AFGE Local 1061 extends its sincere thanks to AFGE and the NVAC Legal Team for their outstanding representation and continued defense of VA employees’ rights.
We especially want to recognize the successful representation of a Registered Nurse in a Title 38 Disciplinary Appeals Board (DAB) case, where a suspension was overturned and full relief granted under the Back Pay Act. This outcome reinforces a core union principle: every employee deserves due process, fairness, and a safe, just workplace.
“This case was never just about discipline—it was about fairness, due process, and protecting a nurse’s professional integrity. When employees are denied a fair hearing, the union must stand firm and push back. That’s exactly what happened here.”
— Gary Locken, RN
AFGE Local 1061 Steward
This victory reflects months of persistent advocacy. Steward Gary Locken, RN, worked closely with the NVAC Legal Team over several months to ensure the nurse received a fair hearing and equitable treatment, demonstrating the power of strong local representation supported by national legal expertise.
NVAC Legal Team Statement
“Title 38 DAB Appeal – Suspension Overturned: The VA suspended a Registered Nurse (RN) for allegations of inappropriate conduct and failure to document. The NVAC attorney appealed the major adverse action to a Disciplinary Appeals Board (DAB) pursuant to 38 U.S.C. §§ 7462–7464. At hearing, the deciding official admitted during cross-examination that they relied upon information not contained in the evidence file. The NVAC attorney argued that this conduct violated the RN’s due process rights and required automatic reversal. The DAB agreed and recommended to the Deputy Under Secretary for Health that the suspension be overturned based on the due process violation. The RN received full relief under the Back Pay Act.”
Why this matters
- Reinforces due process protections under Title 38
- Demonstrates the effectiveness of local union advocacy backed by NVAC legal expertise
- Sends a clear message: unjust discipline will be challenged—and overturned
Standing Strong Together
At a time when workplace protections and collective bargaining rights face unprecedented challenges, this win underscores the importance of union solidarity. AFGE and NVAC continue to fight for fairness, accountability, and respect for VA employees—and AFGE Local 1061 is proud to stand with them.
In Solidarity,
AFGE Local 1061
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