Established in 1929, OPEDA (Organization of Professional Employees, U.S. Department of Agriculture) is an association of professional employees with the mission to enhance the effectiveness of members in the performance of their duties. It seeks to provide enlightened guidance and representation before Congress, the Administration, and other employee groups and organizations and the public on matters that promote the efficient and effective operation of agencies of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. OPEDA is the only department wide professional organization in USDA. Membership is open to all USDA employees (GS-4 and above) and retirees regardless of age, sex, race, religion, national origin or political affiliation. Over two thirds of OPEDA’s members are located outside the Washington D.C., metro area.
OPEDA Working for You
For 70 years OPEDA has worked to protect and advance USDA employee interests through organized and concerted effort. In keeping with this thrust, OPEDA officers and staff continue to work diligently for the economic and professional advancement of OPEDA members, helping them to serve with pride and dedication. Never has OPEDA’s commitment to serving its membership been stronger than it is today, providing an array of services that range from influencing pay legislation to encouraging review of change of unnecessarily restrictive policies.
OPEDA has arrangements with several other professional organizations to work together on matters of material interest. This has made it possible for more than one-quarter million professionals to testify as one before Congressional Committees. What has OPEDA been doing for you?
OPEDA keeps its members informed through a monthly newsletter, alert mailings, and e-mail.
OPEDA was a pioneer in advancing optional retirement at full annuity at age 55 after 30 years of service, with became law in 1966.
OPEDA has been the foremost exponent of the principle of pay comparability-with-private industry and will continue its efforts in this regard, especially in pursuit of compliance with the Pay Comparability Act of 1990.
OPEDA was instrumental in gaining increased annuities for retirees and their survivors, and has been active in efforts to gain equal treatment for women in these benefits.
OPEDA voiced strong opposition to House and Senate Budget Resolutions to change the federal annuity computation from the highest three years of salary to the highest five.
OPEDA protested a House proposal to raise employee contributions to retirement by 2.5 percent.
OPEDA urged key Representatives to oppose a plan to shift health care premium increases to federal employees, absolving the government of responsibility to held hold down health cost increases.
