The APWU 2018 Contract: What You Need to Know

The American Postal Workers Union (APWU) recently negotiated a new contract with the United States Postal Service (USPS), which went into effect on August 1, 2018. This contract covers approximately 200,000 employees in clerk, maintenance, and motor vehicle crafts.

There are several important changes and updates in this contract that APWU members should be aware of. Here are some of the key highlights:

Wage Increases

Under the new contract, APWU members will receive wage increases totaling 3.4% over the life of the agreement. This includes a 2.3% increase in the first year, followed by a 1.1% increase in the second year. In addition, the contract includes a 1.3% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which will be paid in September 2018.

No Layoffs

One of the most significant victories for APWU members in this contract is the guarantee of no layoffs for career employees during the life of the agreement. This is a major win, as the USPS has previously implemented several rounds of layoffs in recent years.

Career Employees

The new contract also includes provisions for increased career opportunities for part-time flexible (PTF) and postal support employees (PSEs). The contract mandates that the USPS convert a minimum of 30% of PSEs to career status within the first year of the agreement, with an additional 25% conversion in the second year. This will provide more job security and benefits for these workers.

Healthcare

The new contract includes several changes to healthcare benefits, including increased employer contributions to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and a new tiered prescription drug program. The USPS will also maintain current levels of employer contributions to health insurance premiums.

Leave Benefits

APWU members will see an increase in leave benefits under the new contract. The contract includes a new annual leave carryover provision, which allows employees to carry over up to 520 hours of annual leave from year to year. It also increases the maximum amount of sick leave that can be accumulated to 1040 hours.

Overall, the APWU 2018 contract represents a significant victory for APWU members. The wage increases, job security, and improved benefits will provide a better quality of life for workers and their families. With this new contract in place, APWU members can continue to provide critical services to communities across the country, knowing that their contributions are valued and appreciated.