When I first decided to become an AFSCME Steward, my reasons were simple. I felt passionate about the basic fundamentals and reasons why our union exists. I wanted to be an advocate for my coworkers by helping to ensure that fellow members are treated fairly in all aspects of our respective working environments.

In the first week of January, I received an e-mail from Diane Lovell (AFSCME Staff) about a lump-sum payment that would be paid to Pacific Oncology staff.  This lump-sum was intended to make us whole for our first year of union dues so that our salaries would remain the same. This payment was negotiated by our union as part of the transition of Pacific Oncology staff to OHSU employees represented by AFSCME.  I was excited and happy to know that this lump sum was written into the agreement.  When I learned that the IRS would require the lump sum  to be taxed I was really disappointed because the money we used to pay our union dues had already been taxed.

My gut instinct told me that this wasn’t right – it felt like double-taxation of the dues. I inquired with our in-house accountant and asked if this would/ should be a taxable rebate. I received an emphatic “NO” from the standpoint that it should be considered a reimbursement of dues. This conversation led to numerous e-mails, and I eventually received notification that the Tax Attorneys were looking into this and they would get back to us. As the pay periods would approach, I would follow up with the HR Business Partner and the AFSCME Staff Member to make sure that this very important issue was addressed and resolved. Approximately one month later, I received the answer I was hoping for – We would be reimbursed the dues through a form of reimbursement that would eliminate the double taxation.

I feel that I have made a difference and am happy to know that all of my fellow members will be treated fairly and will be getting back what they actually paid out in dues. I believe that my research and persistence made this a victorious monetary win for the members of Pacific Oncology. This is what I was hoping for when I decided to become a Steward – a chance to make a positive difference for my fellow union members. It is indeed truly rewarding.

Tabitha Lawson
AFSCME Steward