August 2026 Update
The announcement that we’ll be heading to arbitration came earlier this month, but it did not come as a surprise. The road to our next contract has been long; although, it appears that the path to a resolution is now clear. So, what does the arbitration process look like; and how long will it take?
The first step will be the creation of the arbitration panel. The Postal Service will appoint an arbitrator, the Union will appoint an arbitrator, and these two arbitrators will select a neutral arbitrator to serve as the chairperson of the panel. The parties will attempt to identify the issues the arbitration panel will decide; but if they are unable to agree, the arbitration panel may end up determining what will be decided. This could range from a few narrow issues to many parts of our contract.
The arbitration panel will provide both parties with a full and fair opportunity to present their arguments on the matters in dispute. There will be many days of hearings which will occur over several months. Once that is completed, the arbitration panel will take some time to render a decision and set the terms of our next contract.
How long will it take? That’s a good question. It depends on the number of matters to be addressed. If hearings are completed by the end of the year, we might have a ruling during the first couple of months of 2027. It is important to recognize that the arbitration process cannot be rushed. It must be done correctly because the decision which follows will govern our working lives for several years.
As soon as I know more, you’ll know more.
JL