The DEA identified, and filed a grievance on behalf of, 254 members who did not receive the $1,500 Uniform Allowance, despite the fact that they had 15 years of seniority. As per the amended collective bargaining agreement from July of 2017, it was our opinion these 254 members were entitled to the $1,500. The reason for this discrepancy, as described by Payroll Unit, was that our members reached the 15-year seniority mark after July 1st (Fiscal year), 2019.
The DEA maintained that a member of the service reaches 15 years of seniority at the point of his or her anniversary. At the time the Uniform Allowance is dispensed, the member who has 15 years of seniority should receive the $1,500 allowance.
The DEA won the grievance and our 254 members will each be paid the $1,500 for 2019.