AFGE Blocks DOL Outsourcing

The Department of Labor (DOL) has canceled plans to outsource 258 administrative support jobs after well-organized opposition by AFGE Local 12, which represents employees in the DOL, and a strong lobbying effort by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE). "We always knew that these privatization schemes were unfair, discriminatory, and jeopardized the Department of Labor's mission to protect the American worker," said Alex Bastani president of AFGE's Local 12. "Now, we can continue to fulfill our mission without having to constantly look over our shoulder for the next contracting out effort." The DOL privatization efforts were derailed by Congressional legislation developed by Senator Barbara Mikulski (D-MD). "Privatization at the Department of Labor undermined the morale of the employees and challenged the agency's mission of protecting American workers and ensuring fairness and safety in the workplace," said John Gage, AFGE national president. "We applaud Senator Mikulski for recognizing the essential work of the employees in the DOL." June 6 rally against DOL outsourcing, photo by Andy Richards