VA Gives Preference to Union Members Over Vets

Despite federal laws and regulations giving vets hiring preference in the civil service, the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) union contract requires the agency hire bureaucrats over veterans for most jobs. The agreement between the VA and the American Federation of Government Employees states, ““Prior to considering candidates from outside the bargaining unit, the department agrees to first consider internal candidates for selection … in all cases … first and full consideration shall be given to any best qualified candidates within the facility.” The “preference points” given to vets over other applicants are negated by the VA due to the rule that a job can’t go to anyone unless no qualified union member wants it.

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