AFGE Local 3172

July 2, 2007

C/o Social Security Administration

1052 "C" Street

Fresno, CA 93706

Pete Spencer, Regional Commissioner

Social Security Admin., San Francisco Region

Office of the Regional Commissioner

PO Box 4200

Richmond, CA  94804

Dear Regional Commissioner Spencer:

Re: Section 10 UMG Grievance – “Dress Code”

Dear Mr. Spencer

     This is a Section 10 grievance on behalf of the employees in Bakersfield, CA by AFGE Local 3172 based on a continuing practice of management in Bakersfield including but not limited to the Bakersfield East Hills offices, of imposing a “supposedly” community standard or dress code on employees. Management had not negotiated with the Union over the imposition of any standard and any mention was dropped over national Contract negotiations.

     Management has selectively targeted individuals and ignored others, including their own mode of dress. Management has held employees to a different standard, imposing an opinion on standards of dress that is both illogical and in violation of the Contract and applicable laws, rules and regulations.

The applicable Contract sections are pursuant but not limited to Article 3, Section 2 (A); Article 24, Section 10 and any other laws, rules and regulations.

Relief Sought:

1)     That employees be made whole in all aspects,

2)   That management stop imposing their unauthorized dress code on employees,

3)   Should Discrimination be found, that up to $300,000 in compensatory and other damages be paid.

4)   If intentional discrimination is determined, that all management officials in Bakersfield be trained in EEO, anti-discrimination laws, rules and regulations, including the NO FEAR ACT, and other contract provisions and applicable Federal Rules and Regulations.

5)   Any other relief the Union deems appropriate.

Original signed grievance will be mailed by surface mail. Please contact me to arrange a date so we can discuss the issues involved in this grievance and possible settlement options.

The Union’s representative in this matter is Howard Egerman.  This grievance is being mailed to the above address.

 Sincerely,

 Sylvia Norman

 President,  AFGE Local 3172

Voice:  (559) 487-5062

FAX:    (559) 487-5275

E-mail: Sylvia.D.Norman@ssa.gov

Cc (by email)

AFGE Local 3172 Executive Board

AFGE 220 Executive Board