News & Updates
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Contract wins, member updates, and the announcements that affect your job at VA Central Office in Washington, D.C. Updated as it happens.
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They Tried to Silence the Federal Employee Voice. We Refuse to Be Ignored.
The administration canceled the FEVS to silence the federal employee voice. AFGE Local 17 is fighting back. Take our survey and make your voice heard.
VA Secretary's Promises: 4 Heartbreaking Failures in a Critical Review
VA Secretary's promises to motivate and encourage workers face scrutiny. We examine 4 heartbreaking failures and ask if the VA workforce feels supported.
Essential Democratic Patriots: Jamie Raskin Shares 4 Unshakable Truths to Defend our Rights
Rep. Jamie Raskin calls federal workers "Essential Democratic Patriots." Learn why this title is a rallying cry against union-busting and political attacks.
Recap: AFGE Local 17 Town Hall on the Executive Order and Your Rights
A complete recap of the August 13, 2025 AFGE Local 17 Town Hall, covering the executive order, SF-50 changes, legal challenges, and next steps for members.
Your Union at Work: A Record of Union Victories and Our Path Forward
Explore AFGE Local 17's record of union victories. We protect federal employee rights, retirement, and jobs, and have a plan to keep fighting for you.
Clearing Up Confusion: Your Union Rights Remain in Place
Union Rights remain protected despite VA memo confusion. Your collective bargaining rights under the Master Agreement and federal law are secure.
Mental Wellness Symposium: 6 Critical Reasons to Attend on June 28
Mental Wellness Symposium in Prince William County offers support for displaced federal workers with trauma care, legal advice, and career resources on June 28.
Executive Order 14284: 9 Alarming Facts Board Attorneys Must Know
Executive Order 14284 reshapes trial periods for BVA attorneys, reducing protections and increasing management’s power to terminate during probation.
Big Retaliation Bill: 3 Minutes to Stop This Harmful Attack on Federal Workers
Stop the Senate GOP’s Big Retaliation Bill that threatens federal workers’ rights and Veterans’ care. Act now—sending a letter takes just 3 minutes.
VA Healthcare Worker Cuts: Secretary Collins’ Plan Unmasked and Exposed
VA healthcare worker cuts exposed: Secretary Collins tries to downplay plans to slash frontline staff, but the truth can’t be hidden.
Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Federal Disability Retirement
Struggling with a disability as a federal employee? Learn your rights and how to apply for federal disability retirement with guidance from attorney Eric Pines.
11 Critical Retirement Benefits Every Federal Employee Should Understand
Retirement benefits insight: Federal employees face tough choices—get expert guidance from Benefit Architects and AFGE Local 17.