Article 13 of our contract covers paid time off. Many GEO members don’t know that we have paid time off for jury duty, witness service, and immigration proceedings, so it’s important that you know your rights.
Jury Duty / Witness Service: Article 13.D
If you have been called to jury duty or have been subpoenaed to serve as a witness in a trial, your department must grant you paid time off if these duties conflict with your work schedule. You must provide your department with written verification of the times and dates of your service from the Court Clerk.
Immigration Proceedings: Article 13.E
If you are compelled to attend immigration proceedings during your work hours–either on your own behalf, or as a witness for someone else–your department must compensate you during that time. In return, you must provide your department with a written statement from the relevant government agency verifying the times and dates of your absence.
Article 13.F: In either of these cases, your department can ask you to help them find a replacement to cover your work, but they cannot deny you time off if no one can be found. Arranging for a replacement worker is ultimately their responsibility.
Have you been denied paid time off for attending jury duty, immigration proceedings, or attending court as a witness? If this has happened within the last 40 days, you will still be able to file a grievance. Contact our Grievance Committee at grrrchair@geo3550.org or call (734) 995-0221.
Read the full GEO contract here.
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