Unions Will Push Their Agendas

Federal unions are saying that the changes offer opportunities for them to advance several of their priorities, including further restrictions on NSPS or its outright repeal–AFGE is considering further litigation, as well–along with limiting the contracting out program. They also are seeking broadened representation rights for Transportation Security Administration screeners, which Obama has supported. AFGE and NTEU have been organizing units in TSA, but under current law, they cannot negotiate on behalf of those employees. Unions also are hoping for a return to the more cooperative relationship with agency management that they enjoyed under the Clinton administration, believing that Obama might revive the former "partnership" program or roll out something similar.