Forest Service Council

National Federation of Federal Employees
IAM / AFL-CIO

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Forest Service Council

National Federation of Federal Employees
IAM / AFL-CIO

General Information

A NFFE (National Federation of Federal Employees) union grievance is a formal complaint filed by a union member against their employer, typically the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), alleging a violation of the collective bargaining agreement or other workplace policies. The NFFE union files these grievances on behalf of its members to address issues such as unfair labor practices, contract violations, and workplace conditions.

The grievance process in a unionized environment usually involves several steps. If the grievance is not resolved at initial stages, it may escalate to higher levels of management and potentially to mediation or arbitration.

It's important to note that unions have discretion over which grievances to pursue and how to handle them, which can sometimes lead to strategic decisions that may not always align with individual members' interests.

NFFE-FSC Complaint (Grievance) Forms

A NFFE-FSC complaint (grievance) alleges an violation by the agency of the Master Agreement, the law, government rules or policies, fair treatment or past practice. Before you file a grievance, check the Master Agreement to find out about your specific grievance procedure. Talk with your shop steward or Union Representative for help.

Grievance Writing Tips

  • Limit statements on the grievance form to basic facts.
  • Think of the Six Ws — Who, What, When, Where, Why, and Witnesses.
  • Do not include arguments, evidence, and justifications at the time.
  • Do include all provisions of the contract you believe have been violated.
  • State the specific remedies being requested: i.e. pay claim, remove discipline, etc.
  • Sign and date your grievance after reviewing the prepared grievance for accuracy, especially dates.
  • Turn your grievance form into the union in a timely manner.