Legal Representation
 

OPEIU attorneys represent their local unions on many issues.    Local unions may call upon the OPEIU International office for legal advice related to bargaining, individual employment grievances, organizing, discrimination cases, and the law.  

Collective Bargain & Organizing

Although most local unions conduct its own negotiations and organizing campaigns, the International Union frequently assists locals in these endeavors. The International office, publications, public relations, and legal department also work on collective bargaining and organizing projects.

Research & Education Department
 

Upon request from local unions, R & E will:

• Analyze local OPEIU contracts and compensation
•  Provide information on legislation
• Provide grievance and arbitration assistance
• Provide the financial status of companies
• Provide expertise on benefits, etc.

All these activities support the work of the collective bargaining, organizing, and other departments, as well as local and national officers.
  

Strike / Defense Fund 

A fraction of your dues is earmarked for the OPEIU International Union's defense fund that will:

• Support OPEIU members in the USA and Canada who are forced to take strike action
• Support public sector employees in their legislative struggles to achieve a decent contract
• Assist a local incurring unusual legal expenses in defense of its members and/or contracts .

OPEIU International publishes the International's Research News, the Steward Manual, and Policy Statements, the new members' booklet, as well as writing various brochures and newsletters for use
by the International or local unions. 

International cts as a liaison with the media to publicize OPEIU achievements and union activities.
 

International publishes the membership's newspaper White Collar, which is delivered to your home

Legislative Affairs

International fights OPEIU battles before the U.S. Congress and in the state legislative houses.  OPEIU is constantly monitoring the legislative agenda and ensuring that the U.S. Congress is aware of the members' position on issues that concern their lives.

Scholarship Funds

OPEIU provides scholarship funds, in honor of two
past  International Presidents who believed strongly
in education and training.

The Howard Coughlin Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to 20 members or their children for undergraduate university or college education.
 

The John Kelly Labor Studies Scholarship provides assistance annually  to 10 members or associate members who wish to pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees
in labor studies, industrial relations, social science, or a related field.

Please check your “White Collar” newspaper
for details or call the Local 251 office.

Money-saving Benefits

Save on everyday consumer products and services. These discounts help save on everything from hearing health care to car rentals and more!

 UNION PRIVILEGE®, AFL-CIO

CONCLUSION

You are making an investment in the profession you have chosen as your career, through your union dues.  Local 251 and OPEIU International will continue to provide the services that protect the contractual and legal rights OPEIU members have earned and deserve.