While saving those technicians under the age of 60 was a major success, we failed to convince the Congress to eliminate the mandatory/retirement provisions for those that have reached or exceed age 60 and are eligible for an unreduced annuity. Congress is adamant that technicians must be dual status. 

While unsuccessful with Congress, I have no intention of simply ignoring these valuable individuals many of who have become my good friends. 

A final decision by the National Office of AFGE has yet to be made relative to possible litigation on behalf of all AFGE technicians impacted throughout the country. Unfortunately, until a decision is made representation will be somewhat restricted.  

We in District 2 are planning our own actions. Gary Harding, National Representative from District 2, Derick Thomas, National Vice President of District 2, and myself, meet in Washington DC two weeks ago and discussed this issue extensively. Gary and I met again in Atlanta last week and decided that for those District 2 AFGE bargaining unit members as well as some AFGE dues paying supervisors we plan on pursuing several third party litigation actions on behalf of those ages 60 or greater who are being separated. While at this time we do not believe we will be able to oppose all removals, there are several categories of removals which we intend to pursue through possibly MSPB, EEO, and arbitration on a case by case basis. 

Those affected employees who are choosing separation rather than retirement from District 2 who desire to oppose their separations are reminded once again that they must contact us immediately. We must know the date you are scheduled to be separated, whether you are Pre70/post 70, whether you signed a condition of employment statement, your current position and age. 

For those in Local 1900, you must contact me immediately. 

Extremely important is the fact that in order to be part of any future litigation, you must be separated and not have chosen retirement and must both designate your representative in writing and reply back in opposition to the advance written notice of separation within 15 calendar days of receipt to the proposing official! You must contact me NLT Tuesday and together we will discuss your response to the proposed action to remove you. 

For those in other AFGE locals in District 2, you must contact Gary Harding or your AFGE local President immediately.  

As President of AFGE Council 164, I strongly recommend that each local outside of District 2 consider taking the same actions on behalf of their members, which we in this District will be pursuing. 

Should the legal department of AFGE National reach a decision, to pursue this issue on a National basis, you will be advised provided you are currently represented by an AFGE local.

To insure all receive this information I ask that each and every technician desiring this information send me your EMAIL address.