level task force will be chaired by Vice President Biden and is tasked with rebuilding America's middle-class by raising the living standards of working families. Read our press release. (1/30/09) Ledbetter Fair Pay Bill in Play Again
IFPTE Urges Reversal of Supreme Court Decision
IFPTE authored a letter to the Senate supporting the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Restoration Act, S.181, aimed at preserving the intent of the Equal Pay Act of 1963. (1/22/09)

IFPTE Endorses Solis As Secretary of Labor
In a letter to members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, IFPTE voiced support for Representative Hilda Solis to be confirmed as Secretary of Labor. Read the press release. (1/14/09)

IFPTE Supports Bridge Loan for Ailing Auto Industry
IFPTE authored a letter to Congress in support of a bridge loan for our ailing auto industry, in particular for the 3 million workers who would be negatively impacted without congressional assistance. (12/8/08)

IFPTE Supports President-Elect Obama's Call for Second Stimulus Package
In a letter to congressional leadership addressing the nation's precarious economic situation, IFPTE strongly supports President-elect Obama' s call for a second Economic Stimulus package. (11/13/08)

Obama Plan Would 'Revitalize' NASA
In a press release and a joint letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Leader Harry Reid, IFPTE strongly supported Senator Obama's call for Congress to take three urgent actions to revitalize the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). (9/24/08)

NSPS Regulations Released
IFPTE responds to the NSPS regulations published in the Federal Register. (9/29/08) Read our analysis of the Final Regulations. (10/3/08)

IFPTE Receives Letter from Senator Obama Regarding NSPS
In a letter to IFPTE, Senator Barack Obama expresses his support in our effort to reverse NSPS. Click here to view an article that appeared in the Washington Post detailing the failures of the NSPS. (9/18/08)
Enhanced Leave Bill Introduced in Congress
Senators Daniel Akaka (D-HI) and Mark Pryor (D-AR) jointly introduced S. 3665, a bill to enhance the annual leave for administrative law judges (ALJs), contract board of appeals judges (CBAJs), and Immigration Judges (IJs). Read the press release. (10/3/08)
Congress Adopts 3.9% Pay Raise for Federal/Military Personnel
IFPTE applauds Congress' passage of an equitable pay raise for federal and military personnel. (9/30/08)

IFPTE Commends today’s Pentagon Decision to Delay Tanker Contract
IFPTE President Gregory Junemann applauded Defense Secretary Gates for deciding to delay the Air Force Tanker competition until the new Administration takes office in January. See the IFPTE Press Release. (9/10/08)

IFPTE Submits Comments on Proposed NSPS Changes
IFPTE submitted its comments and recommendations in response to the proposed NSPS changes published in the Federal Register on May 22nd. (6/20/08)

IFPTE Calls on Congress to Force a Re-bid of K767 Tanker
After the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released its report citing significant flaws in the US Air Force's $35 billion contract award to EADS/Airbus to build America's next generation of aerial refueling tankers, IFPTE calls on Congress to force a re-bid. Read our release and GAO's detailed press release. (6/18/08)

White Paper Brings TRUE Transparency to Tanker Contract Decision
IFPTE released a comprehensive report on the U.S. Air Force (USAF) decision to award a foreign company the $35 billion contract to build America's next generation of aerial refueling tankers. Read the press release. (5/28/08)

Secretary-Treasurer Paul Shearon talks Tanker on Lou Dobbs. (6/2/08)

Senator Patty Murray encourages more people to Join The Fight. (6/16/08)

Read IFPTE's press release urging Senator McCain to bring transparency to his role in the Air Force's $35 Billion Tanker contract to French-based EADS/Airbus. (3/20/08)

Bipartisan NASA Reauthorization Bill Moves to House Floor
IFPTE penned a letter of support for HR 6063, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize NASA moving towards full House consideration today or tomorrow. The bill funds NASA approximately $1.8 billion above President Bush's FY2009 budget, with an additional $1 billion to address the gap in U.S. manned access to space. (6/11/08)

Davis, Kucinich Defend NASA's Workforce
IFPTE commends House Federal Workforce, Postal Service and District of Columbia Subcommittee Chairman Danny Davis and Committee member, Representative Dennis Kucinich, for supporting NASA's workforce through a letter to the House Science and Technology Committee correctly recognizing the ongoing damage that the administration continues to inflict on NASA's technical workforce. Read the press release. (6/5/08)

IFPTE Announces New Jersey Congressional Endorsements
Following the lead of the our Atlantic Council, IFPTE International has announced its endorsement of several of New Jersey's Congressional candidates. (6/2/08)

Toyama Calls on Congress to Fix Non-Foreign Area COLA for Federal Workers
Senator Daniel Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce and the District of Columbia Subcommittee, held a field hearing in Honolulu today entitled, "Non-Foreign COLA and Locality Pay." IFPTE VP and Local 121 President Ben Toyama provided testimony for the hearing outlining the pay and retirement disparities this issue is causing to IFPTE members and thousands of civil servants in non-foreign regions. (5/29/08)

Thirty House Members, IFPTE Seek Additional Funding for NASA
IFPTE added its support to a bi-partisan letter signed by thirty distinguished members of Congress requesting additional funding for NASA. (4/30/08)

IFPTE Supports McCaskill Amendment to HR 2881
IFPTE penned a letter to the Senate supporting an amendment to HR 2881, the FAA Reauthorization Bill, introduced by Senator Claire McCaskill. (4/30/08)

IFPTE Calls on Senate to Pass The Fair Pay Restoration Act
IFPTE sent a letter to Senators asking them to vote to support the Fair Pay Restoration Act to correct the May 2007 Supreme Court decision, making it nearly impossible for victims of pay discrimination to seek damages. (4/23/08)

Fair Pay Vote Defeated in Senate
IFPTE is disappointed that the 60 votes necessary to invoke cloture (stop a filibuster), and move to final Senate passage on the Fair Pay Restoration Act was unsuccessful. See how your Senators voted on cloture of the bill.

NOTE: Senator Reid's 'no' vote was a procedural maneuver typically turned to by Senate Leadership to allow him to revisit consideration of this bill. Senator Reid is a supporter of the bill and would have voted 'yes' to cloture if the Senate had 59 other affirmative votes. (4/24/08)

IFPTE Calls on Congress to Block the Offshoring of the Tanker Contract
Citing concerns ranging from national security to interference into the Pentagon's internal competitive process, IFPTE became the first organization, labor or otherwise, to formally request that Congress defund the outsourcing of the Air Force Tanker contract to EADS/Airbus. Read the letter from IFPTE President Junemann to Congressional appropriators, along with the IFPTE press statement. (4/8/08)

IFPTE Endorses HR 5683
IFPTE has endorsed HR 5683, legislation sponsored by Federal Workforce, Postal Service and District of Columbia Subcommittee Chairman Danny Davis, to bring better transparency to the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Read the letter to Congress authored by Jacqueline Harpp, IFPTE member and GAO Union Interim Council Representative. (4/8/08)

Local 20 Organizes Engineers at Diablo Canyon
By a vote of 102 to 47, 162 engineers at the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant voted to join IFPTE Local 20. This win, one of many for the Local in the last several years, has added the "crown jewel" of Pacific Gas & Electric's system to our family. Read the release. (4/3/08)

Four Unions will be Working Together in a New Strategic Alliance to Achieve Critical Economic, Political and Legislative Goals.
The Communications Workers of America (CWA), the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), the United Auto Workers (UAW) and the United Steelworkers (USW) have committed to sharing resources around the four key priorities for members of these unions and all working families: the Employee Free Choice Act, health care, jobs and fair trade, and retirement security. Read the release. (3/26/08)

IFPTE Calls on Senator McCain to Answer Five Key Questions Related to Tanker
On the eve of Senator McCain's visit to Paris, the home of Airbus, IFPTE posed five questions to the Senator in an effort to bring transparency to his role in the Air Force Tanker contract controversy. View the questions and related documents. (3/20/08)

IFPTE Responds to Tanker Decision
In a stunning move, the United States Air Force awarded their $40 Billion Refueling Tanker contract to the European-based Airbus/EADS. Read our press release. (2/29/08)

Watch Secretary-Treasurer Shearon on CNBC's Power Lunch as he expertly debates the issue. (3/3/08)

Junemann Testifies, Pay 4 Performance Subject of Congressional Hearing
President Junemann testified before the House Subcommittees on the Federal Workforce, Postal Service and District of Columbia on the issue of Pay for Performance. View his testimony. (2/12/08)

IFPTE Endorses Single Payer Health Care Bill
IFPTE heartily endorsed HR 676, the United States National Health Insurance Act, calling for a single payer health care system. The legislation is consistent with IFPTE Resolution #12 that unanimously passed in 2006 at the 55th Convention calling for our union to reaffirm its support for a universal or single-payer health care system. Read the release. (2/11/08)

From The SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS Section
NLRB Legal Decisions
AFL-CIO materials on NLRB decisions referenced in the 4th quarter issue of the IFPTE OUTLOOK. Backgrounder [PDF] and Decisions in Context [PDF] (2/5/08)

Bush's Budget Fails Workers, Hurts Most Vunerable
Workers, Children, Seniors--all would face devasting cuts to vital programs in President Bush's FY 2009 budget proposal. IFPTE penned two releases expressing our displeasure with this dismal proposal. Read the release on the overall budget proposal as well as cuts to NASA's budget. (2/5/08)

IFPTE Urges Congress to Provide a True Stimulus
While applauding lawmakers for providing targeted tax rebates to American taxpayers, IFPTE President Gregory Junemann warned Congress that the House Stimulus bill falls well short of what is required to jump start the economy. Read the letter. (1/29/08)

IFPTE Endorses Rep. Walter Jones
Today the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers formally announced its backing of Congressman Walter Jones (R-NC), who is seeking an eighth term to represent North Carolina’s 3rd Congressional District. Read the release. (1/15/08)

NASA Administrator Continues to Play Politics w/Airline Safety Study
IFPTE President Gregory Junemann provided Congress with the following, detailed, response to the NASA Administrator's December 31st press conference and release of the NAOMS data. See President Junemann's letter to Congress. (1/11/08)

FPTE Supports Akaka/Davis Partnership Bill
Legislation sponsored by Congressman Danny Davis and Senator Daniel Akaka titled, The Federal Labor-Management Partnership Act of 2007, calls for the creation of a Federal Labor-Management Partnership Council to provide a mechanism for cohesive labor-management relations. Read the press release. (10/23/07)

IFPTE Urges COLA for GAO
In a letter to Senate and House Legislative Branch Appropriations Chairs, IFPTE urged language be included in the final conference report providing for a Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA) for all GAO employees. (10/18/07)

IFPTE, UDWC Push to Include Bipartisan NSPS Defund Amendment
IFPTE and the UDWC sent letters to the DoD Appropriations Conferees asking for adoption of the bipartisan Inslee/Walter Jones/Van Hollen NSPS defund amendment into the final FY08 DoD Appropriations Conference Report. Adoption would effectively put an end to NSPS. (10/10/07)

IFPTE Calls for Federal Contracting Suspension of EADs/Airbus
IFPTE continues to be deeply distressed by the latest allegations that senior officials within the French-based defense contractor EADS/Airbus--a potential bidder on key DoD contracts--was accused this week of what appears to be a massive insider-trading scheme. Read the press release and articles published in Time, Forbes, and the Wall Street Journal. (10/4/07)

IFPTE Urges Senate to Vote for Increased NASA Funding
HR 3093, the FY08 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, which includes NASA, is scheduled for a Senate vote today. Read IFPTE's letter of support and press release urging passage. (10/4/07)

Kennedy-led A-76 Amendment Passes Senate Floor
Conferees Urged to Retain Bill Language
IFPTE, along with several other unions, signed a letter of support urging the Senate to support an A-76 floor amendment imposing a one-year moratorium on its use. Read the entire letter. (10/4/07)

A-76 Amendment Passes Senate
In a joint letter praising the 'Wounded Warriors' legislation, unions representing federal employees also urged the Conferees to retain Section 301 in the conference report, imposing a one-year moratorium on the use of the A-76 privatization process for military medical facilities. Read the entire letter. (10/4/07)

Committee Urged to Repeal NSPS
In letters to the Conference Committee, IFPTE along with the UDWC urged members to repeal the NSPS language contained within the FY08 DoD Authorization bill. Talking points, for contact with respective Senate and House committee members, are included. (10/2/07)

Despite Passage, IFPTE Remains Concerned about Patent Reform
IFPTE is concerned that the pending Pension bill in the House of Representatives could adversely impact innovators here in the United States. However, Congressman Berman (D-CA), who is fostering this legislation to passage, has and continues to heed the concerns of IFPTE and other labor unions involved in this issue. In looking forward to addressing many of these issues through the legislative process, most notably the workforce deficiencies at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, IFPTE is fully supportive and associates itself with the AFL-CIO 9/6/07 letter sent to all House Members. See how your Representative voted. (9/6/07)

Local 30 VP/NCIL Legislative Representative, Dr. Lee Stone, Featured on Federal News Radio
IFPTE Local 30 Vice President, and Legislative Representative for the NASA Council of IFPTE Locals (NCIL), Dr. Lee Stone, added his voice to the debate surrounding the recently released GAO Report [PDF] entitled, NASA: Progress Made on Strategic Human Capital Management, but Future Challenges Remain (GAO-07-1004). The GAO Report says NASA has moved toward establishing better mechanisms for human capital planning. However, it also warns NASA of the negative impact that RIF actions and forced buyouts have on the morale of the workforce, an issue that IFPTE has warned Congress about for several years. IFPTE has successfully worked with Congress in blocking past RIF attempts at NASA, and is currently working to ensure that similar RIF attempts don't occur in the future.

This segment was aired in Washington, DC during the August 20th 'morning drive' segment on Federal News Radio, 1050AM. Click here to read about the segment and listen to the recorded audio. (8/20/07)

ALJ Pension Reform Bill Introduced in House
Judge Ron Bernoski, President of the Association of Administrative Law Judges (AALJ)/IFPTE Judicial Council 1, submitted testimony before the House Subcommittee on the Federal Workforce, Postal Service & the District of Columbia last week in support of HR 3136, The Administrative Law Judges Retirement Act of 2007. Introduced by Congressman Albert Wynn (D-MD), the bill aims to fix pension benefit inequities experienced by U.S. Administrative Law Judges. Read the press release, Judge Bernoski's testimony, and the full text of the legislation. (8/7/07)

House Defunds Reckless NSPS Policy
Bipartisan Inslee/Jones/Van Hollen Amendment Passes Without Opposition
On the eve of the August recess period lawmakers in the House of Representatives rendered another nail in the coffin of the anti-worker, anti-civil servant policy known as the National Security Personnel System (NSPS). The Congressional rebuke of NSPS, which effectively calls for an end to the flawed policy, passed without opposition on a voice-vote. Read the press release, President Junemann's letter to the House, and other related documents. (updated 8/7/07)

FROM SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS SECTION
IFPTE Statement on Minneapolis I-35 Bridge Collapse Tragedy
In the wake of the still unfolding tragedy in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis-St. Paul, IFPTE and St. Paul-based IFPTE Local 150 extend their sympathy and prayers to the friends, families and communities of those lost and missing in the I-35 bridge collapse. Full Statement. (8/2/07)

IFPTE, NASA’s Largest Federal Union, Endorses HR 3093
IFPTE urges passage to rescue NASA aeronautics, science, and education
In anticipation of today’s House’s consideration of HR 3093, the Fiscal Year 2008 (FY08) Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies spending measure, NASA’s largest union, the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), publicly endorsed the annual spending package while applauding Subcommittee Chairman Alan Mollohan (D, WV) for his staunch support of the NASA workforce. In a letter to all House Members, IFPTE President Gregory J. Junemann not only asked lawmakers to support the Mollohan legislation, but to also oppose any amendments aimed at weakening the NASA related provisions of the bill. Read the press release. (7/25/07)

Cost of NSPS to Taxpayers is Not Transparent
GAO Report Confirms $158 Million Price Tag is False
A much anticipated Government Accountability Office (GAO) Report (GAO-07-851) intending to uncover the true taxpayer costs of implementing the so-called National Security Personnel System (NSPS) found that the price of NSPS cannot be determined because "DOD has not established an oversight mechanism to ensure that these costs are fully captured." Read the press release and the full GAO report. (7/19/07)

Minority H-1B Amendment Offered on Higher Education Act
Fails on Procedural Vote
One month after the demise of the comprehensive immigration bill, Republican Senators Cornyn (TX), Gregg (NH), Enzi (WY) and Smith (OR) offered an H-1B Amendment to HR 2669, the Higher Education Act. The amendment failed on a procedural vote of 55-40. Read President Junemann's letter to the Senate opposing the amendment. (7/19/07)

FROM SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS SECTION
IFPTE and GAO Have Reached a Settlement to Move Forward with the Representation Election
The parties released a Joint Statement outlining the terms of this historic agreement. (7/18/07)

MTS Allstream Moves to Conciliation with TEAM/Local 161
Conciliator Will Work to Move Negotiations Forward
Since February, TEAM/Local 161 diligently worked to negotiate a contract with MTS Allstream; however, MTS' actions ran contrary to meaningful negotiations that showed Fairness and Respect to their dedicated workforce. Instead, the company engaged in surface bargaining and now has requested the services of a Conciliator in an attempt to resolve the bargaining impasse. (7/11/07)

Urge Your Senators to Show Support for a GAO Election
Sign-on to Durbin/Akaka Letter
Your Action is Needed Today! Please contact your Senators and urge them to sign-on to Senator Durbin's and Akaka's letter for a fair election for the Analysts at GAO. Take part in the campaign (updated 7/9/07)

Employee Free Choice Act Garners 51-48 Majority Vote
Falls Short of 60 Needed to End Debate
With a vote of 51-48, the Employee Free Choice Act fell short of the 60 votes needed for cloture (ending the debate) in the Senate. See how your Senators voted. With a view towards 2008, President Junemann urged labor to "elect representatives who will support issues important to working people." Read the press release. (6/26/07)

Senate Reconsiders Immigration Reform Legislation
IFPTE Sends Letter Opposing Bill
IFPTE sent a letter to the full Senate indicating our disappointment with the Senate's leadership who apparently reached a deal with the White House clearing the path for its potential reconsideration. While the legislation is a blessing for the corporate community, it includes a laundry list of shortcomings for American workers, namely the liberalization of the H-1B Visa Program. Read the full letter. (6/22/07)

Employee Free Choice Act Moves to Senate Floor
Urge Your Senators to Vote 'Yes'
The Employees Free Choice Act, legislation that will allow workers to freely form unions in their workplaces without fear or intimidation, is scheduled for a floor vote in the Senate today. All members, their families and friends are encouraged to contact their Senators and urge them to vote 'Yes' for the legislation. Read President Junemann's letter to the Senate on the Employee Free Choice Act. (6/18/07)

House Rescues NASA Science, Aeronautics, Education
IFPTE applauded the leadership of Congressman Mollohan, chairman of the Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, after passing a spending measure that increased NASA's budget by $290 million over the President's request. In a related letter, IFPTE provided the chairs of both appropriations subcommittees with a list of recommendations to help NASA retain its leadership. Read the press release and recommendations letter (combined documents). (6/13/07)

IFPTE Opposes Cantwell/Cornyn Amendment to Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill
President Junemann penned a letter to the full Senate opposing an amendment to be offered by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and John Cornyn (R-TX) that would essentially do away with the H-1B visa cap all together, along with eliminating the limited oversight that currently exists in the current H-1B program. Read the entire letter. (6/6/07)

In Support of Senator Sanders H1-B Visa Amendment
In a letter to the full Senate, IFPTE voiced its support for Senator Sanders H-1B Visa amendment being offered today during consideration of S.1348, the comprehensive immigration reform bill. Sanders amendment will significantly increase employer fees on H-1B visas and use the resulting resources for scholarships in math, science, engineering and nursing education. Read the Senate letter and the press release.

GAO Analysts Seek Union Representation with IFPTE
Analysts with the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the 'watchdogs for Congress', culminated their organizing campaign and made history on May 8th when they filed for union representation with the GAO Personnel Appeals Board (PAB). The analysts, located in regional offices across the country as well as at GAO's headquarters in Washington, DC, are the first group within GAO to seek union representation. Read news clippings on the historic filing.

Junemann, Analysts Testify before Congress on Personnel Reform
President Junemann and GAO Analysts testified before the Joint House and Senate Subcommittees on the Federal Workforce, Postal Service and District of Columbia on the controversial personnel rule changes that effectively demoted hundreds of analysts. The Hearing "GAO Personnel Reform: Does It Meet Expectations?", will also include testimony from GAO's Comptroller and General Counsel as well as representatives from the Congressional Research Service (CRS). Read President Junemann's testimony. (5/22/07)

Court of Appeals Reverses Lower Courts NSPS Decisions
After yesterday's victory in the House, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia reversed the lower courts decisions regarding the National Security Personnel System (NSPS). Read the entire press release. (5/18/07)

UDWC Holds Press Conference in Response to Appeals Court Ruling (5/21/07)

FY08 Defense Authorization Easily Passes House, Includes NSPS Repeal Language
The House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly to pass H.R. 1585, the Fiscal Year 2008 (FY08) National Defense Authorization Act. Included in the bill is broad ranging language aimed at restoring collective bargaining and appeals rights of DoD workers. The language took direct aim at the National Security Personnel System (NSPS), and included a 3.5% percent military pay raise and appeal rights for federal employees during A-76 contracting competitions. Read the entire press release. (5/17/07)

L.20 Testifies on Air Carrier Maintenance
Lou Lucivero, President of Local 20's United Airlines chapter, testified before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation regarding congressional scrutiny of the offshoring of domestic airline maintenance work. Download the testimony (4/13/07)

IFPTE Lends Its Support to Wendover High School
Showing our support for frontline science teachers grooming the next generation of NASA scientists, IFPTE presented Wendover High School with a $1,000 check to assist the science students on a trip to White Sands, New Mexico where they will see their "magnets" experiment launch. Read the entire letter. (4/9/07)

New Call to End Workers' Abuse
IFPTE President, Greg Junemann, called for international standards on migrant workers to be raised worldwide to stop the abuse of those who leave their homes behind in pursuit of a better life for them and their families. Read the entire article from the Gulf Daily News. (3/31/07)

IFPTE Urges Full Funding for NASA from Appropriations Committee
In a letter to the Chairmen of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees, IFPTE urged that NASA's top line be as close as possible to $18.3 billion dollars, a billion dollar plus-up from the President's request, in order to meet its broad range of responsibilities to the American people. Read the entire letter. (3/20/07)

Article Touts 'Don't Want NSPS, Join a Union'
Robbie Kunreuther, an HR specialist, explains why now would be a good time for non-union workers in DoD to seek union representation in his article published by FedSmith.com, 'Don't Want NSPS, Join a Union'. Read the entire article. (3/6/07)

Employee Free Choice Act Passes House
The House of Representatives did its part in moving forward a major piece of legislation in support of American workers. In passing HR 800, the Employee Free Choice Act, lawmakers took the first step toward giving American workers the ability to form a union absent employer intimidation. IFPTE extends its thanks to all for weighing in on this important issue. Read the complete press release. (3/2/07)

Senators and a Bi-partisan Group of House Members Sign Wynn Letter in Support of GAO Analysts' Right to Organize
In a letter dated February 26, 2007 iniated by Maryland Congressman, Albert Wynn, Senators Clinton, Kennedy, Mikulski and Cardin, and a bi-partisan group of 18 House members, including Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, and Chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee George Miller stated their support for the right of GAO Analysts to organize a Union to represent them for the purpose of collective bargaining. Read the full letter here. (2/26/07)

Employee Free Choice Act Legislation Introduced in House of Representatives
The Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA), the much needed labor law reform bill that aims to level the playing field for the tens of millions of American workers wanting to form and join unions, was introduced in the House late last night with an impressive 230 cosigners. In just the first several weeks of the 110th Congress, the bill (HR 800) has far outweighed the 214 cosponsors it gained in the 109th Congress. Read the complete press release. (2/6/07)

NASA Workforce Protected in Continuing Resolution
Today, the House will vote on H.J. Res. 20, the much anticipated Continuing Resolution (CR) for the remaining Fiscal Year 2007 (FY07) spending bills. While there still remain issues to address in the upcoming spending cycle, Congressional Appropriators did adopt some of IFPTE's principal proposals with respect to NASA's appropriation. Read the complete press release. (1/31/07)

GAO Analysts Seek Union Representation from IFPTE
1,500 analysts employed at the Government Accountability Office (GAO) are seeking union representation from IFPTE. This is the first time that a vote for union representation rights will be held at the agency that serves as Congress' investigative arm. Read the entire story. (1/23/07)

Improving Job Safety for New Jersey’s Turnpike Employees
Fran Ehret, President of the New Jersey Turnpike Employees Union-IFPTE Local 194, represents some 1,500 toll collectors, maintenance workers, clerical and technical employees. Ehret and other Local 194 leaders have been pressing hard and winning some victories to make the job less dangerous. Read the full story on the AFL-CIO web site. (1/22/07)

Newsome Appointed Atlantic Area Vice President
Gerald Newsome, Trustee Chair for IFPTE Local 195, has been appointed to fill the vacancy for the Atlantic Area Vice President on IFPTE's Executive Council. Read the release. (1/12/07)

IFPTE Urges House to Pass ‘Clean Minimum Wage’ Bill
IFPTE penned a letter of support urging the House of Representatives to pass HR 2, the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007. Legislators were also encouraged to pass a ‘clean bill’ free of amendments providing tax incentives for business or rolling back healthcare for workers. (1/10/07)

NJ Legislature Urged to Support Public Sector Workers
Continuing to fight against any cuts to pensions and health care benefits for public sector workers in New Jersey, IFPTE, CWA, and AFT along with the AFL-CIO issued a joint statement urging legislators to stand in support of this vital workforce. The statement was released at a press conference held at New Jersey's Statehouse. Read the joint statement and our press release. (11/27/06)

IFPTE Executive Vice President Dominick Critelli Passes Away
On Satuday, November 11th, IFPTE suddenly lost one of the greatest and longtime union members of our family - Dominick Critelli. Dominick was president of Local 195 and Executive Vice President of IFPTE. We send our deepest condolences to his family and members of Local 195.

The Critelli Family asks that in lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Jude Children's Hospital in the memory of Dominick Critelli, Jr. (updated 11/13/06)

Kentucky River Decisions Erodes Unionization
The long-awaited, precedent setting decisions have expanded the scope and created a roadmap by which employers can classify workers as supervisors, effectively opening the floodgates for millions of American workers to be deemed exempt from unionizing under federal labor law. Read the entire press release and the three case decisions. (10/3/06)

NASA’s Budget Crisis
The articles below reinforce the arguments IFPTE has made to Congress for almost two years. This issue is critical to IFPTE's federal and private sector membership as well as the flying public. Although Congress has recessed until after the November elections and NASA’s funding bill remains outstanding, IFPTE will continue to work to correct funding shortfalls and other issues within the legislation. Read the text of the articles. (9/27/06)

NSPS Defund Language Included in Defense Spending Bill
Congressional appropriators have included NSPS defunding language as a part of the final version of the Fiscal Year 2007 Defense Appropriations bill. This congressional action comes after the House of Representatives voice vote approval of the NSPS defunding amendment this past June as well as a February ruling against NSPS by U.S. Federal District Court Judge Emmet Sullivan. Read the entire release. (9/26/06)

Senators Send Letters Supporting NSPS Defunding Language
Senators Akaka, Murray, and Cantwell sent letters to Senators Ted Stevens and Daniel Inouye, Chair and Ranking Member of the Appropriations Defense Subcommittee respectively. The letters urged the committee to retain House language that would halt implementation of NSPS provisions found illegal by the courts. Read the full text of the letters. (9/20/06)

UDWC Releases Statement for NSPS Hearing before the Senate Homeland Security Committee
The UDWC released a statement for the record in response to the September 20th hearing on the National Security Personnel System held before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. The statement was entered into the record to respond to testimony made by Gordon England, Deputy Secretary of Defense, and because no labor witnesses were invited to testify before the committee. (9/20/06)

Orion Spacecraft could Jeopardize Large Portions of NASA’s Budget
IFPTE is deeply concerned about NASA HQ's recent awarding of a multi-billion dollar contract for the development and building of the new spacecraft Orion. This decision seems to ignore the results of a recent GAO Report on this issue and could lock a large portion of NASA's budget for years to come into a financially imprudent, inadequately defined, and technically uncertain course of action. Read President’s Junemann’s letters to the House and Senate Science Committees. (9/18/06)

IFPTE Endorses Maine’s Congressman Allen
“Congressman Allen has been a leader when it comes to fighting for those Shipyard issues that are important to the membership of IFPTE Local 4.” These were some of President Junemann’s recent comments as IFPTE announced its endorsement of Representative Tom Allen, who is running for his sixth term to represent Maine’s first congressional district. Read the entire release. (9/6/06)

Shearon Elected Secretary-Treasurer; Three New Members Join Council
Delegates of the 55th Constitutional Convention of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) elected Paul Shearon to serve as the Union’s Secretary-Treasurer. Read the press release. Three new Executive Council members were also elected during the Convention: Cynthia Cole, Mark Mitchell and R. Kirk Miller. (7/31/06)

NSPS Defunded, House Amendment Passes on Voice Vote
The House of Representatives, by a voice vote, overwhelmingly passed an amendment sponsored by Representatives Inslee (D-WA), Van Hollen (D-MD) and Jones (R-NC) defunding the illegal portions of the sham National Security Personnel System (NSPS). Said President Junemann, "...the House officially recognized the NSPS for exactly what it is--a costly personnel system not geared toward national security, but intended to strip the rights and pay from hundreds of thousands of civilian personnel working at DoD." While this is a tremendous victory, there is still more work to be done as the issue moves on to the Senate. Read the UDWC's press release, the floor debate, and the amendment. (6/20/06)

Ontario's Government Backs Coal-Fired Stations in Electricity Industry
"Energy Minister Dwight Duncan made good on his 2004 promise to take the politics out of the electricity industry," said Andrew Muller, IFPTE Canadian Area Vice President and President of the Society of Energy Professionals/IFPTE Local 160. Vice President Muller's comments on Ontario's nuclear announcement were picked up by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Canada's national television network. To get all the particulars, read the press release. (6/13/06)

IFPTE Voices Concerns with Senate Immigration Overhaul Bill
In a letter to the full Senate, IFPTE voiced its concern with S.2611, the comprehensive immigration overhaul bill. Language within the legislation would create seven-year term limits for immigration judges as well as dramatically expand the H1-B visa program. Read the entire letter. (5/16/06)

Toyama Testifies on NSPS
"The NSPS as we know it today is nothing more than an unworkable and illegal personnel system that was created unilaterally by the Pentagon and OPM." This was one of many statements from Western Federal Area Vice President, Ben Toyama, as he testified on the NSPS before the Senate Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia. The purpose of the hearing, Preparing for Transition: Implementation of the National Security Personnel System, was to evaluate the training and communications strategy used at DoD agencies while preparing to implement the NSPS. Read the full text of his testimony. (4/12/06)

Immigration Overhaul Bill would have 'Globalization in Reverse' Effect
In a letter to the Senate, President Junemann voiced his concerns with the impending immigration overhaul bill being considered by the Senate Judiciary Committee. If passed, this legislation would negatively impact IFPTE's members working in the high tech field. Read our letter to the Senate. (3/15/06)

IFPTE Supports Senator DeWine's NASA Amendments
The administration has drastically underfunded several important programs at NASA that will impact members in the public and private sectors, but will also threaten the future viability of aeronautics R&D all together. IFPTE is supporting two amendments that may be offered by Senator Mike DeWine (D-OH) to restore NASA's funding to last year's levels. Your Action is Needed! - Read our letter to the Senate. (3/15/06)

NCIL Responds to NASA's Workforce Proposal
The NASA Council of IFPTE Locals (NCIL) responded to NASA's Workforce Proposal required to be submitted to IFPTE and to Congress as a result of the union-backed language included in NASA's Authorization Act of 2005. IFPTE remains concered that the document submitted by NASA does not meet Congress' requirements in terms of providing a comprehensive workforce plan. While we intend on addressing that particular issue outside of this response, we nonetheless feel it necessary to adhere to the authorization bill by replying to NASA's proposal. Along with the NCIL's response is our press release and the original NASA workforce document.

United Airlines Engineers Ratify First Union Contract
After a three year battle, during an unprecedented industry downturn and a company bankruptcy, nearly 300 engineers, members of IFPTE Local 20, employed by United Airlines, have their first union contract. The long anticipated contract was ratified by a vote of 160 (yes) to 76 (no). Read the entire release, view the ratification photo gallery, or visit UAL Watch for more information on the contract ratification. (3/8/06)

General Counsel Appointed to LCC Board of Directors
IFPTE's General Counsel, Julia A. Clark, has been appointed to the Board of Directors for the AFL-CIO Lawyers Coordinating Committee. Read the entire release. (3/1/06)

Federal Court Says 'NO' to NSPS
Labor scored another important victory in the fight to maintain collective bargaining rights for federal employees when U.S. Federal District Court Judge Emmet G. Sullivan blocked the Pentagon from moving forward on the National Security Personnel System (NSPS), finding that the new rules fail "to ensure even minimal collective bargaining rights." Read the entire UDWC press release, an article highlighting comments from Local 3 president John Garrity, or visit the Coalition's site for additional information. (2/27/06)

Locals 'Press' Following NSPS Lobbying
After several days of lobbying congressional representatives on the pitfalls of the NSPS to DoD employees, some Locals issued information with one being picked up by their local media. Local 97 issued a Special Edition of its newsletter Local 97 Representative highlighting the lobbying day with talking points and pictures, and Local 4 received coverage in Seacoastonline, after issuing a press release on the Local's trip. (2/17/06)

IFPTE Issues Talking Points on NSPS
In preparation for several days of lobbying by members of the federal sector, IFPTE has issued talking points on the NSPS. In the interim, the court has delayed the Pentagon's proposed, flawed personnel system...again. For a full range of information on the NSPS, visit the UDWC's website. (1/24/06)

IFPTE Endorses Snowe for Re-Election
In our first endorsement for 2006, IFPTE has endorsed the re-election of Senator Olympia Snowe (R-ME) as she seeks her third term serving the citizens of Maine. Read related Roll Call article. (1/24/06)

Editorial Criticizes NASA's Priorities
After passage of The NASA Authorization Act of 2005, the LA Times published an editorial, Down-to-Earth Choices, which criticized the agency's priorities. In response to these devisive comments, President Junemann, in a letter-to-the-editor, again called for President Bush and Congress to pass a budget 'that reflects the agency's broadened responsibilities'. (1/22/06)

President Signs NASA Authorization Act
In a letter to President Bush, President Junemann expressed his appreciation upon the signing of S.1281, The NASA Authorization Act of 2005. While the Authorization bill lays out a blueprint for the future, Junemann also requested that Bush present a budget to Congress 'that reflects the Agency's broadened responsibilities'. Read the entire letter. (1/13/06)

CAFTA Implementation Delayed
Todd Tucker, former Local 70 member, now Research Director with Public Citizen's Global Trade Watch, penned an informative article for Global Politician on CAFTA's delayed implementation. He not only provides the reason behind the delay, he also provides the status for implementation for each of the CAFTA countries. Read the entire article. (1/12/06)

"The Pie is What Matters"
This was a comment from President Junemann when interviewed by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (MJS). Junemann expressed his views on a new model for unions and the professional workforce in an article titled, A Union Leader for the Global Economy.

Congress to Pass NASA Authorization Bill, Correctly Reasserts Its Oversight Role
Before adjourning for the year, Congress is expect to approve The National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005. The conference report properly embraces the President's Vision for Space Exploration, reinvigorates NASA's commitment to maintain the nation's pre-eminence in aeronautics research and development (R&D), mandates that NASA's core Life and Microgravity Science capabilities be sustained, preserves the nation's investment in NASA's world-class facilities, and perhaps most importantly, reforms NASA's accounting structure and practices to help restore programmatic and fiscal order. Read the entire press release and the AFL-CIO's letter of support for NASA's civil servants.

IFPTE Executive Vice President Named to New Jersey Governor-Elect's Transition Team
Dominick Critelli, IFPTE Executive Vice President and President of Local 195 was asked by New Jersey Governor-Elect Jon Corzine (D) to serve on his transition policy team, specifically Corzine's Budget and Reengineering Government Policy Group. Read the entire press release.

Local 70 President Participates in Democratic Press Conference Supporting a Raise in the Minimum Wage
Heather Boushey, president of Local 70 and an economist for the Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR), joined Senator Ted Kennedy, Congressmen Steny Hoyer (D-MD), George Miller (D-CA) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and Dr. Robert Edgar, Secretary of the National Council of Churches, as they called on Congress to raise the national minimum wage before leaving for the year. They released a report from the CEPR detailing the difficulty that families living on the minimum wage have in making ends meet. View a copy of the CEPR report.

Pentagon "Steamrolls" Collaborative Process
Continuing to keep workers at arm’s length from the creation of the National Security Personnel System (NSPS), Pentagon officials have strategically scheduled the ‘continuing collaboration’ process in the midst of the holiday season and during the last days of the Congressional session. In what appears to be a well planned effort to move forward without United DoD Workers Coalition (UDWC) member organizations present, the DoD continues to lock out workers from the creation of NSPS. Read the press release or visit UDWC's site for additional information.

IFPTE Raises Strong Objections to NASA Science Cuts
In an effort to help protect NASA's Science mission from planned acorss-the-board cuts in Fiscal Year 2007 by NASA Administrator Michael Griffin, President Junemann has asked Congress for increased oversight of the space agency's budgetary and programmatic planning in an effort to find a better solution to NASA's financial woes. Read the letter to Congress and press release as well as Administrator Griffin's revealing letter to Joshua Bolton, Director of the Office of Management and Budget.

Local 2001 Members ratify Boeing Contract Offers for Puget Sound Bargaining Units
Contracts locking in three years of wage and benefit improvements for 17,878 engineers and technical workers at the Boeing Company go into effect at midnight (December 2) after being ratified by boting members of SPEEA/Local 2001. Visit the Local's site for updated information.

Congressional Black Caucus Steps Up Efforts to Help CREA Members Slated for Firings
The Congressional Research Service (CRS) Director Daniel Mulhollan announced plans to unilaterally eliminate 59 civil service positions, all of which are represented by the Congressional Research Employees Association (CREA)/IFPTE Local 75. This action would disproportionately impact minority workers prompting the Congressional Black Caucus to intervene. Read the entire article.

IFPTE Pushes for Passage of Contracting Out Provisions
IFPTE supports and signed on to a joint union letter referencing contracting provisions included in the Fiscal Year 2006 Transportation/Treasury appropriations bill. Read the entire letter.

Local 160 Claims Victory Over Hydro One
Arbitrator Kevin Whitaker ruled in favor of Local 160 and against Hydro One on two-tier wage and benefits and increases in the base hours of work. However, he granted a three percent wage increase in each of the three years of the contract, and a few minor differences in the pension plan for new employees. Earlier this year, members of Local 160 struck Hydro One for 105 days, the longest strike ever in the history of IFPTE. Read the entire release.

NSPS Implementation Delayed
As reported in GovExec.com, unions and the DoD have agreed to hold off on implementing the labor relations portion of the National Security Personnel System (NSPS) until February 2006. DoD still will be able to implement a few minor portions of NSPS before February. Most notably, the department can continue to train employees on the workings of the new system, and it can release implementing issuances, which provide details on how to carry out the regulations. Read the entire article.

Local 2001 Recommends Members Approve New Contracts with the Boeing Company
Negotiation teams for SPEEA/Local 2001 concluded negotiations with the Boeing Company with an agreement its negotiation teams strongly recommend members approve. The proposed new three-year contracts lock in wage increases, places engineers and technical employees into Boeing's employee incentive plan (EIP) and restores full medical coverage. Visit the Local's site for updated information.

Mobilizing for International Human Rights Day -- December 10th
As part of International Human Rights Day, December 10, the labor movement is mobilizing to demand workers are guaranteed a fundamental human right: The freedom to have a union voice on the job. Visit the AFL-CIO site for additional information and to download materials.

AFL-CIO Showcases Local 21's Union City Partnership
"Everybody Has to Be an Organizer'
Highlighting Local 21's spirit and determination, the AFL-CIO wrote a feature story on the Local's historic UCP (union city partnership) agreement with the city of San Francisco. Said David Novogrodsky, Local 21's Executive Director, "We don't have enough money to set aside some for organizing, so everybody in the Local has to be an organizer all the time." Read the entire story.

Local 2001 Begins Contract Talks with the Boeing Company
SPEEA/Local 2001 has opened contract negotiations with the Boeing Company. The Local seeks new contracts for 788 engineers at Boeing's Wichita plant. The Wichita Engineering Unit contract expires December 5. Local 2001 opened talks November 1 in Seattle for two other bargaining units. The Puget Sound Professional unit includes 12,096 engineers and the Technical unit has 5,672 technical workers. The Puget Sound contracts expire December 1. Visit the Local's site for updated information.

DoD Coalition to Challenge NSPS
The UDWC has filed suit against the Pentagon arguing that among its many flaws the National Security Personnel System (NSPS) illegally does away with the collective bargaining rights of DoD workers. IFPTE is among the unions suing the Pentagon. Read our press release, view the lawsuit, and read articles from the Washington Post and GovExec.com.

Appropriators Request Adequate Funding for NASA
A letter submitted to the Senate Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Committee requested adequate funding for NASA Aeronautics and Life Sciences programs as these programs have been targeted by NASA management for downsizing or elimination all together. IFPTE applauds Senator Mike DeWine (R-OH) for his leadership in this endeavor.

H-1B Amendment Fails
Senator Byrd's amendment decreasing the number of H-1B visas by 150,000 (30k per year over five years) and increasing the fees on L-1 visas to $1500 was defeated. Of particular disappointment are the votes of Senators Cantwell, Murray, Roberts and Brownback, who all heard from IFPTE with respect to the role the H-1B program has played in displacing Boeing workers. Thanks to all who contacted their Senators, in particular SPEEA/Local 2001 and the Department for Professional Employees (DPE) who led the effort encouraging Senator Byrd to offer the amendment. IFPTE will continue to work on this issue. We encourage members and Locals to contact their respective legislators and thank them for their vote or ask them why they voted against this important amendment. Here's the vote tally and Senate phone list.

Support Senator Byrd's Amendment Decreasing H-1B Visas
IFPTE sent a letter to all Senators urging their support of Senator Byrd's amendment to overturn the Judiciary Committee's action increasing the number of H-1B visas by 150,000 (30k per year over five years). The Byrd amendment would also increase the fees on L-1 visas to $1500, a move also supported by IFPTE. The amendment is being considered as a part of the Senate's budget reconciliation package. The vote is expected sometime this week, so Locals and members should contact their respective legislators as soon as possible. A talking point and Senate phone list is also included for your convenience.

IFPTE Denounces Effort to Freeze Federal Pay, Cut Transportation Funding
Seven Senators Seek to Undercut Federal Pay Increase
Following a recommendation by the Republican Study Committee last month to cut the retirement benefits of U.S. civil servants, seven Senators recently took their turn at targeting federal workers by advocating that the pay of civilian workers be held stagnant in the coming year. The professed cost cutting is one of many proposals put forth by the seven lawmakers, including delaying the Medicare prescription drug benefit and cutting upwards of $24 billion from the long awaited and recently approved transportation funding bill. The lawmakers claim the savings from the proposed package will total $125 billion and will help pay for the clean up efforts resulting from Hurricane Katrina. Read the entire press release.

NSPS to be Published 10/27/05
UDWC, Press to be Briefed by OPM, Pentagon on 10/26/05
The United DoD Workers Coalition (UDWC) will be briefed by Pentagon and Office of Personnel Management (OPM) officials on the much maligned National Security Personnel System (NSPS). The 4pm UDWC briefing is to be held at OPM and will be attended by union members and leaders from many of the 36 Coalition member unions. This will follow a 3pm briefing at the Pentagon provided exclusively for members of the press. Said IFPTE President Gregory Junemann, "It is clear that the current version of NSPS is not only unacceptable to the Coalition, it also appears to be contrary to the authorizing law. Having said that however, I am willing to adopt the actions of the Coalition to date and approach this with an open mind. In particular, I will be looking closely to see what, if any, of the Coalition's reasoned recommendations were incorporated in the final product before issuing any formal comments." Read the press release or visit UDWC's site for additional information.

IFPTE Tells Congress to Reject Expansion of the H-1B Program
In a press statement released on October 19th, IFPTE President Gregory Junemann made the following comment on expanding the H-1B program. "Needless to say, our nation's high tech workers are facing dire employment circumstances," said Junemann. "Whether it be corporate America's decision to offshore high tech jobs to cheaper employment markets elsewhere, or the record unemployment numbers facing white-collar workers, millionsof highly educated Americans are finding it increasingly difficult to reap the benefits of the American dream. Indeed, the H-1B program, as it stands now, is an insult to the American workers. It is is not CAFTA-like trade agreements leading to the loss of countless American jobs, then it is visa programs like H-aB and L-1 that allow for the legal importation of cheap labor to displace American workers. Expanding H-1B will only be adding salt to the wound." Read the entire statement.

Federal Judge Rejects Bush Administration's Attack on Federal Workers...Again
Judge Collyer again rejected the Bush Administration's attempt to kill collective bargaining rights for federal workers at the Department of Homeland Security. Several weeks ago, Judge Collyer ruled that the administration's union busting DHS personnel rules were illegal. While the administration sought to separate sections of the DHS policy from the illegal labor relations part, Judge Collyer again ruled against the administration's attempt and held firm on the previous injunction. The ruling sets a very clear precedent for federal workers at the Department of Defense who are facing similar attacks with the NSPS. Read the press release and court decision or visit UDWC's site for additional information.

IFPTE Urges Congress to Pass Pension Reform
Senate Could Act Before Week is Out
The International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) has joined with the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), as well as others in the labor community, in urging the Senate to act quickly on pension overhaul legislation. IFPTE, which represents workers at Northwest Airlines who could benefit from prospective pension legislation, has asked Senators to support legislation allowing companies to better fund their pension funds. Read President Junemann's letter to the Senate and the press release for additional information.

CRS Plans Reduction-In-Force Action
Reduction Disproportionately Impacts Minority Workers
The Congressional Research Service (CRS) Director Daniel Mulhollan announced plans to unilaterally eliminate 59 civil servant positions. All the positions slated for impact--Production Support, Technical Support Assistant, and Audio-Visual--are represented by the Congressional Research Employees Association (CREA)/IFPTE Local 75 and would disproportionately impact minority workers. IFPTE and Local 75 will continue to monitor this issue and have asked Congress to intervene. Representative Albert Wynn authored a letter to Director Mulhollan urging him to suspend the RIF and to meet with Local 75. In addition, there is also a Congressional Black Cuacus (CBC) letter being sent to Director Mulhollan, and we are seeking another letter from D.C.'s congressional delegation. Our brothers and sisters at CRS are also undertaking a lobbying and letter writing campaign. Read CREA's Impact Survey, press release, and The Hill article for more information.

Senate Passes NASA Authorization
Bill Addresses Some of IFPTE's Concerns but Critical Issues Remain to be Resolved
The United States Senate approved S. 1281, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005. Like its House counterpart, the authorization language embraces the President’sVision and reinvigorates NASA’s commitment to maintain the nation’s pre-eminence in aeronautics research and development (R&D), preserves the nation’s investment in NASA’s world-class research facilities, and demands a thoughtful re-evaluation and vetting of NASA’s workforce issues prior to implementation. However, several issues of concern remain outstanding for IFPTE.

The New Union Worker
WSJ article Examines Professionals and Unions
Paul Davis wears two hats at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration: optical physicist and president of his local union. The union has about 200 members, twice as many as it had three years ago. "We're using union methods to make sure our scientists are heard," says Mr. Davis, who works in Mountain View, Calif., at the Ames Research Center, where researchers recently tested heat-shield tiles to help ensure the Discovery space shuttle's safe return. Read the entire article.

'Solidarity Strike Brings Win for Local 160!
"This 'solidarity strike' was not about individuals but future workers and the future of the company; not about self interest but about collective interests," remarked President Junemann. This 105-day strike was the longest ever in IFPTE's history. With the strike over and the issue involving the two-tier wage discrimination off the table, members of Local 160 have returned to work and have begun arbitration to resolve the remaining issues. Read the press release, the Victory Issue of 'The Striker', and a poem written by a former striker. Visit the Hydro One page to view documents from the strike.

Stop The Privatization of America's Locks and Dams
Representative Lane Evans, (D-IL) is circulating a 'Dear Colleague/sign-on' letter asking House members to add their names to a letter requesting that federal Lock and Dam operators employed by the Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) be classified as Inherently Governmental and not be subject to privatization by the Dept. of Army. As it stands now the Dept. of Army plans to allow Lock and Dam operator positions to be subject to outsourcing, many of which include IFPTE members employed by the USACE. Not only is this attempted outsourcing contrary to the FAIR Act, but it could also negatively impact U.S. homeland security.

Deceiving Congress - NSPS Lobbying Toolkit
Pentagon management has claimed that they intend on publishing the final version of NSPS in the Federal Register as early as September 12th. Be ready to continue the fight against NSPS when Congress returns from their summer recess. Get the NSPS Lobbying materials and prepare to speak to lawmakers during your lobbying visits to Capitol Hill. Visit our NSPS page to view materials/news on this issue.

Upheaval in the AFL-CIO
President Junemann's Open Letter to IFPTE Members on the split in the labor movement.
"The 2005 AFL-CIO Convention is now behind us. With everything else that occurred, the biggest story happened outside of the Convention hall. I’m referring to the disaffiliation of three of the biggest unions within the AFL-CIO. I’d like to discuss why this happened, what this might mean for the AFL-CIO, and how IFPTE will be impacted." Read the entire Open Letter to IFPTE's members.

Fighting Discrimination at Hydro One
Committed to ending the discrimination against younger workers at Hydro One, Local 160 released a hard-hitting campaign of television and newspaper ads in eight different languages. The Society of Energy Professionals/IFPTE Local 160 is calling on Liberal Premier Dalton McGuinty to end discrimination by Hydro One against our members and future engineers at Hydro One. The Premier of Ontario has taken no action over the firing of ten young engineers at Hydro One or the company's demand for a discriminatory wage system. QuickTime is required to view the video and can be downloaded for free. Visit our Hydro One page for updated information.

Labor Day Letter to the Members
President Junemann's Labor Day Letter to IFPTE's members
"Our movement continues to face numerous challenges and opportunities. With these in mind, we all should use this year's Labor Day celebrations to remind ourselves of victories achieved and hurdles yet to be cleared. Read the entire letter - U.S. version; Canadian version.

Federal Judge Says DHS Rule “Fails to comply with the direction of Congress”
The United DoD Workers Coalition (UDWC) released a press statement today praising the decision by U.S. District Court Judge Rosemary M. Collyer to reject the Department of Homeland Security’s new human resources rules. Said IFPTE President Gregory Junemann, “For the better part of three years it has been clear to those of us in the labor community that some in our government have hidden behind the guise of ‘national security’ to forward a political agenda that includes dismantling collective bargaining. The original vehicle used in this effort was DHS, which has now evolved to include NSPS. Like DHS, the authorizing law for NSPS makes it clear that collective bargaining and the rights of workers be preserved and respected. However, to date the administration has failed miserably on each account. I only hope that this decision will serve as a wake-up call to the Pentagon and OPM that the NSPS be more about adhering to the letter of the law and the intent of Congress and less about fulfilling the ideological objective of destroying collective bargaining.” IFPTE is a member organization of the UDWC.

NSPS Information
Get our NSPS information, materials, press releases and photos at the NSPS page. 'Say No to the NSPS'.

Junemann Installed as Vice President on AFL-CIO Executive Council
Proudly, we announce President Gregory Junemann's nomination and installation as an AFL-CIO Vice President. Happy about this honor, President Junemann commented, "It is with tremendous pride that I accept the nomination from President Sweeney to be a part of the AFL-CIO's Executive Council. This is a seat that has been earned by all at IFPTE, particularly our strong and active membership. I proudly accept on behalf of IFPTE’s members, executive officers and staff. In my role as an AFL-CIO Vice President, I look forward to bringing IFPTE issues to the forefront of the American labor movement."

IFPTE Supports Solidarity Charters
IFPTE issued a press statement voicing its support for a new proposal from the AFL-CIO to help unite the grassroots power of the union movement through Solidarity Charters for locals of recently disaffiliated unions.

Since the conclusion of the convention, many disaffiliated unions have contacted the AFL-CIO and have expressed a desire to remain in the Federation at the local level. The proposed Solidarity Charters will allow unions to continue to work together and still benefit from a united grassroots movement providing a stronger voice on issues that matter to working people.

Recently elected to serve as a vice president on the AFL-CIO's Executive Council, President Gregory Junemann stated, "My first decision as a member of the AFL-CIO Executive Council was an easy one. I voted to support President Sweeney’s proposal on the Solidarity Charters as soon as I finished reviewing it. This is an excellent first step toward rebuilding alliances within our movement. The Solidarity Center proposal extends an open invitation to the locals whose national unions disaffiliated from the AFL-CIO. Additionally, this proposal addresses the issues of fair representation on the State and Central Labor Bodies, and serves to support and strengthen these important organizations. This is a terrific idea."

Energy Professionals Release Video Opposing Two Tier System
Determined to challenge the stereotype that energy professionals are all older white males, the Society of Energy Professionals /IFPTE Local 160 have launched a new video that will properly introduce the members of their union, the people who keep our lights on. The video shows how strongly opposed the energy professionals are to the proposed two tier wage and salary system.

We value diversity, all the cultures that come together in this country, and we absolutely cannot accept discrimination against young professionals," said Hamid Riaz, PhD, a professional engineer at Hydro One.

Visit our Hydro One page to read the related documents, view the latest issue/back issues of 'The Striker', a special publication reporting on the strike at Hydro One, visit the photo gallery, read the media releases, or visit the campaign site for additional information.

IFPTE Local 32 Wins Major Election!!
Win Brings Representation to All Southwest Regional Maintenance Center (SWRMC) Employees
In impressive fashion, Local 32 won a pivotal election to represent all Southwest Regional Maintenance Center (SWRMC) employees, doubling the Local's bargaining unit to over 500 employees. With 500+ eligible voters, IFPTE received about 62% of the vote, with an extremely impressive showing from the professional group. Only 12 people voted 'no union', solidifying that when given a fair chance, workers will choose union representation.

IFPTE congratulates the members and officers of Local 32 for this great win. Visit Local 32 to read more about this impressive win.

House Overwhelmingly Passes NASA Authorization
The House of Representatives voted 383-15 in favor of H.R. 3070, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005. Building on last week’s Science Committee action, the final bill approved today went even further in addressing many of the concerns laid out by IFPTE. Read our press statement.

Ontario Federation of Labour Shows Local 160 'The Money'
OFL Commits $10 Million to Strikers
In a show of support and solidarity, Wayne Samuelson, president of the 700,000 member Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) committed to raise $10 million dollars for the striking workers at Hydro One. Last week, the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) also pledged $20,000 dollars for the striking workers. Read the OFL press release and the latest issue of 'The Striker'.

IFPTE Files ILO Complaint Against British Government
IFPTE, along with the AFL-CIO and Public Services International, have filed charges with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) over the treatment of the Association of United States Engaged Staff (AUSES/IFPTE Local 71) employed by the British Government in the United States.

IFPTE filed the charges on behalf of its 630 members employed by the British Embassy in Washington, DC and at its missions across the United States. The workers have been subjected to major benefit cuts unilaterally implemented by the British Government. In addition, they have refused
to collectively bargain the changes with AUSES/IFPTE Local 71 and has refused to recognize the workers’ right to form a union.

President John Sweeney will discuss the complaint and the needs of the staff with Prime Minister Tony Blair in Scotland in advance of the G-8 summit scheduled for later this week. A copy of the ILO complaint (file size 1.9 MB) and other information can be found at AUSES/IFPTE Local 71's website, www.auses.org.

IFPTE Shares BRAC Concerns with Key Senators
On December 21st, IFPTE President Gregory Junemann sent letters to targeted Senators, stating IFPTE’s concerns about the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process currently underway. While there is bipartisan support for delaying the BRAC process for two years, the Bush Administration and the Defense Department leadership are moving forward. The letter highlights the possibility of the BRAC process being used to privatize military depots, including Navy shipyards. Such a privatization could result in reduced deployment readiness, a demoralized workforce, and increased costs, as the story of the United Kingdom's privatized shipyards illustrates. President Junemann is calling for a bipartisan legislative solution to the potential abuse of BRAC to privatize military depots at a time when our national security can ill afford it.

United Engineers Picket Excessive Legal Fees Shaved off by UAL's Lawyers
While the IFPTE represented engineers, technicians and specialists at United Airlines have saved their bankrupt employer over $167 million in the past year, management at United Airlines has paid over $53 million in fees to a law firm specializing in bankruptcy.

Last week, IFPTE filed an objection to these exorbitant legal fees paid by UAL, United's parent company. After the filing, the IFPTE represented engineers, technicians and specialists took part in 'Burma Shave' picketing in front of the San Francisco headquarters of United Services, the United Airlines division where they work.

The engineers, technicians and specialists at United Airlines voted for IFPTE Local 20 representation over two years ago and have been negotiating a union contract ever since. Despite the $167 million saved by these employees, UAL management's only response has been to deny the engineers a fair contract, and push for the elimination of their employees’ pensions and other benefits.

A video news report produced by the Labor Video Project can be viewed here (file size is 1.3 MB). A higher resolution video is available here. (file size is 12.5 MB). QuickTime player is required to view the video and can be downloaded for free.

IFPTE Asks Congress to Protect NASA’s Workforce From Reckless Downsizing
When Congress returns from its President’s Day recess next week, the House Science Committee will be greeted with a request from International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) President Gregory Junemann. Junemann will caution the Committee’s two top lawmakers that, absent their swift involvement, NASA could be on the brink of losing a significant portion of its Civil Servant workforce.

In response to disturbing public statements by NASA officials suggesting that the Agency is considering a massive downsizing of its workforce, IFPTE President Gregory Junemann sent a letter to House Science Committee Chairman Sherwood Boehlert (R, NY), and Ranking Member Bart Gordon (D, TN). The letter asks the Congressmen to prevent the reckless downsizing of 2,673 of NASA’s 18,000 Civil Servant jobs.

Referring to a NASA document obtained by IFPTE, but authored by NASA Associate Administrator for the Office of Institutions and Management, James L. Jennings, Junemann’s letter didn’t mince words in informing the Congressmen of NASA’s misguided plan.

President Junemann asked that the House Science Committee, as a part of their consideration of NASA’s Fiscal Year 2006 Authorization bill, prevent NASA from moving forward with a policy that would cause irreversible harm to its invaluable workforce.

U.K. Embassy & Consulate Staff Approves Affiliation with IFPTE
By an overwhelming majority, the members of the Association of United States Engaged Staff (AUSES) – representing over 600 local staff of the United Kingdom Embassy, Consulates, United Nations Mission and British Trade Offices and other British government facilities in the U.S. – voted to affiliate with IFPTE. AUSES will be the new IFPTE Local 71.

The vote was held at the U.K. Embassy in Washington D.C. on February 23, with AUSES representatives from consulates throughout the U.S. and on assignment in the U.K. also in attendance.

IFPTE President Gregory Junemann said "From what I’ve seen of the AUSES members’ deep commitment to their work, I believe their affiliation with IFPTE continues to build us as a force for professional employees. But make no mistake; this is but only one step in our effort to secure a union contract for the local staff of Her Majesty’s Government in the U.S.A."

United Airlines Union Members Go Global with Fight to Save Pensions
As United Airlines threatens to terminate the retirement benefits of its employees--including IFPTE represented engineers, technicians and specialists--unions throughout the world are showing their support for United’s workers.

In 10 cities, spanning 6 countries, supporters of United’s workers are leafleting the customers of United’s partner airlines in the Star Alliance. Those customers are being told about United’s plans to transfer up to $8 billion in pensions obligations to the U.S. government’s pension insurer, the PBGC.

IFPTE Offers Views on the Future of U.S. Labor to AFL-CIO
In response to AFL-CIO President John Sweeney's solicitation for input from all of the Federation's member unions, the International Federation of Professional & Technical Engineers (IFPTE) offered their views on the future direction of American labor. IFPTE's report to AFL-CIO President Sweeney cites the need to "rebrand labor as a mainstream movement" and advocate for American workers from all walks of life.

IFPTE President Junemann Offers Views on the Future of the U.S. Labor Movement at Labor at a Crossroads Conference
On December 2nd, IFPTE President Gregory Junemann addressed American labor leaders, union activists, labor educators and human rights workers on the future of the U.S. labor movement at the Labor at a Crossroads Conference. The conference addressed some of the different visions of the future direction of the U.S. labor movement and the AFL-CIO.

President Junemann spoke on a panel that included distinguished labor leaders Larry Cohen, Executive Vice President of CWA, Gerald Hudson, International Executive Vice President of SEIU, and Bruce Raynor, General President of UNITE HERE.

President Junemann's comments will, in part, point to the importance of lifelong training for American workers, particularly as it relates to the practice of the offshoring of jobs overseas.

Lame Duck Congress May Attempt to Expand H-1B Program
IFPTE President Junemann Urges Congressional Appropriators to Reject H-1B Expansion
In response to potential Congressional action aimed at expanding the already troubling foreign guest worker program known as H-1B, IFPTE President Gregory Junemann called on Congress to stand up for our nation’s high tech workers.

President Junemann’s letter comes in response to a rumored eleventh hour attempt by some lawmakers to covertly attach this damaging legislative language to one of the final bills expected to pass Congress within the next several days. The legislative provision in question would exempt foreign graduates of U.S. institutions with masters or PhD degrees from the cap of 65,000 H-1B foreign guest workers permitted to work in the Unites States every year.

Despite Attacking Unions at Home, Bush Administration Touts Collective Bargaining Abroad
As President Bush pushes for collective bargaining rights in Cuba and the Middle East, his administration continues its agressive attack to kill those same rights for American workers. Read our press statement.

Senator Kerry Reaffirms Support of NASA
Presidential candidate, Senator John Kerry, reaffirmed his support for NASA and the space program in a letter to President Junemann. Senator Kerry's letter came on the heels of IFPTE's denouncement of an AFL-CIO presidential campaign advertisement that was aired in the battleground state of Ohio condemning President Bush's support for the space program. While the AFL-CIO's intention was to focus on domestic priorities and contrast them with Bush's speech on the new space initiative, what they succeeded in doing was undermining the livelihood of thousands of our members especially those who work for NASA. Read our press release for more information. Additionally, in January 2004, IFPTE penned a letter to President Bush supporting the revitalization of NASA.

Hundreds Rally at the DoL
IFPTE and hundreds of protesters rallied outside the Department of Labor to protest the Bush Administration's overtime regulation changes slated to give a paycut to at least six million workers.

Members of Locals 1, 3 and 195 joined the Federation staff at the rally to lend their voices to the protest. In addition, the bipartisan event was attended by two friends of labor--Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Senator Arlen Specter (R-PA). Senator Harkin retold Local 12 member Sheila Perez's story, using it to emphasize how workers will be negatively affected by the changes, while thousands of protest cards addressed to President Bush from workers across the country were unveiled at the rally.

A new overtime petition has begun to help keep the pressure on on this issue until Congress returns. Members, their families and friends are urged to sign the petition opposing this massive paycut.

NSPS Implementation
Read the Bush Administration's scheme to circumvent Congress and unions in implementing NSPS. Although the documents originate from OPM, they confirm many of IFPTE's concerns with the original proposal, including OPM's stance that collective bargaining should be completely gutted.

Attacks on the Fair Labor Standards Act --Compensatory time legislation moving through Congress as well as proposed rule changes to the FLSA itself could have devastating effects on the members of IFPTE and the labor movement. Members are urged to act now!

UFCW Members Still on Strike
As the grocery workers strike goes into its fourth month, 70,000 UFCW members are still in need of strike support. IFPTE and some of its Locals have made donations to the strike fund, but more help is needed. Supporters may donate to the workers' strike fund by sending checks (made payable to the UFCW Strike Hardship Fund) to UFCW Strike Hardship Fund, Attn: Secretary-Treasurer Joe Hansen, 1775 K St., N.W., Washington, DC 20006, or donate online through the AFL-CIO. For more information about the Hold the Line for America's Health Care campaign, click here.

Commemorating our 85th year anniversary and continuing our progressive stance within the labor movement, the officers, Executive Council, and delegates to IFPTE’s 54th CONVENTION came together and demonstrated active unionism, highlighting our convention theme ‘STRENGTH THROUGH UNITY’. Delegates overwhelmingly passed critical resolutions, including but not limited to: outsourcing, overtime, and health care, while electing the first woman to hold the office of Secretary-Treasurer of the union. Seven new members were elected to our Executive Council, three of them being women. The convention was treated to speeches from Rich Trumka, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, Clayola Brown, Vice President of UNITE!, Hassan Yusseff, Secretary-Treasurer of the Canadian Labour Congress, and Paul E. Almeida, President of the Department for Professional Employees. The long awaited convention photos are now available online. To view the photos, members should send an email to ifpte@ifpte.org to request downloading instructions. Upon receipt of the information members can purchase convention photos ranging in price from $4.00 to $15.00 per photo. Download a copy of President Junemann’s speech, the Daily Outlook, and the Federal Caucus Reports.

President Greg Junemann is the featured columnist in the March 2003 issue of the American Income Life Insurance Company Labor Advisory Board’s ‘Labor Letter’.
In it President Junemann explains why the House of Labor must organize the fastest growing sector of the workforce—professional employees.

Majority Leader in the House, Congressman Tom Delay, issued a letter supporting the National-Right-to-Work Foundation and harshly condemning all labor unions.
President Junemann issued a response to the Congressman's false assertions and set the record straight. Read President Junemann's letter, excerpts from Congressman Delay's letter or our press release. Write a response to Congressman Delay.

Grievances Issues at General Electric
Members of Local 147 Give Overwhelming Support to Executive Board to Resolve Grievances Issues at General Electric. Download Local 147 Press Release (pdf) and International Press Release (pdf)

Senator Sarbanes Responds to President Junemann Regarding Changes to OMB's A-76 Circular -- Download pdf.

IFPTE Submits Its Response to Proposed Revisions to OMB Circular A-76 -- Download pdf.

IFPTE Releases Its Point Paper: 'The H-1B Guest-Worker Program--Prospects For the 108th Congress.' Download PDF -- IFPTE seeks your comments or questions on this issue.

UAL Engineering Employees Prepare for Bargaining with Troubled Carrier
On October 28, a majority of the 434 employees in the Engineering Bargaining Unit at United Airlines voted for union representation with IFPTE Local 20. Immediately upon receipt of the certification from the National Mediation Board, IFPTE notified United Airlines of our intent to commence bargaining for this former management group,
whose members are primarily located in Indianapolis, Oakland, San Francisco. Read more...