Common use of Union Rights and Representation Clause in Contracts

Union Rights and Representation. Section 1 - The Union is the exclusive representative of the employees in the bargaining unit and is entitled to act for and negotiate agreements covering all of the employees in the bargaining unit. Management will not communicate directly with employees regarding changes to conditions of employment for which there is an obligation to bargain. A. The Employer agrees to respect the rights of the Union and to meet jointly and negotiate with the Union, when requested, regarding formulation and implementation of any new policy or change in existing policy affecting employees or their conditions of employment, except as provided by law. B. The union, in consonance with its right to represent, has a right to propose new policies, changes in policies, or resolutions to problems in accordance with Article 8, Section 2. This right shall apply at all levels of management within the agency and the labor organization starting with the Xxxxxxx and first level supervisor. Representation will normally occur at the lowest level at which a matter can be resolved, and the initial point of contact will normally be the lowest management official and Union official having responsibility and authority to act. If either party at the initial contact feels resolution of a matter is outside its jurisdiction, the matter shall be referred immediately to the next higher level. C. Consistent with law, government-wide regulations and this agreement, the Union has the exclusive right to represent an employee or group of employees in presenting complaints. An employee or group of employees may present a grievance themselves without representation by the Union provided the local is a party to all discussions and the grievance proceeding. The Employer will notify the Local President or designee before such discussions are held. The NFFE shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representatives shall be permitted to present the views of the local during the discussions. D. The Union has the right to have a representative present at all discussions between the Employer and an employee or employees, held in the course of proceedings conducted to resolve complaints or grievances submitted by a member of the Unit. The Employer will notify the Local President or designee before such discussions are held. The NFFE shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representative shall be permitted to present the views of the Local during the discussions. Section 2 - Management agrees to recognize Union representatives including National Federation of Federal Employees VA Council and local union and national office officials. The Council will supply VA Headquarters in writing, and will maintain on a current basis, a list of officers. The Union at the facility level will supply the facility in writing, and will maintain on a current basis, a list of officers and stewards. A. The Union will be given the opportunity to be represented at any formal discussion between one or more representatives of the Department and one or more employees in the unit or their representatives concerning any grievance or any personnel policy or practices or other general condition of employment. B. The Union shall be given the opportunity to be represented under 7114(a)(2)(B) at any examination of an employee in the unit by a representative of the Department in connection with an investigation if: (1) the employee reasonably believes that the examination may result in disciplinary action against the employee; and (2) the employee requests representation. C. The parties agree that mission accomplishment is of primary concern to both, and that improved communication and cooperation between the parties can contribute to the solution of mutual problems, and improved employee relations. Representatives of each party will meet on a regular basis to discuss labor management issues. Such meetings should be held monthly, quarterly, or as local parties agree. Each party shall submit a list of subjects they wish to discuss normally 10 days in advance of the meeting. Summary minutes reflecting items discussed should be prepared unless mutually agreed otherwise. These meetings will be conducted during regular duty hours with Union representatives authorized official time if otherwise in a duty status. Additional arrangements concerning these meetings may be negotiated at the local level. Section 4 - A union representative wishing to use official time will notify his/her immediate supervisor. Such release will not be arbitrarily withheld. The supervisor must be advised of the general purpose of the request (whether the issue is a grievance, negotiations, investigation of a complaint, EEO, etc.), how the representative may be contacted and the estimated time of return. If the union representative will be delayed beyond the estimated time, he/she will notify the immediate supervisor to request additional needed time. The supervisory will also be notified of the return. If release is not possible at the time requested, due to a work requirement which is pressing, the representative will be released as soon as possible thereafter. If there is an operational necessity that prevents the representative from being released immediately, arrangements will be made for the employee to be released normally within the next tour of duty, or the Union may opt to assign another representative. All grievance time frames and meetings with employees shall be delayed if delay in granting the requested permission to leave causes either to be missed. Union representatives will be allowed a reasonable amount of time to notify the Union when they are assigned to a workplace other than their normally assigned workplace and they need to keep the union informed of their whereabouts. Section 5 - There shall be no restraint, coercion, or discrimination against any union official because of the performance of duties in consonance with this Agreement and the Statute, or against any employee for filing a complaint or acting as a witness under the Agreement, the Statute, or applicable regulations. Section 6 - The Department agrees to meet with the VA Council Officers annually to discuss Union views on items of concern and agrees to review those items that cannot be resolved at the meeting. A. During years in which the Council does not hold its convention, the parties will meet in Washington. The Council shall request the meeting, with a preliminary agenda, at least four (4) weeks in advance so that arrangements can be made for the Council officers’ absence from their duties. The Department will provide official time, if otherwise in a duty status, and travel and per diem expenses for up to nine (9) Council officers. The meeting will not exceed one day unless through mutual agreement it is extended. B. During convention years, Management agrees to meet with the Council Officers (up to 9) on the day prior to the beginning of the Council convention. The nine (9) Council officers attending this meeting will be provided official time if otherwise in a duty status, for the day of this meeting. Other VA employees may attend the meeting but they will not be provided excused absence without charge to leave. This does not preclude approval of time for training under other portions of this contract. Management agrees to make every effort to arrange schedules so as to allow the nine (9) designated Council representatives to take annual leave or leave without pay during the convention and annual meeting years to the extent the workload allows. The nine (9) representatives should notify management sufficiently in advance so that suitable scheduling can be arranged. A. Internal Union business such as attending local union meetings will be conducted during the non-duty hours of the employees involved. B. Each local shall be allowed two membership drives not to exceed 15 work days each per calendar year. These membership drives can be conducted at times available to all employees. Requests for the equipment and facilities needed will be directed to the facility director or designee at least ten (10) work days prior to the commencement of the membership drive(s). Details regarding space, equipment, use of facilities, and other related matters are proper subjects for local supplemental negotiations.

Union Rights and Representation. Section 1 - 1. Non-employee representatives of the Union shall have the right to enter the facilities of the Employer and visit with the employees covered by this agreement for the purpose of ascertaining whether the agreement is being observed by the parties and for the purpose of investigating and processing grievances in accordance with the Grievance Procedure contained herein. Union representatives shall notify the Health Commissioner in advance before entering the premises of the Employer. The non-employee union representative must have permission from the Commissioner or his designee; however, such permission shall not be unreasonably denied. Section 2. The Employer recognizes the right of the Union to select local officers, stewards, and alternate stewards to represent the employees on grievances arising under the agreement. Union representatives will also represent employees at predisciplinary hearings, grievance and arbitration hearings, labor management meetings and contract negotiations. The affected employee and union representative shall not suffer any loss of pay for activities conducted during their normal working hours and under the same standards as set forth in Article 7, Section 5. Section 3. The Union shall provide the Employer an official roster of its local officers, committee representatives, assigned Union representatives and stewards, which is to be kept current at all times by the exclusive Union and shall include the name, position held, jurisdiction area (for stewards only), and the work address and phone number of non-employee representatives. Section 4. The Union agrees that no representative of the employees in Union, either employee or non- employee, shall interfere with, interrupt, or disrupt the bargaining unit and is entitled to act for and negotiate agreements covering all normal work duties of the employees in the bargaining unit. Management will not communicate directly with employees regarding changes to conditions of employment for which there is an obligation to bargainemployees. A. Section 5. The Employer agrees to respect the rights of the Union and to meet jointly and negotiate with provide the Union, when requestedupon reasonable request, regarding formulation and implementation the County of any new policy or change in existing policy affecting employees or their conditions of employmentMahoning, except as provided by lawGeneral Health District, Cash Basis, Annual Financial Report. B. The union, in consonance with its right to represent, has a right to propose new policies, changes in policies, or resolutions to problems in accordance with Article 8, Section 2. This right shall apply at all levels of management within the agency and the labor organization starting with the Xxxxxxx and first level supervisor. Representation will normally occur at the lowest level at which a matter can be resolved, and the initial point of contact will normally be the lowest management official and Union official having responsibility and authority to act. If either party at the initial contact feels resolution of a matter is outside its jurisdiction, the matter shall be referred immediately to the next higher level. C. Consistent with law, government-wide regulations and this agreement, the Union has the exclusive right to represent an employee or group of employees in presenting complaints. An employee or group of employees may present a grievance themselves without representation by the Union provided the local is a party to all discussions and the grievance proceeding6. The Employer will notify agrees to permit the Local President or designee before such discussions are heldUnion reasonable usage of the Employer’s telephone and employee work email. The NFFE shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representatives shall be permitted to present the views Union’s usage of the local during employee work email shall not place the discussions. D. The Employer’s computer system at undue risk and the Union has recognizes that there is no right of privacy with regard to the right to have a representative present at all discussions between the Employer and an employee or employees, held in the course of proceedings conducted to resolve complaints or grievances submitted by a member usage of the UnitEmployer’s computers. The Employer will notify agrees to permit the Local President or designee before such discussions are held. The NFFE Union access to the copy machine on a reasonable and limited basis; however, no extensive copying (i.e., more than 20 pages produced) shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representative shall be permitted to present take place without the views express permission of the Local during the discussionsEmployer. Section 2 - Management agrees to recognize Union representatives including National Federation of Federal Employees VA Council and local union and national office officials. The Council will supply VA Headquarters in writing, and will maintain on a current basis, a list of officers. The Union at the facility level will supply the facility in writing, and will maintain on a current basis, a list of officers and stewards. A. The Union will be given the opportunity to be represented at any formal discussion between one or more representatives of the Department and one or more employees in the unit or their representatives concerning any grievance or any personnel policy or practices or other general condition of employment. B. The Union shall be given the opportunity to be represented under 7114(a)(2)(B) at any examination of an employee in the unit by a representative of the Department in connection with an investigation if: (1) the employee reasonably believes that the examination may result in disciplinary action against the employee; and (2) the employee requests representation. C. The parties agree that mission accomplishment is of primary concern to both, and that improved communication and cooperation between the parties can contribute to the solution of mutual problems, and improved employee relations. Representatives of each party will meet on a regular basis to discuss labor management issues. Such meetings should be held monthly, quarterly, or as local parties agree. Each party shall submit a list of subjects they wish to discuss normally 10 days in advance of the meeting. Summary minutes reflecting items discussed should be prepared unless mutually agreed otherwise. These meetings will be conducted during regular duty hours with Union representatives authorized official time if otherwise in a duty status. Additional arrangements concerning these meetings may be negotiated at the local level. Section 4 - A union representative wishing to use official time will notify his/her immediate supervisor. Such release will not be arbitrarily withheld. The supervisor must be advised of the general purpose of the request (whether the issue is a grievance, negotiations, investigation of a complaint, EEO, etc.), how the representative may be contacted and the estimated time of return. If the union representative will be delayed beyond the estimated time, he/she will notify the immediate supervisor to request additional needed time. The supervisory will also be notified of the return. If release is not possible at the time requested, due to a work requirement which is pressing, the representative will be released as soon as possible thereafter. If there is an operational necessity that prevents the representative from being released immediately, arrangements will be made for the employee to be released normally within the next tour of duty, or the Union may opt to assign another representative. All grievance time frames and meetings with employees shall be delayed if delay in granting the requested permission to leave causes either to be missed. Union representatives will be allowed a reasonable amount of time to notify the Union when they are assigned to a workplace other than their normally assigned workplace and they need to keep the union informed of their whereabouts. Section 5 - There shall be no restraint, coercion, or discrimination against any union official because of the performance of duties in consonance with this Agreement and the Statute, or against any employee for filing a complaint or acting as a witness under the Agreement, the Statute, or applicable regulations. Section 6 - The Department agrees to meet with the VA Council Officers annually to discuss Union views on items of concern and agrees to review those items that cannot be resolved at the meeting. A. During years in which the Council does not hold its convention, the parties will meet in Washington. The Council shall request the meeting, with a preliminary agenda, at least four (4) weeks in advance so that arrangements can be made for the Council officers’ absence from their duties. The Department will provide official time, if otherwise in a duty status, and travel and per diem expenses for up to nine (9) Council officers. The meeting will not exceed one day unless through mutual agreement it is extended. B. During convention years, Management agrees to meet with the Council Officers (up to 9) on the day prior to the beginning of the Council convention. The nine (9) Council officers attending this meeting will be provided official time if otherwise in a duty status, for the day of this meeting. Other VA employees may attend the meeting but they will not be provided excused absence without charge to leave. This does not preclude approval of time for training under other portions of this contract. Management agrees to make every effort to arrange schedules so as to allow the nine (9) designated Council representatives to take annual leave or leave without pay during the convention and annual meeting years to the extent the workload allows. The nine (9) representatives should notify management sufficiently in advance so that suitable scheduling can be arranged. A. Internal Union business such as attending local union meetings will be conducted during the non-duty hours of the employees involved. B. Each local shall be allowed two membership drives not to exceed 15 work days each per calendar year. These membership drives can be conducted at times available to all employees. Requests for the equipment and facilities needed will be directed to the facility director or designee at least ten (10) work days prior to the commencement of the membership drive(s). Details regarding space, equipment, use of facilities, and other related matters are proper subjects for local supplemental negotiations.

Union Rights and Representation. Section 1 - 1. The Union is the exclusive representative of the employees in the bargaining unit and is entitled to act for and negotiate agreements covering all of the employees in the bargaining unit. Management The Employer will not communicate directly with employees regarding changes to conditions of employment for which there is an obligation to bargain. A. The Employer agrees to respect the rights of the Union and to meet jointly and negotiate with the Union, when requested, regarding formulation and implementation of any new policy or change in existing policy affecting employees or their conditions of employment, except as provided by law. B. The unionUnion, in consonance accordance with its right to represent, has a right to propose new policiespractices, changes in policiespractices, or resolutions to problems in accordance with Article 8, Section 2. This right shall apply at all levels of management within the agency and the labor organization starting with the Xxxxxxx and first level supervisorthis Article. Representation will normally occur at the lowest level at which a matter can be resolved, and the initial point of contact will normally be the lowest management Management official and Union official representative having responsibility and authority to act. If either party Party at the initial contact feels resolution of a matter is outside its jurisdiction, the matter shall be referred immediately to the next higher level. C. Consistent with law, governmentGovernment-wide regulations regulation, and this agreementAgreement, the Union has the exclusive right to represent an employee or group of employees in presenting complaints. An employee or group of employees may present a grievance themselves without representation by the Union provided the local Union is a party to all formal discussions and the grievance proceedingmeetings. The Employer will notify the Local President Chief Xxxxxxx, or designee designee, before such discussions are held. The NFFE Union shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representatives representative shall be permitted to present the views of the local Union during the discussions. D. The Union has the right to have a representative present at all discussions between the Employer and an employee or employees, held in the course of proceedings conducted to resolve complaints or grievances submitted by a member of the Unitunit. Section 2. The Employer will notify the Local President or designee before such discussions are held. The NFFE shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representative shall be permitted to present the views of the Local during the discussions. Section 2 - Management agrees to recognize Union representatives including National Federation of Federal Employees VA Council local union, district, and local union and national office regional officials. The Council Employer will supply VA Headquarters authorize official time for Union representatives in writingaccordance with Article X section X etc.. The Union will supply, and will maintain on a current basis, a the Employer with an electronic list of officers. The Union at the facility level will supply the facility in writing, and will maintain on a current basis, a list of officers and stewardsrepresentatives. A. The Union will be given the opportunity to be represented at any formal discussion between one or more representatives of the Department management and one or more employees in the unit or their representatives concerning any grievance or any personnel policy or practices or other general condition of employment. B. The Union shall be given the opportunity to be represented under 7114(a)(2)(B) at any examination of an employee in the unit by a representative of the Department Employer in connection with an investigation if: (: 1) . the employee reasonably believes that the examination may result in disciplinary action against the employee; and (and 2) . the employee requests representation. C. representation thereby invoking his/her Xxxxxxxxxx Rights. The parties agree that mission accomplishment is of primary concern Employer agrees to both, and that improved communication and cooperation between normally give the parties can contribute Union up to the solution of mutual problems, and improved employee relations. Representatives of each party will meet on 24 hours to provide a regular basis to discuss labor management issues. Such meetings should be held monthly, quarterly, or as local parties agree. Each party shall submit a list of subjects they wish to discuss normally 10 days in advance of the meeting. Summary minutes reflecting items discussed should be prepared unless mutually agreed otherwise. These meetings will be conducted during regular duty hours with Union representatives authorized official time if otherwise in a duty status. Additional arrangements concerning these meetings may be negotiated at the local levelrepresentative. Section 4 - 4. A union Union representative wishing to use official time will notify his/her immediate supervisor. Such release will not be arbitrarily withheld. The supervisor must be advised of the general purpose of the request (whether the issue is a grievance, negotiations, investigation of a complaint, EEO, etc.), how the representative may be contacted and the estimated time of return. If the union Union representative will be delayed beyond the estimated time, he/she will notify the immediate supervisor to request additional needed time. The supervisory supervisor will also be notified of upon the representative’s return. If release is not possible at the time requested, due to a work requirement which is pressing, the representative will be released as soon as possible thereafter. If there is an operational necessity that prevents the representative from being released immediately, arrangements will be made for the employee to be released normally within the next tour of dutynot later than 24 hours, or the Union at their own request may opt to assign another representative. All grievance time frames and meetings with employees shall be delayed if delay in granting the requested permission to leave causes either to be missed. Union representatives will be allowed a reasonable amount of time to notify the Union when they are assigned to a workplace other than their normally assigned workplace and they need to keep the union informed of their whereaboutsworkplace. Section 5 - 5. There shall be no restraint, coercion, or discrimination against any union official Union representative because of the performance of duties in consonance accordance with this Agreement and the Statute, or against any employee for filing a complaint or acting as a witness under the Agreement, the Statute, or applicable regulations. Section 6 - The Department agrees to meet with the VA Council Officers annually to discuss Union views on items of concern and agrees to review those items that cannot be resolved at the meeting. A. During years in which the Council does not hold its convention, the parties will meet in Washington. The Council shall request the meeting, with a preliminary agenda, at least four (4) weeks in advance so that arrangements can be made for the Council officers’ absence from their duties. The Department will provide official time, if otherwise in a duty status, and travel and per diem expenses for up to nine (9) Council officers. The meeting will not exceed one day unless through mutual agreement it is extended. B. During convention years, Management agrees to meet with the Council Officers (up to 9) on the day prior to the beginning of the Council convention. The nine (9) Council officers attending this meeting will be provided official time if otherwise in a duty status, for the day of this meeting. Other VA employees may attend the meeting but they will not be provided excused absence without charge to leave. This does not preclude approval of time for training under other portions of this contract. Management agrees to make every effort to arrange schedules so as to allow the nine (9) designated Council representatives to take annual leave or leave without pay during the convention and annual meeting years to the extent the workload allows. The nine (9) representatives should notify management sufficiently in advance so that suitable scheduling can be arranged. A. Internal Union business such as attending local union meetings will be conducted during the non-duty hours of the employees involved. B. Each local shall be allowed two membership drives not to exceed 15 work days each per calendar year. These membership drives can be conducted at times available to all employees. Requests for the equipment and facilities needed will be directed to the facility director or designee at least ten (10) work days prior to the commencement of the membership drive(s). Details regarding space, equipment, use of facilities, and other related matters are proper subjects for local supplemental negotiations.

Union Rights and Representation. Section 1 - 3.1. The employer shall grant reasonable access to non-employee representatives of the Union to attend meetings or perform duties, to the extent the meetings or duties are specifically allowed by this Agreement. Such permission shall not be withheld unreasonably. Section 3.2. The Union shall designate no more than one (1) member to serve as xxxxxxx for its bargaining unit members. The xxxxxxx shall be recognized by the Employer. An alternate xxxxxxx shall be named to serve when the xxxxxxx is not available. The Local President or designee may serve as the exclusive employee’s representative in the absence of the employees in xxxxxxx or xxxxxxx designee. Section 3.3. The Union shall provide the bargaining unit Employer an official roster of its local officers, assigned Union Representatives, and xxxxxxx, which is entitled to act for be kept current at all times by the Union and negotiate agreements covering all shall include the following: 1. Name 2. Jurisdictional area 3. Union position held 4. Work address and phone number of non-employee representatives No employee shall be recognized as a Union representative until the Union has presented the Employer with written notice of that person’s selection. Section 3.4. Stewards or their designees, shall be granted a reasonable amount of paid time to investigate or process grievances. Stewards, or their designees, must first obtain permission from Management to investigate or process grievances on paid time. Such permission shall not be unreasonably denied. The writing and investigating of grievances shall be on non-work time, except where the employee has the permission of the employees in City Manager or Manager’s designee, to investigate a grievance during work time. In no event shall time spent writing grievances or investigating grievances be considered as overtime or paid time outside the bargaining unitemployee’s regular working hours. Management will may grant permission to stewards, or their designees, to investigate or process grievances on paid time. Section 3.5. Rules governing the activity of Union representation are as follows: A. The Union agrees that no official of the Union, employee or non-employee, shall interfere with, interrupt, or disrupt the normal work duties of employees. The Union further agrees not communicate directly with employees regarding changes to conditions conduct business during working hours, except to the extent specifically authorized herein. B. The Union representatives shall not enter any work areas of employment for which there is an obligation to bargainthe Employer without obtaining permission from the City Manager or Manager’s Designee, and shall not conduct Union activities outside of the scope of the permission. A. The Employer employer agrees to respect the rights of provide the Union and to meet jointly and negotiate with one bulletin board for the exclusive use of the Union, when requested, regarding formulation and implementation of any new policy or change in existing policy affecting employees or their conditions of employment, except as provided by lawto be located at mutually agreed locations. B. The unionNo defamatory, in consonance with its right to represent, has a right to propose new policies, changes in policiesobscene, or resolutions to problems politically partisan material shall be posted on the bulletin board. Material posted in accordance with Article 8, Section 2. This right shall apply at all levels violation of management within this section may be removed by the agency Employer and the labor organization starting with the Xxxxxxx and first level supervisor. Representation will normally occur at the lowest level at which a matter can be resolved, and the initial point of contact will normally be the lowest management official and Union official having responsibility and authority to act. If either responsible party at the initial contact feels resolution of a matter is outside its jurisdiction, the matter shall be referred immediately to the next higher leveldisciplined if appropriate. C. Consistent with law, government-wide regulations All postings must bear the date of posting and this agreement, the Union has the exclusive right to represent an employee or group of employees in presenting complaints. An employee or group of employees may present a grievance themselves without representation by the Union provided the local is a party to all discussions and the grievance proceeding. The Employer will notify the Local President or designee before such discussions are held. The NFFE shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representatives shall be permitted to present the views signature of the local during Union Official or xxxxxxx who is responsible for the discussionsposting. D. The Union has may post the right to have a representative present at all discussions between the Employer and an employee or employees, held in the course of proceedings conducted to resolve complaints or grievances submitted by a member following items without prior permission of the UnitEmployer: 1. The Employer will notify the Local President Notices of Union meetings; 2. Notices of elections; 3. Notices of social or designee before such discussions are heldrecreational events; 4. The NFFE shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representativeNotices of conferences or conventions; 5. The representative shall be permitted to present the views Notices of the Local during the discussionsappointment of Union representatives; 6. Notices of City job vacancies. Section 2 - Management agrees to recognize Union representatives including National Federation of Federal Employees VA Council and local union and national office officials3.7. The Council will supply VA Headquarters in writing, City agrees that it shall compensate up to three bargaining unit members who are regularly assigned members of the Union’s negotiating committee up to 16 paid hours each to attend joint City and will maintain on Union negotiation sessions for the purposes of negotiating a current basis, a list successor collective bargaining agreement. Such compensation shall be at the member’s hourly rate of officerspay and shall not count as hours worked for purposes of overtime compensation. The Union at agrees that it shall inform the facility level will supply City prior to the facility in writing, and will maintain on a current basis, a list of officers and stewards. A. The Union will be given first joint negotiation session the opportunity to be represented at any formal discussion between one or more representatives names of the Department members who are assigned to the Union’s negotiation committee and one or more employees in the unit or their representatives concerning any grievance or any personnel policy or practices or other general condition of employment. B. The who are expected to attend joint City and Union negotiation sessions and who shall be given eligible for compensation under this Section. Failure to notify the opportunity to be represented under 7114(a)(2)(B) at any examination of an employee in the unit by a representative of the Department in connection with an investigation if: (1) the employee reasonably believes that the examination may result in disciplinary action against the employee; and (2) the employee requests representation. C. The parties agree that mission accomplishment is of primary concern to both, and that improved communication and cooperation between the parties can contribute to the solution of mutual problems, and improved employee relations. Representatives of each party will meet on a regular basis to discuss labor management issues. Such meetings should be held monthly, quarterly, or as local parties agree. Each party shall submit a list of subjects they wish to discuss normally 10 days City in advance of the meetingfirst joint negotiation session as required by this Section shall result in the forfeiture of compensation under this Section. Summary minutes reflecting items discussed should In no case shall the City be prepared unless mutually agreed otherwise. These meetings will be conducted during regular duty hours with Union representatives authorized official time if otherwise in a duty status. Additional arrangements concerning these meetings may be negotiated at the local level. Section 4 - A union representative wishing obligated to use official time will notify his/her immediate supervisor. Such release will not be arbitrarily withheld. The supervisor must be advised pay any member of the general purpose Union’s negotiating committee for more than 16 hours of pay regardless of the request (whether time spent by the issue is member negotiating a grievance, negotiations, investigation of a complaint, EEO, etcsuccessor collective bargaining agreement.), how the representative may be contacted and the estimated time of return. If the union representative will be delayed beyond the estimated time, he/she will notify the immediate supervisor to request additional needed time. The supervisory will also be notified of the return. If release is not possible at the time requested, due to a work requirement which is pressing, the representative will be released as soon as possible thereafter. If there is an operational necessity that prevents the representative from being released immediately, arrangements will be made for the employee to be released normally within the next tour of duty, or the Union may opt to assign another representative. All grievance time frames and meetings with employees shall be delayed if delay in granting the requested permission to leave causes either to be missed. Union representatives will be allowed a reasonable amount of time to notify the Union when they are assigned to a workplace other than their normally assigned workplace and they need to keep the union informed of their whereabouts. Section 5 - There shall be no restraint, coercion, or discrimination against any union official because of the performance of duties in consonance with this Agreement and the Statute, or against any employee for filing a complaint or acting as a witness under the Agreement, the Statute, or applicable regulations. Section 6 - The Department agrees to meet with the VA Council Officers annually to discuss Union views on items of concern and agrees to review those items that cannot be resolved at the meeting. A. During years in which the Council does not hold its convention, the parties will meet in Washington. The Council shall request the meeting, with a preliminary agenda, at least four (4) weeks in advance so that arrangements can be made for the Council officers’ absence from their duties. The Department will provide official time, if otherwise in a duty status, and travel and per diem expenses for up to nine (9) Council officers. The meeting will not exceed one day unless through mutual agreement it is extended. B. During convention years, Management agrees to meet with the Council Officers (up to 9) on the day prior to the beginning of the Council convention. The nine (9) Council officers attending this meeting will be provided official time if otherwise in a duty status, for the day of this meeting. Other VA employees may attend the meeting but they will not be provided excused absence without charge to leave. This does not preclude approval of time for training under other portions of this contract. Management agrees to make every effort to arrange schedules so as to allow the nine (9) designated Council representatives to take annual leave or leave without pay during the convention and annual meeting years to the extent the workload allows. The nine (9) representatives should notify management sufficiently in advance so that suitable scheduling can be arranged. A. Internal Union business such as attending local union meetings will be conducted during the non-duty hours of the employees involved. B. Each local shall be allowed two membership drives not to exceed 15 work days each per calendar year. These membership drives can be conducted at times available to all employees. Requests for the equipment and facilities needed will be directed to the facility director or designee at least ten (10) work days prior to the commencement of the membership drive(s). Details regarding space, equipment, use of facilities, and other related matters are proper subjects for local supplemental negotiations.

Union Rights and Representation. Section 1 - The Union is the exclusive representative of the employees in the bargaining unit and is entitled to act for and negotiate agreements covering all of the employees in the bargaining unit. Management The Employer will not communicate directly with employees regarding changes to conditions of employment for which there is an obligation to bargain. A. The Employer agrees to respect the rights of the Union and to meet jointly and negotiate with the Union, when requested, regarding formulation and the implementation of any new policy or change in existing policy affecting employees or their conditions of employment, except as provided by law. B. The union, in consonance with Employer agrees to meet its right to represent, has a right to propose new policies, labor-management obligations when it proposes changes in policies, working conditions that impact the employees in one or resolutions to problems in accordance with Article 8, Section 2. This right shall apply at all levels of management within the agency and the labor organization starting with the Xxxxxxx and first level supervisor. Representation will normally occur at the lowest level at which a matter can be resolved, and the initial point of contact will normally be the lowest management official and Union official having responsibility and authority to act. If either party at the initial contact feels resolution of a matter is outside its jurisdiction, the matter shall be referred immediately to the next higher levelmore NFFE bargaining units. C. Consistent with law, government-wide regulations and this agreementAgreement, the Union has the exclusive right to represent an employee or group of employees in presenting complaints. An employee or group of employees may present a grievance themselves without representation by the Union provided the local Local is a party to all discussions and the grievance proceeding. The Employer will notify the Local President president or designee before such discussions are held. The NFFE shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representatives shall be permitted to present the views of the local during the discussions. D. The Union has the right to have a representative present at all discussions between the Employer and an employee or employees, held in the course of proceedings conducted to resolve complaints or grievances submitted by a member of the Unit. The Employer will notify the Local President or designee before such discussions are held. The NFFE shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representative shall be permitted to present the views of the Local during the discussions. Section 2 - Management agrees D. The Union has the right to recognize Union representatives including National Federation have a representative present at all discussions between the Employer and an employee or employees held in the course of Federal Employees VA Council and local union and national office officialsproceedings conducted to resolve complaints or grievances submitted under this Agreement by a member of the bargaining unit. The Council Employer will supply VA Headquarters in writing, and will maintain on a current basis, a list of officersnotify the local president or designee before such discussions are held. The Union at shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representative shall be permitted to present the facility level will supply the facility in writing, and will maintain on a current basis, a list of officers and stewards. A. The Union will be given the opportunity to be represented at any formal discussion between one or more representatives views of the Department and one or more employees in the unit or their representatives concerning any grievance or any personnel policy or practices or other general condition of employment. B. The Union shall be given the opportunity to be represented under 7114(a)(2)(B) at any examination of an employee in the unit by a representative of the Department in connection with an investigation if: (1) the employee reasonably believes that the examination may result in disciplinary action against the employee; and (2) the employee requests representation. C. The parties agree that mission accomplishment is of primary concern to both, and that improved communication and cooperation between the parties can contribute to the solution of mutual problems, and improved employee relations. Representatives of each party will meet on a regular basis to discuss labor management issues. Such meetings should be held monthly, quarterly, or as local parties agree. Each party shall submit a list of subjects they wish to discuss normally 10 days in advance of the meeting. Summary minutes reflecting items discussed should be prepared unless mutually agreed otherwise. These meetings will be conducted during regular duty hours with Union representatives authorized official time if otherwise in a duty status. Additional arrangements concerning these meetings may be negotiated at the local level. Section 4 - A union representative wishing to use official time will notify his/her immediate supervisor. Such release will not be arbitrarily withheld. The supervisor must be advised of the general purpose of the request (whether the issue is a grievance, negotiations, investigation of a complaint, EEO, etc.), how the representative may be contacted and the estimated time of return. If the union representative will be delayed beyond the estimated time, he/she will notify the immediate supervisor to request additional needed time. The supervisory will also be notified of the return. If release is not possible at the time requested, due to a work requirement which is pressing, the representative will be released as soon as possible thereafter. If there is an operational necessity that prevents the representative from being released immediately, arrangements will be made for the employee to be released normally within the next tour of duty, or the Union may opt to assign another representative. All grievance time frames and meetings with employees shall be delayed if delay in granting the requested permission to leave causes either to be missed. Union representatives will be allowed a reasonable amount of time to notify the Union when they are assigned to a workplace other than their normally assigned workplace and they need to keep the union informed of their whereabouts. Section 5 - There shall be no restraint, coercion, or discrimination against any union official because of the performance of duties in consonance with this Agreement and the Statute, or against any employee for filing a complaint or acting as a witness under the Agreement, the Statute, or applicable regulations. Section 6 - The Department agrees to meet with the VA Council Officers annually to discuss Union views on items of concern and agrees to review those items that cannot be resolved at the meeting. A. During years in which the Council does not hold its convention, the parties will meet in Washington. The Council shall request the meeting, with a preliminary agenda, at least four (4) weeks in advance so that arrangements can be made for the Council officers’ absence from their duties. The Department will provide official time, if otherwise in a duty status, and travel and per diem expenses for up to nine (9) Council officers. The meeting will not exceed one day unless through mutual agreement it is extended. B. During convention years, Management agrees to meet with the Council Officers (up to 9) on the day prior to the beginning of the Council convention. The nine (9) Council officers attending this meeting will be provided official time if otherwise in a duty status, for the day of this meeting. Other VA employees may attend the meeting but they will not be provided excused absence without charge to leave. This does not preclude approval of time for training under other portions of this contract. Management agrees to make every effort to arrange schedules so as to allow the nine (9) designated Council representatives to take annual leave or leave without pay Local during the convention and annual meeting years to the extent the workload allows. The nine (9) representatives should notify management sufficiently in advance so that suitable scheduling can be arrangeddiscussions. A. Internal Union business such as attending local union meetings will be conducted during the non-duty hours of the employees involved. B. Each local shall be allowed two membership drives not to exceed 15 work days each per calendar year. These membership drives can be conducted at times available to all employees. Requests for the equipment and facilities needed will be directed to the facility director or designee at least ten (10) work days prior to the commencement of the membership drive(s). Details regarding space, equipment, use of facilities, and other related matters are proper subjects for local supplemental negotiations.

Union Rights and Representation. Section 1 - The Union is the exclusive representative of the employees in the bargaining unit and is entitled to act for and negotiate agreements covering all of the employees in the bargaining unit. Management The Employer will not communicate directly with employees regarding changes to conditions of employment for which there is an obligation to bargain. A. The Employer agrees to respect the rights of the Union and to meet jointly and negotiate with the Union, when requested, regarding formulation and the implementation of any new policy or change in existing policy affecting employees or their conditions of employment, except as provided by law. B. The union, in consonance with employees agree to meet its right to represent, has a right to propose new policies, labor-management obligations when it proposes changes in policies, working conditions that impact the employees in one or resolutions to problems in accordance with Article 8, Section 2. This right shall apply at all levels of management within the agency and the labor organization starting with the Xxxxxxx and first level supervisor. Representation will normally occur at the lowest level at which a matter can be resolved, and the initial point of contact will normally be the lowest management official and Union official having responsibility and authority to act. If either party at the initial contact feels resolution of a matter is outside its jurisdiction, the matter shall be referred immediately to the next higher levelmore NFFE bargaining units. C. Consistent with law, government-wide regulations and this agreementAgreement, the Union has the exclusive right to represent an employee or group of employees in presenting complaints. An employee or group of employees may present a grievance themselves without representation by the Union provided the local Local is a party to all discussions and the grievance proceeding. The Employer will notify the Local President president or designee before such discussions are held. The NFFE shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representatives shall be permitted to present the views of the local during the discussions. D. The Union has the right to have a representative present at all discussions between the Employer and an employee or employees, held in the course of proceedings conducted to resolve complaints or grievances submitted by a member of the Unit. The Employer will notify the Local President or designee before such discussions are held. The NFFE shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representative shall be permitted to present the views of the Local during the discussions. Section 2 - Management agrees D. The Union has the right to recognize Union representatives including National Federation have a representative present at all discussions between the Employer and an employee or employees held in the course of Federal Employees VA Council and local union and national office officialsproceedings conducted to resolve complaints or grievances submitted under this Agreement by a member of the bargaining unit. The Council Employer will supply VA Headquarters in writing, and will maintain on a current basis, a list of officersnotify the local president or designee before such discussions are held. The Union at shall normally be allowed up to twenty-four (24) hours to provide a representative. The representative shall be permitted to present the facility level will supply the facility in writing, and will maintain on a current basis, a list of officers and stewards. A. The Union will be given the opportunity to be represented at any formal discussion between one or more representatives views of the Department and one or more employees in the unit or their representatives concerning any grievance or any personnel policy or practices or other general condition of employment. B. The Union shall be given the opportunity to be represented under 7114(a)(2)(B) at any examination of an employee in the unit by a representative of the Department in connection with an investigation if: (1) the employee reasonably believes that the examination may result in disciplinary action against the employee; and (2) the employee requests representation. C. The parties agree that mission accomplishment is of primary concern to both, and that improved communication and cooperation between the parties can contribute to the solution of mutual problems, and improved employee relations. Representatives of each party will meet on a regular basis to discuss labor management issues. Such meetings should be held monthly, quarterly, or as local parties agree. Each party shall submit a list of subjects they wish to discuss normally 10 days in advance of the meeting. Summary minutes reflecting items discussed should be prepared unless mutually agreed otherwise. These meetings will be conducted during regular duty hours with Union representatives authorized official time if otherwise in a duty status. Additional arrangements concerning these meetings may be negotiated at the local level. Section 4 - A union representative wishing to use official time will notify his/her immediate supervisor. Such release will not be arbitrarily withheld. The supervisor must be advised of the general purpose of the request (whether the issue is a grievance, negotiations, investigation of a complaint, EEO, etc.), how the representative may be contacted and the estimated time of return. If the union representative will be delayed beyond the estimated time, he/she will notify the immediate supervisor to request additional needed time. The supervisory will also be notified of the return. If release is not possible at the time requested, due to a work requirement which is pressing, the representative will be released as soon as possible thereafter. If there is an operational necessity that prevents the representative from being released immediately, arrangements will be made for the employee to be released normally within the next tour of duty, or the Union may opt to assign another representative. All grievance time frames and meetings with employees shall be delayed if delay in granting the requested permission to leave causes either to be missed. Union representatives will be allowed a reasonable amount of time to notify the Union when they are assigned to a workplace other than their normally assigned workplace and they need to keep the union informed of their whereabouts. Section 5 - There shall be no restraint, coercion, or discrimination against any union official because of the performance of duties in consonance with this Agreement and the Statute, or against any employee for filing a complaint or acting as a witness under the Agreement, the Statute, or applicable regulations. Section 6 - The Department agrees to meet with the VA Council Officers annually to discuss Union views on items of concern and agrees to review those items that cannot be resolved at the meeting. A. During years in which the Council does not hold its convention, the parties will meet in Washington. The Council shall request the meeting, with a preliminary agenda, at least four (4) weeks in advance so that arrangements can be made for the Council officers’ absence from their duties. The Department will provide official time, if otherwise in a duty status, and travel and per diem expenses for up to nine (9) Council officers. The meeting will not exceed one day unless through mutual agreement it is extended. B. During convention years, Management agrees to meet with the Council Officers (up to 9) on the day prior to the beginning of the Council convention. The nine (9) Council officers attending this meeting will be provided official time if otherwise in a duty status, for the day of this meeting. Other VA employees may attend the meeting but they will not be provided excused absence without charge to leave. This does not preclude approval of time for training under other portions of this contract. Management agrees to make every effort to arrange schedules so as to allow the nine (9) designated Council representatives to take annual leave or leave without pay Local during the convention and annual meeting years to the extent the workload allows. The nine (9) representatives should notify management sufficiently in advance so that suitable scheduling can be arrangeddiscussions. A. Internal Union business such as attending local union meetings will be conducted during the non-duty hours of the employees involved. B. Each local shall be allowed two membership drives not to exceed 15 work days each per calendar year. These membership drives can be conducted at times available to all employees. Requests for the equipment and facilities needed will be directed to the facility director or designee at least ten (10) work days prior to the commencement of the membership drive(s). Details regarding space, equipment, use of facilities, and other related matters are proper subjects for local supplemental negotiations.