Ten Most commonly Asked Questions about OPEA
Question: Why should I join OPEA? I will receive the same benefits whether I join the association or not.
Answer: That’s true, but what people don’t realize is that without additional support from all public employees, OPEA’s accomplishments can be undone. OPEA has a long history of victories for state employees including, longevity, 75 percent dependent health insurance, SoonerSave match, increased annual leave, RIF and severance pay and much more. But to gain future pay raises and benefits, your association needs to be strong.
Question: I am a good employee and will probably never need representation. Why should I join OPEA?
Answer: While you may never be involved in a formal grievance or disciplinary action, chances are that if you ever need representation, you will wish you had joined OPEA. The association offers immediate grievance assistance to our members and representation through the Merit Protection Commission process after 180 days of membership.
Question: As members of OPEA, do we have the right to strike?
Answer: The policy of OPEA is to encourage our members to work cooperatively with the executive and legislative bodies and seek solutions to problems through education, persuasion and recommendations. State law prohibits public employees from striking.
Questions: Can I go to the OPEA law firm for help on issue unrelated to my work?
Answer: Yes, with OPEA’s Legal Protection Program you can call our law firm for a free consultation on any issue. If you need assistance on a non-work related issue, the law firm will give you a discounted rate of $150 per hour.
Question: Why are the dues so expensive? I don’t know if I can afford to belong.
Answer: You cannot afford not to be a member! In a recent comparison of employee organization dues in Colorado, Kansas, Texas, Missouri and Arkansas, only Arkansas and Texas ranked lower than Oklahoma in the total dues paid per member. OPEA is proud of the fact that our dues structure is one of the lowest in the country while our services are among the highest!
Question: Is OPEA really that effective in the Legislature?
Answer: Yes! OPEA has been directly or indirectly responsible for securing every benefit for state employees since 1975. State employees salaries would be some 25 percent less without OPEA and your insurance benefit allowance would not exist. OPEA has also protected your retirement system, longevity, and annual leave as well as your benefit allowance just to name a few.
Question: If I join, do I have to come to Oklahoma City to participate?
Answer: No, you can participate in a local chapter in your area. OPEA does most of its work through the local chapters working with their administration, local legislators and OPEA staff to resolve issues, change laws and improve the working lives of state employees. OPEA has an annual Delegate Assembly which is moved around the state as well as several training conferences held at designated locations.
Question: How does OPEA keep its members informed about what is going on?
Answer: OPEA uses several communications methods to make sure our members stay informed. OPEA publishes a newsletter, the Advocate that is mailed to our members six times per year. OPEA’s website includes daily updates of importance to state employees as well as legislative updates. OPEA produces a weekly podcast program called the “OPEA Break Room” that features interesting guests and topics. Members can listen to from their computer or download to an I-pod. We also use text messages and emails to keep you up-to-date as well.
Question: How many members does OPEA represent?
Answer: OPEA has over 10,000 active and retired state employees. That is over 25 percent of the state’s workforce and we are growing!
Question: How do I join?
Answer: You can ask a local OPEA member for an application, download one from our website, www.opea.org or call 1 800 880 OPEA (6732) and we will get you one!