No employee should ever face unjust disciplinary action, let alone when they are facing health challenges. But that’s exactly what happened to NAPE/AFSCME member Megan Arthur.
Megan, a Registered Nurse at the Norfolk Regional Center, had been navigating an ongoing, stressful situation concerning her health and well-being. When the situation progressed to needing emergency surgery, Megan took the time she needed, guaranteed by our contract and the law, to heal and properly recover before returning to work.
Instead of returning to work in a stress-free environment, Megan was unjustly disciplined for not completing her reports while she was on approved leave. However, Megan had done her reports. “When I came back to work from FMLA, they said I was on probation because I didn’t have my progress notes done in a timely manner, and I knew that wasn’t right,” Megan said.
When union members are disciplined without just cause, they can use the grievance process to challenge the discipline. Megan knew she needed to contact her union representative to file a grievance. “That’s when I went to my union representative and we fought it and won,” Megan said. “If you find yourself facing a similar situation, contact the union because you’re not alone. When we all work together, we can get things done.”
If you’re facing a similar situation, reach out to your union representative right away! Strict time limits apply during disciplinary situations. Not a union member? Join your union today!