APWU members have ratified the 2024-2027 National Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the United States Postal Service (USPS). The agreement was approved by a substantial majority, with 95% of voting members in favor. The vote tally recorded 34,867 votes for ratification and 1,863 against.
APWU President Mark Dimondstein expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing that the contract maintains important protections for nearly 200,000 postal workers. “With absolutely no givebacks,” he stated, “the contract protects the great gains achieved over many years of struggle.” These include no-layoff protections, cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), regular step increases, and various wage advancements.
The negotiating process included significant contributions from local and state organizations within APWU. Various campaigns were conducted to promote unity and solidarity among union members.
The Tentative Agreement was finalized on June 2 after receiving unanimous approval from both the National Negotiations Committee and the Rank and File Bargaining Advisory Committee. The American Arbitration Association administered the ratification vote on July 10.
Industrial Relations Director Charlie Cash acknowledged those who participated in the vote and highlighted ongoing work to implement retroactive pay increases. Career employees are set to receive a general wage increase of 1.3% effective November 16, 2024, along with a $395 annual COLA effective March 8, 2025. PSEs will receive an additional percentage towards their wage increase.
Programming updates necessary for implementing these changes are underway in collaboration with APWU-represented employees in IT/AS sectors. Information regarding retroactive payments will be updated on apwu.org as available.
Final steps involve producing print versions of the CBA and updating related manuals. In conclusion, President Dimondstein emphasized that this agreement provides a strong foundation amidst challenging times for government workers.
