NTEU Chapter 228, Germantown, MD

06/20/2026

General Services Wage, DOE EJ and EK, Executive Branch Employees:

You are among hundreds of thousands of federal employees who benefit from strong union representation. Federal unions play a vital role in safeguarding the civil service from political interference, upholding whistleblower protections, and ensuring fair workplace practices.

It is vital that you join and support your union. Unions play a crucial role in protecting workers’ rights, negotiating better wages, ensuring safe working conditions, and providing a collective voice in the workplace. By joining and actively supporting your union, you help strengthen its ability to advocate for all members and contribute to a fairer, more equitable work environment.

Advocates emphasize that collective bargaining enhances agency efficiency, minimizes costly litigation, and helps retain experienced professionals who better serve the American public.

Federal unions focus on several key principles:

Political Independence: Unions protect merit-based hiring and shield federal employees from partisan retaliation or attempts to purge the civil service.

Workplace Protections: They guarantee due process, representation in disciplinary proceedings, and enforce strong workplace safety standards.

Negotiating Conditions: While federal law restricts unions from striking or negotiating base pay and benefits, unions can effectively negotiate workplace flexibilities such as telework, remote work, and shift scheduling.

Whistleblower Advocacy: Unions provide essential legal support for employees who report waste, fraud, or abuse within government.










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Solidarity

06/19/2026

Happy Juneteenth!

This holiday is a meaningful time to celebrate freedom and reflect on the ongoing journey toward unity and equality. It’s a moment to come together, honor the past, and appreciate how far we’ve come—while continuing to move forward with purpose.

As the saying reminds us, the only way not to repeat history is to remember it. By acknowledging, learning from, and sharing history, we can help ensure that past mistakes are not repeated and that progress continues for everyone.

Wishing you a wonderful and reflective day.

06/18/2026

We urge support for employees using personal vehicles on the job. Thank you, Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock, for co-sponsoring the call for a mid-year adjustment. https://bit.ly/4eqK4lE

06/17/2026

Happy Juneteenth

Sen. Warnock Joins NTEU’s Call for Mileage Reimbursement Boost

I want to share my perspective on the dedication of federal employees and the often-misunderstood issues of waste, fraud, or mismanagement.

I embarked on my federal career at a young age and eventually rose to the position of supervisor, leading a mailroom staff at the Department of State—a position that was eventually discontinued. The federal employees I worked with, those who were recently compelled to resign or retire, and the federal agencies and programs that were abolished, such as the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, which has always represented a truly diverse group—across race, gender, and background—contrary to what is sometimes portrayed in the media or public discourse, were dedicated employees.

Despite this diversity and the dedication these employees brought to their roles, my team, like many employees today, was targeted by an administration not unlike the one we see today. This included colleagues across the federal sector, especially those in offices of diversity and inclusion or those whose duties pertained to advancing those principles.

Despite these obstacles, federal employees remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the American public, working diligently and exceeding expectations even with minimal staffing. Adaptability is a core requirement in the public sector, and we continue to meet the challenges of change head-on. There have been efforts to eliminate federal jobs, and some individuals have even voted to do so. Yet, there is no evidence of widespread waste, fraud, or mismanagement. Ironically, many of the positions that were once removed are now being advertised again on USAJobs, underscoring their necessity.
I must respectfully disagree with the notion that federal employees are not valuable or necessary. Throughout my career, I have witnessed countless examples of dedication, integrity, and commitment among my colleagues. Federal employees deliver essential services and uphold the principles that keep our government running efficiently for all Americans.

While misconceptions and challenges persist, the value and necessity of federal employees cannot be overstated. Their work impacts millions of citizens daily and ensures that critical public services continue uninterrupted, regardless of political shifts. I am proud to serve alongside such dedicated professionals and remain fully committed to our shared mission of public service.

Federal employees cannot sustain their values without the support and dedication of our union. Let us continue to support federal unions and recognize the indispensable role we play in our nation’s success.

NTEU is Fighting for you

“In January 2026, when the current mileage reimbursement rate was set, average retail cost of gasoline was $2.93 per gallon. In May 2026, that cost rose to $4.60 per gallon. This places a significant burden on small business owners and workers,” the senator wrote in a letter to IRS leadership.”

Join the fight! Tell your members of Congress to reinstate telework—and ask your friends and family to do the same

Happy Juneteenth!

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06/16/2026

Happy Monday!

General Services Wage, DOE EJ and EK, Executive Branch Employees:

You are among hundreds of thousands of federal employees who benefit from strong union representation. Federal unions play a vital role in safeguarding the civil service from political interference, upholding whistleblower protections, and ensuring fair workplace practices.

It is vital that you join and support your union. Unions play a crucial role in protecting workers’ rights, negotiating better wages, ensuring safe working conditions, and providing a collective voice in the workplace. By joining and actively supporting your union, you help strengthen its ability to advocate for all members and contribute to a fairer, more equitable work environment.

Advocates emphasize that collective bargaining enhances agency efficiency, minimizes costly litigation, and helps retain experienced professionals who better serve the American public.

Federal unions focus on several key principles:

Political Independence: Unions protect merit-based hiring and shield federal employees from partisan retaliation or attempts to purge the civil service.

Workplace Protections: They guarantee due process, representation in disciplinary proceedings, and enforce strong workplace safety standards.

Negotiating Conditions: While federal law restricts unions from striking or negotiating base pay and benefits, unions can effectively negotiate workplace flexibilities such as telework, remote work, and shift scheduling.

Whistleblower Advocacy: Unions provide essential legal support for employees who report waste, fraud, or abuse within government.










Join NTEU

06/11/2026

NTEU Continues Fight to Protect Merit-Based Civil Service

The National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) is actively advocating for Executive Branch employees affected by the Schedule F policy. NTEU is firmly committed to pursuing litigation to ensure that federal employees continue to be hired and retained based on merit and skill, not partisan affiliation, so the American people receive reliable government services.

The Administration has escalated efforts to strip federal workers of congressionally granted rights, focusing on reclassifying certain positions to Schedule F—a new employment category designed to make it easier to dismiss employees. An official order has now transferred an unspecified number of employees to Schedule F, and as a result, litigation over this initiative will proceed.

There is confusion about the reach of the Executive Order. Some reports suggest all GS-13 to GS-15 positions are affected, but in reality, the order primarily targets senior employees who influence agency policy. If you do not influence agency policy or make agency policy decisions, but your job has been slated for Schedule F, contact your union office immediately.

This reclassification strips nonpartisan employees of traditional civil service protections, converting them into at-will employees subject to dismissal without the usual procedural safeguards or appeal rights. While some sources suggest that this impact extends to all GS-15 positions, the Executive Order should only mandate that agencies transfer senior, policy-influencing roles—primarily at the GS-13 to GS-15 levels—to Schedule F.

With the Administration’s order now in effect, making it easier to terminate these employees, NTEU’s litigation will continue. The union remains steadfast in defending a merit-based federal workforce and ensuring that government services are delivered by skilled, nonpartisan professionals.

The Administration continues to focus on trying to strip federal workers of the rights that Congress gave them instead of letting them do the jobs that the American people count on them to do. Now that the Administration has officially ordered the transfer of an untold number of employees to Schedul...

06/11/2026

Dues Direct Link

NTEU will continue to advocate for you, but we need your help. Supporting your union and paying your dues through DUES Direct is vital for protecting your workplace rights and benefits. Here’s why:

Whenever your agency proposes changes to workplace policies—such as performance measures, telework options, training, or other working conditions—your union steps in to represent your interests through a process called “Impact and Implementation (I&I) bargaining.” This negotiation ensures that any changes are fair and that your voice is heard.

By paying your dues, you help keep NTEU strong and effective. Your support empowers union leaders to advocate for you, challenge unfair policies, and secure better working conditions. DUES Direct makes your support seamless, so your union can focus on protecting your rights without interruption.

If you have not received your DUES Direct link, contact me ASAP, it is vital to protecting your workplace rights and benefits.

We believe federal employees deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

06/10/2026

Strong Voices

Federal unions remain active and continue to advocate for all federal employees. If you have not received your DUES Direct Link, please contact me as soon as possible so I can assist you promptly.

Federal employees need a strong voice. Paying your dues helps NTEU continue advocating on your behalf.

Employees should never be forced to work in an unhealthy environment or fear retaliation, demotion, or reprisal for voicing concerns. The Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA) and federal unions help safeguard these rights. Every workplace deserves a clear and safe path for employees to speak up and be heard. We must continue to fight for equality instead of accepting the status quo.

In conversations with federal employees—both managers and staff—many have expressed concerns about their future, work environment, and performance evaluations, despite their strong commitment to safeguarding America and its people. Some hesitate to file grievances, even when unfairly rated or mistreated, while others prefer to stay under the radar. These concerns underscore the need for more effective support systems and safer channels for employees to raise issues.

Federal government union duties focus on collective bargaining, workplace representation, and contract enforcement for federal employees. The NTEU operates under the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978.

The primary statutory duties and responsibilities of federal sector unions include the following:

* Exclusive Representation: Unions must represent every member of their bargaining unit, regardless of dues payment or active membership status.

* Collective Bargaining: Unions negotiate working conditions, health benefits, hours, vacation, and safety practices. Base compensation is generally not subject to negotiation, as it is governed by General Schedule laws and other federal statutes.

* Grievance Processing: Union representatives assist employees with administrative and negotiated grievance procedures, particularly in response to unjust disciplinary actions or workplace disputes.

* Statutory Enforcement: Unions monitor agencies to ensure compliance with labor laws, labor agreements, and agency policies. When agency management violates these standards, the union can file an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) with the Federal Labor Relations Authority

NTEU represents employees in 38 federal agencies and offices.

06/10/2026

Remember - The National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) is still active

Under 5 U.S.C. Chapter 71, federal civilian employees have the statutorily protected right to form, join, or assist a union, or to refrain from such activities. Unlike private-sector counterparts, federal unions cannot bargain over wages, benefits, or retirement, and strikes are strictly prohibited. [1, 2, 3]

Core Federal Union Rights & Laws

Federal employees operate under the Civil Service Reform Act with the following key provisions:

Right to Representation: According to 5 U.S.C. § 7114, unions granted exclusive recognition are the sole representatives for the employees in their unit. They have the right to negotiate collective bargaining agreements and represent employees in grievances. [1, 2]

Scope of Bargaining: Bargaining is generally limited to "conditions of employment". This includes items like personnel policies, working hours, and safety practices. It does not include base pay or government-wide benefits. [1, 2, 3]

Management Rights: Under 5 U.S.C. § 7106, federal agencies retain exclusive authority to determine their own mission, budget, organization, and number of employees. Management also retains the right to hire, assign, and fire employees.[1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Official Time: 5 U.S.C. § 7131 permits federal employees acting as union representatives to use paid "official time" to conduct union business, such as investigating grievances, if reasonable and in the public interest. [1]

Who is Covered?

The law applies to most non-postal federal executive branch employees. However, 5 U.S.C. § 7103 excludes several entities from these union rights. Employees in the FBI, CIA, NSA, the Government Accountability Office, the Secret Service, and the Tennessee Valley Authority generally do not fall under this labor-management statute. [1, 2]

For further details regarding how federal unions operate, you can review the full 5 U.S.C. Subchapter II or visit the Federal Labor Relations Authority resources. prelim@title5/part3/subpartF/chapter71&edition=prelim" rel="ugc" target="_blank">https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title5/part3/subpartF/chapter71&edition=prelim

06/10/2026

NTEU Dues Direct Link

It is crucial that you continue to support federal unions. This is important for several reasons, even considering the unique restrictions federal unions face compared to their private-sector counterparts:

1. Protection of Employee Rights: Federal unions provide a formal structure for employees to address workplace concerns, unfair treatment, or policy violations. They ensure due process and representation in disciplinary actions, grievances, and appeals.

2. Collective Voice on Workplace Conditions: While federal unions cannot bargain over wages or benefits, they play a crucial role in negotiating “conditions of employment”—including workplace safety, schedules, leave policies, telework arrangements, and other daily work matters. This collective bargaining helps improve the quality of federal workplaces for everyone.

3. Checks and Balances on Management: Federal unions act as an important check on agency management, ensuring that employee interests are considered in policy decisions. They help hold management accountable to fair procedures and transparent communication.

4. Advocacy and Official Time: Union representatives use “official time” to advocate for employees, investigate complaints, and work towards fair resolutions—all while being compensated. This system is designed to support productive labor-management relations and prevent costly disputes.

5. Statutory Protections: Federal law (5 U.S.C. Chapter 71) guarantees the right to organize, join, or assist a union, without fear of retaliation. This legal backing means unions are a secure avenue for employees seeking support or wishing to improve their workplace.

6. Promotion of Fairness and Equity: Unions help ensure that federal employment practices are consistent, equitable, and based on merit, rather than favoritism or arbitrary decisions. This leads to a more just and effective public service.

7. Broader Impact: A strong union presence can help shape agency culture, promote diversity and inclusion, and ensure that government workplaces reflect the values of public service.

In summary: Supporting a Federal Union means supporting your right to representation, a collective voice in the workplace, and a system that promotes fairness, transparency, and accountability for all federal employees—even within the statutory limits of federal labor law.

NTEU represents employees in 38 federal agencies and offices.