EXHIBIT
1:
2000 SSA/AFGE Ratification Agreement
Partnerships
Section 1. Introduction
The parties recognize that a new relationship between labor and
management as partners is essential for transforming the Social
Security Administration into an agency that works more efficiently
and effectively and better serves customer needs. This partnership
involves the sharing of information at the earliest pre-decisional
stage, thereby engendering mutual trust and respect to better serve
the agency’s mission.
Section 2. Principles
Administration and Union representatives will bargain in good faith,
including bargaining on issues which may fall under 7106 (b)(1),
using interest-based bargaining (IBB) with the objective of reaching
agreement. Every effort shall be made to reach agreements that address
the interests of both parties. The procedures for implementing IBB,
including providing necessary training and facilitation, and use
of alternate dispute resolution procedures, will be developed by
the National Partnership Council.
Section 3. Partnership Councils
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The parties have established a Partnership Council at the Agency
level. The existence of an Agency level council will not preclude
the establishment of lower level councils where mutually agreed
to by the parties.
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Partnership Councils shall include an equal number of Administration
and Union appointed members. The membership of the National
Partnership Council has previously been determined by the parties.
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Councils shall abide by the general principles set forth above.
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The Councils shall meet on a regular basis, normally at least
monthly.
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The Councils shall develop a written agenda with topics being
submitted by either party.
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Council meetings will always be attended by the principals
or their designees only.
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All official time utilized by Union representatives under Partnership
shall not be charged to any bank or cap.
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Travel and per diem for partnership activities shall be paid
by the Administration in accord with Federal Travel Regulations.
Section 4. Other
To the extent that no conflict exists, this article does not supersede
the SSA/AFGE Memorandum of Understanding of June 22, 1994.
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