Local Leaders,

The national security personnel system (NSPS) that the department of defense had developed with the intent of stripping away bargaining rights from federal employees has been substantially revised in the 08 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) .  After over three years of effort, language that was included in the National Defense Authorization Act and signed into law yesterday restored collective bargaining and appeal rights to federal employees and severely gutted other portions of NSPS.  We will be sending out the specific language in the NDAA on NSPS in the near future.

The historic efforts of the 34 unions involved in the United Defense Workers Coalition and the support of many members of the House and Senate have resulted in a clear message to the Bush Administration.  Union Workers do have a voice, and they will be heard.

Thanks to all of you for your support and understanding during this battle.  Obviously this fight ate up a lot of resources and time but it was worth it in the end......

Jim J.

International Association of Fire Fighters