AFGE Launches New Initiative to Protect Disabled Veterans, Police Officers

Recently, the United States Army moved to terminate security and police officers at bases across the country. These officers, many of whom are veterans, are being forced out because of a new policy aimed at eliminating long-term employees in favor of private contractors. In an effort to oust the federal workforce and pursue the misguided agenda of contracting out civilian services, the Army has developed new physical and medical requirements that have little correlation with the ability of employees to perform their duties. The Army’s proposed changes, and the disciplinary steps it is undertaking, represent a serious national security threat. By removing career employees with intimate knowledge of base functions and personnel and transferring their duties to contractors, the Army is jeopardizing its own safety. In instances of national crisis, such as during the 9/11 attacks, experienced security personnel were able to lock down Army facilities not through physical endurance or strength, but by utilizing their historical knowledge and interpersonal skills. The policy also undercuts previous initiatives to provide returning veterans with an opportunity to transition into civilian life. More than 70 percent of the long term security officers are former veterans with years of experience in protecting Army installations. Compare that to private contractors with lax hiring standards, including reports of security contractors with felons on the payroll. Simply put, federalized security officers represent the best of the Army’s civilian workforce. To ensure that the workplace rights of these valued federal employees’ are protected, AFGE has launched a nationwide grassroots campaign against this misguided policy. AFGE is working with local union leaders throughout the country to develop strategies to halt adverse disciplinary actions, narrow requirements to reflect actual duties performed on a frequent and recurring basis, and establish reasonable accommodations for security personnel unable to meet the new physical and medical requirements.

AFGE APPLAUDS CONGRESSIONAL ACTION ON BEHALF OF FEDERAL WORKERS

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