The USPS Clerk Contract for 2021: What You Need to Know
The United States Postal Service (USPS) plays a vital role in the nation`s economy and communications system. The USPS employs more than 500,000 people, with a significant portion working as clerks.
As with any large organization, the terms of employment are subject to negotiation and renewal. In this article, we`ll take a closer look at the USPS clerk contract for 2021 and what it means for both employees and customers.
Overview of the USPS Clerk Contract
The current USPS clerk contract was negotiated in 2019 and covers the period from May 21, 2018, to May 20, 2021. This agreement is the product of extensive negotiations between the USPS and the American Postal Workers Union (APWU), which represents more than 200,000 USPS employees, including clerks.
The contract covers a wide range of topics, such as compensation, benefits, and work rules. Let`s review some of the key provisions that affect USPS clerks.
Wages and Benefits
The USPS clerk contract guarantees wage increases of 1.3% in 2019, 1.1% in 2020, and 1.1% in 2021. In addition, the agreement provides annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs), which are determined by changes in the Consumer Price Index.
The contract also includes benefits such as health insurance, dental and vision coverage, and retirement plans. USPS clerks are eligible for a range of leave options, including annual leave, sick leave, and family and medical leave.
Work Rules
The USPS clerk contract outlines work rules that govern the daily operations of the organization. For example, the agreement establishes rules for scheduling, overtime, and holiday pay.
One significant change in the current contract is the creation of a new category of employee called the City Carrier Assistant (CCA). CCAs are non-career employees who help deliver mail and packages in urban areas. The contract outlines specific provisions for the hiring, training, and supervision of CCAs.
Other Provisions
The USPS clerk contract also includes a range of other provisions, such as:
– Increased staffing levels: The contract calls for the hiring of between 1,000 and 2,000 new clerks, which will help reduce workload and improve service levels.
– Joint task force on workplace safety: The USPS and APWU have agreed to establish a joint task force to address workplace safety issues, such as violence, accidents, and injuries.
– Expanded use of technology: The contract includes provisions for expanding the use of technology, such as scanners and mobile devices, to improve efficiency and service.
What Does the USPS Clerk Contract Mean for Customers?
The USPS clerk contract has important implications for the millions of customers who rely on the postal service for mail and package delivery. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
– Quality of service: With increased staffing levels and a focus on workplace safety, the USPS is better equipped to provide high-quality service to its customers.
– Pricing: The USPS is a self-funded government agency, and the cost of its services is influenced by factors such as fuel prices and labor costs. The terms of the clerk contract may affect future pricing decisions.
– Innovation: The expanded use of technology may lead to new services and innovations that benefit customers, such as online tracking and delivery notifications.
Conclusion
The USPS clerk contract for 2021 is the product of extensive negotiation between the USPS and the APWU. The agreement covers a range of topics, including compensation, benefits, and work rules. For customers, the contract may influence the quality of service, pricing, and innovation provided by the USPS. Overall, the contract represents an important step forward for the postal service and its employees.