Frequently Asked Questions
Isn’t Cam already doing as much as can be done to solve some of these problems?
Superintendent Cam Sholly and the senior management team have done a lot to improve housing in the park, create career advancement opportunities, bring mental health services to employees, and create flexible work options for employees who can take advantage of that. While this work is deeply appreciated and recognized, there is still a lot to do, and it's too much for Cam to do alone. A union offers an opportunity for employees to leverage our collective voices in speaking with park management, as well as working with other federal workers around the country via the NFFE to lobby Congress. They have been successful in getting significant raises for firefighters in the US Forest Service, were instrumental in getting LMWFA passed, and got a significant amount of money allocated from Congress towards park housing improvements. Since pay raises and locality must come from Congress, we need proven advocates there working towards this goal.
The other consideration is that while Superintendent Sholly has been focused on improving housing and working conditions, when a new person takes on the role of superintendent (hopefully no time soon!) there is no guarantee that these improvements will continue. A union offers employees continuity and guarantees that the needs and priorities of employees will be heard and advocated for.
Didn’t we sign something that says we can’t unionize as federal employees?
No, federal employees can unionize and many federal workers already are part of unions including National Park Service units. In fact, President Biden has been explicitly encouraging federal workers to unionize. What federal employees are not allowed to do is strike. That is what was signed when you started working for the NPS.
Who will be representing us?
A union is an employee organization which means you represent each other. Union members will select stewards that will act as union leaders and be the people to negotiate with management and can join you and help if a disciplinary action is taken.
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Yellowstone will also be a part of a larger union, the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE). We will be a local chapter of the NFFE and dues paid will go to this union to help pay for lobbyists, advocates, organizers, training, and legal assistance.
Will I lose my furlough?
No, there is no plan to advocate for ending furloughs. If employees are interested in discussing this, a union can negotiate furloughs if that is a priority.
What is the union’s stance on career seasonal positions?
The organizing committee fully supports more career seasonal positions. We believe that workers of all types should be earning a living wage with benefits including health insurance, retirement, disability insurance, and life insurance.
What if I can’t afford the dues?
We understand many employees are struggling to put food on the table, money is tight because of low wages, lack of locality pay, and the high cost of living. This is one of the main reasons for unionizing. For those people who cannot afford the dues, we still want you involved! When we win higher wages or you get promoted, we hope you will act in good faith and become a dues paying member.