📢 Historic Milestone: USPTO and POPA Sign First Collective Bargaining Agreement in Nearly Four Decades
📅 December 11, 2024 | Washington, D.C.
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and the Patent Office Professional Association (POPA) have officially signed a landmark Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) — marking the first update in over 38 years. This agreement sets a new standard for federal labor relations, emphasizing pre-decisional involvement and fostering labor-management collaboration.
🔑 Key Highlights of the Agreement:
"This landmark agreement — a generational accomplishment — represents our commitment to strengthening the partnership between POPA members and management," said Kathi Vidal, Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO. "It fosters a culture of thoughtful collaboration while preserving the unique characteristics that make the USPTO such a vibrant workplace."
👥 Who Does It Impact?
The agreement directly benefits over 9,600 professionals, including:
These roles collectively represent the foundation of the USPTO's innovation ecosystem.
Kathy Duda, President of the Patent Office Professional Association, emphasized:
"This agreement demonstrates the USPTO’s dedication to supporting workforce flexibilities that meet the demands of the 21st century. It’s a foundation for lasting collaboration and growth."
🤝 Aligned with National Workforce Policies
This achievement aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration's Executive Order on Worker Organizing and Empowerment, promoting fair labor practices and collective bargaining across federal agencies.
🌟 Looking Ahead
The USPTO and POPA are poised to build on this agreement, focusing on:
✅ Innovation in Workforce Management
✅ Enhanced Employee Engagement
✅ Sustainable Collaboration Across Teams
Stay tuned for more updates as the USPTO and POPA pave the way for a future defined by collaboration, innovation, and public service excellence.
📰 Follow for Updates:
Stay connected with ongoing developments and insights from this transformative partnership.
🔗 Learn More on the USPTO Official Page
