BY LAW CHANGE - Branch 916 is looking to give the Editor a raise. The position currently pays 5 hours a month. Previous Editors have also brought up that a significant amount of more time was required. Due to the current world pandemic the position and our newsletter has become even more crucial. The request is to provide the editor with 10 hours a month. See E-Board Page
UPDATING IN PROCESS
DISCONTINUANCE OF COVID-19 PROTOCOLS
On May 11, 2023, The U.S. Center for Disease Control ended the federal COVID-19 PHE declaration, preceded by President Biden signing the Congressional Joint Resolution on April 11, 2023.
Effective today, the Postal Service has discontinued all COVID-19 specific protocols, including all COVID Memoranda of Understanding, policies, and work practice restrictions and requirements.
Working with our National Union Leadership, Management Associations, and Public Health Officials, the Postal Service has mobilized and sustained and extensive and effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Please note, returning to pre-COVID-19 protocols impact the following:
Reporting - Employees are no longer required to report positive findings of COVID-19 or potential exposure through close contacts. Ill employees will continue to be advised to remain at home. The COVID-19 HERO Tracker has been disabled, and COVID reports are archived and accessable at Headquarters.
Return to Work Clearance - Occupational health clearance is no longer required for any employee to return to work following recovery from COVID-19. Employees are required to follow all postal leave usage regulations and policies in effect prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Social Distancing - Driver Safety Instructors are permitted to be in the vehicle during driver traiing. All social distancing requirements for drivers and all other classroom trainings and meetings have been terminated. All the COVID-19 standard work instructions preventing contact with other employees within six feet are no longer in effect.
If you have any questions regarding these changes, please contact Linda DeCarlo, Senior Director Occupational Safety & Health, at (202) 268-3587 or via email Linda.DeCarlo@usps.gov
A History of the post office
Here's a great National Geographic article detailing the history of the post office and our struggles through the years.