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At a time when the furloughs of 2013 are distant memory to most employees, NFFE is continuing the battle to ensure that effected employees receive justice on the job. Currently, numerous appeals are moving through the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) process. Two of the most notable appeals currently pending, however, involve NFFE Local 2109, Watervilet Arsenal in Watervliet, NY, and NFFE Local 1442, Letterkenny Army Depot in Chambersburg, PA.
At the time of the furloughs, NFFE Locals 2109 and 1442 filed class grievances, bypassing the parallel MSPB process, with both Locals advancing to arbitration. While Local 1442 was unsuccessful in their arbitration, Local 2109 prevailed for its security guards. While the victory for the security guards was welcome, both Locals lost the larger issue which was whether or not furloughs were appropriate for Army Working Capital Fund employees that had sufficient funds obligated to fund work through six furlough days.
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Local 1442 Leadership Team
(From L to R): Ronald Barnhart, Trustee; Melinda Torres, 1st VP;
Ernesto Mayorga, President; Reggie Tolbert, Chief Steward/ Trustee