In this episode, Mallory and Badmouth welcome Thomas McDonald, Vice President of Branch 1642 in Yuma, Arizona. Thomas discusses the challenges and improvements he's seen in his office, particularly the significant CCA turnover during the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlights efforts to improve communication and address concerns within the CCA workforce, leading to a more positive and productive atmosphere. The discussion transitions to CCA benefits, focusing on health insurance, with a detailed breakdown of the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program and the newly negotiated USPS non-career health benefit plan. This plan, available to CCAs regardless of their appointment year, allows for postal service contributions towards premium costs. The podcast covers eligibility requirements for various benefits, including dental and vision (FEDVIP), flexible spending accounts (FSA), life insurance (through the NALC Mutual Benefit Association—MBA), and death benefits (through the MBA). Specific costs, eligibility requirements, and contact information are provided. Important details regarding uniform allowances, leave policies (annual, sick, bereavement, FMLA, LWOP), and holiday pay are also presented, including details on how to claim uniform allowances and leave benefits. The episode concludes with a call to action for CCAs to get involved in their local union, emphasizing the importance of collective action in advocating for better working conditions and benefits, featuring outreach events in Texas.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/