In a remarkable turn of events, 2024 has ushered in the highest federal pay raise in over four decades. This development, marking a historic 5.2% increase, stands out as the most significant since the era of President Jimmy Carter, 43 years ago.
President Biden’s recent executive order plays a pivotal role in this advancement. The order enacts an average 4.7% across-the-board raise along with an additional average 0.5% increase in locality pay. This comprehensive adjustment reflects a strong commitment to supporting and valuing the federal workforce.
The impact of this raise is widespread, affecting every level of the General Schedule and each locality pay area. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has released new pay tables, incorporating these adjustments, offering a clear view of the changes at each level. This raise is set to take effect from the first full pay period of the new year.
This pay raise not only acknowledges the dedicated service of federal employees but also sets a precedent for future efforts to maintain equitable compensation in the face of evolving economic challenges.
OPM’s General Schedule
The U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s website provides detailed information on the 2024 General Schedule (GS) Locality Pay Tables. It includes data on pay scales across various geographic areas, reflecting the recent federal pay raise. The site lists specific localities, offering tailored pay information for each area. This comprehensive resource is essential for federal employees to understand their new pay structure following the historic pay raise. For more detailed information, please visit the OPM’s General Schedule page.
Joining a Union
Joining a union, like the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), the National Association of Government Employees (NAGE), or the American Postal Workers Union (APWU), offers several benefits. It provides a collective voice in negotiations for better pay, benefits, and working conditions. Unions also offer legal representation in workplace disputes, access to exclusive member benefits, and a platform for addressing broader issues affecting the workforce. Moreover, they play a crucial role in advocating for policies that benefit members at a national level. Union membership can empower employees, giving them a stronger say in their employment conditions and future.