[ v08 p54 ]
08:0054(11)CA
The decision of the Authority follows:
8 FLRA No. 11 STATE OF CALIFORNIA NATIONAL GUARD Respondent and NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES, LOCALS R12-125, R12-132, R12-146, R12-150 and R12-105 Charging Party Case No(s). 9-CA-44, 9-CA-95 DECISION AND ORDER THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE ISSUED HIS DECISION AND ORDER IN THE ABOVE-ENTITLED PROCEEDING FINDING THAT RESPONDENT HAD ENGAGED IN THE UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICES ALLEGED IN THE COMPLAINTS, AND RECOMMENDING THAT IT BE ORDERED TO CEASE AND DESIST THEREFROM AND TAKE CERTAIN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION. THEREAFTER, THE RESPONDENT FILED EXCEPTIONS TO THE JUDGE'S DECISION AND ORDER AND A BRIEF IN SUPPORT THEREOF, AND THE GENERAL COUNSEL FILED AN OPPOSITION THERETO. PURSUANT TO SECTION 2423.29 OF THE AUTHORITY'S RULES AND REGULATIONS (5 CFR 2423.29) AND SECTION 7118 OF THE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE (THE STATUTE), THE AUTHORITY HAS REVIEWED THE RULINGS OF THE JUDGE MADE AT THE HEARING AND FINDS THAT NO PREJUDICIAL ERROR WAS COMMITTED. THE RULINGS ARE HEREBY AFFIRMED. /1/ UPON CONSIDERATION OF THE JUDGE'S DECISION AND ORDER, AND THE ENTIRE RECORD IN THE SUBJECT CASES, THE AUTHORITY HEREBY ADOPTS THE JUDGE'S RECOMMENDATIONS AS MODIFIED HEREIN. BASED ON THE AUTHORITY'S DECISION IN STATE OF NEVADA NATIONAL GUARD, 7 FLRA NO. 37(1981), AND THE RATIONALE THEREIN, THE AUTHORITY AGREES WITH THE JUDGE THAT THE RESPONDENT VIOLATED SECTION 7116(A)(1) AND (6) OF THE STATUTE. IN VIEW OF THAT FINDING, THE AUTHORITY FINDS IT UNNECESSARY TO PASS UPON WHETHER THE RESPONDENT'S CONDUCT ALSO VIOLATED SECTION 7116(A)(5) OR (8). ORDER PURSUANT TO SECTION 2423.29 OF THE FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY'S RULES AND REGULATIONS AND SECTION 7118 OF THE STATUTE, IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA NATIONAL GUARD SHALL: 1. CEASE AND DESIST FROM: (A) FAILING AND REFUSING TO COMPLY AND COOPERATE WITH DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICE IMPASSES PANEL ISSUED OCTOBER 13, 1978, AND APRIL 13, 1979. (B) IN ANY LIKE OR RELATED MANNER, INTERFERING WITH, RESTRAINING, OR COERCING EMPLOYEES IN THE EXERCISE OF THEIR RIGHTS ASSURED BY EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491, AS AMENDED, AND THE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE. 2. TAKE THE FOLLOWING AFFIRMATIVE ACTION IN ORDER TO CARRY OUT THE PURPOSES AND POLICIES IN EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491, AS AMENDED, AND THE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE: (A) COMPLY AND COOPERATE FORTHWITH WITH DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICE IMPASSES PANEL ISSUED OCTOBER 13, 1978, AND APRIL 13, 1979. (B) POST AT ITS FACILITIES COPIES OF THE ATTACHED NOTICE ON FORMS TO BE FURNISHED BY THE AUTHORITY. UPON RECEIPT OF SUCH FORMS, THEY SHALL BE SIGNED BY THE COMMANDING GENERAL, CALIFORNIA NATIONAL GUARD, AND SHALL BE POSTED AND MAINTAINED BY HIM FOR 60 CONSECUTIVE DAYS THEREAFTER, IN CONSPICUOUS PLACES, INCLUDING ALL BULLETIN BOARDS AND OTHER PLACES WHERE NOTICES TO EMPLOYEES ARE CUSTOMARILY POSTED. THE COMMANDING GENERAL SHALL TAKE REASONABLE STEPS TO INSURE THAT SUCH NOTICES ARE NOT ALTERED, DEFACED, OR COVERED BY ANY OTHER MATERIAL. (C) PURSUANT TO SECTION 2423.30 OF THE AUTHORITY'S RULES AND REGULATIONS, NOTIFY THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR, REGION 9, FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY, IN WRITING, WITHIN 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS ORDER AS TO WHAT STEPS HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO COMPLY HEREWITH. ISSUED, WASHINGTON, D.C., FEBRUARY 4, 1982 RONALD W. HAUGHTON, CHAIRMAN HENRY B. FRAZIER III, MEMBER LEON B. APPLEWHAITE, MEMBER FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY NOTICE TO ALL EMPLOYEES PURSUANT TO A DECISION AND ORDER OF THE FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY AND IN ORDER TO EFFECTUATE THE POLICIES OF CHAPTER 71 OF TITLE 5 OF THE UNITED STATES CODE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS WE HEREBY NOTIFY OUR EMPLOYEES THAT: WE WILL NOT FAIL AND REFUSE TO COMPLY WITH DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICE IMPASSES PANEL ISSUED OCTOBER 13, 1978, AND APRIL 13, 1979. WE WILL NOT IN ANY LIKE OR RELATED MANNER, INTERFERE WITH, RESTRAIN, OR COERCE OUR EMPLOYEES IN THE EXERCISE OF THEIR RIGHTS ASSURED BY EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491, AS AMENDED, AND THE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE. WE WILL COMPLY AND COOPERATE FORTHWITH WITH DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICE IMPASSES PANEL ISSUED OCTOBER 13, 1978, AND APRIL 13, 1979, AND WILL OTHERWISE COOPERATE IN IMPASSES PROCEDURES AND DECISIONS AS REQUIRED BY THE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE. (AGENCY OR ACTIVITY) DATED: BY: (SIGNATURE) THIS NOTICE MUST REMAIN POSTED FOR 60 CONSECUTIVE DAYS FROM THE DATE OF POSTING AND MUST NOT BE ALTERED, DEFACED, OR COVERED BY ANY OTHER MATERIAL. IF EMPLOYEES HAVE ANY QUESTIONS CONCERNING THIS NOTICE OR COMPLIANCE WITH ANY OF ITS PROVISIONS, THEY MAY COMMUNICATE DIRECTLY WITH THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR FOR THE FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY, WHOSE ADDRESS IS: 540 BUSH STREET, SUITE 500, SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 94102, AND WHOSE TELEPHONE NUMBER IS (415)556-8105. -------------------- ALJ$ DECISION FOLLOWS -------------------- REGIONAL ATTORNEY JOSANNA BERKOW, ESQUIRE OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY REGION 9, 450 GOLDEN GATE AVENUE ROOM 11409, P.O.BOX 36016 SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 94102 FOR THE GENERAL COUNSEL STEPHAN J. EGAN, ESQUIRE DEPUTY ATTORNEY GENERAL STATE OF CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE 555 CAPITOL MALL, SUITE 350 SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA 95814 FOR THE RESPONDENT BEFORE: GARVIN LEE OLIVER ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE DECISION STATEMENT OF THE CASE THESE CASES AROSE PURSUANT TO THE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE, 92 STAT. 1191, 5 U.S.C 7101 ET. SEQ., AS A RESULT OF A CONSOLIDATED UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICE COMPLAINT DATED OCTOBER 31, 1979 FILED BY THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR, REGION 9, FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY, SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA AGAINST THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA NATIONAL GUARD (RESPONDENT). THE COMPLAINT ALLEGED, IN SUBSTANCE, THAT RESPONDENT VIOLATED SECTIONS 19(A)(1) AND (6) OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491, AS AMENDED, AND 5 U.S.C. 7116(1)(1), (5), (6), AND (8) IN THAT SINCE ON OR ABOUT NOVEMBER 12, 1978 RESPONDENT HAS FAILED AND REFUSED TO ADOPT CONTRACT LANGUAGE AND TAKE OTHER AFFIRMATIVE ACTION DIRECTED BY FINAL DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICES IMPASSES PANEL AND HAS FAILED AND REFUSED TO MEET AND NEGOTIATE IN GOOD FAITH WITH THE CHARGING PARTY OR UNION TO DISCUSS MATTERS PERTAINING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THESE FINAL DECISIONS AND ORDERS. RESPONDENT'S ANSWER DENIED THESE ALLEGATIONS AND SET UP AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSES. A HEARING WAS SET IN THIS MATTER FOR JANUARY 8, 1980. HOWEVER, UPON A REPRESENTATION BY COUNSEL FOR THE GENERAL COUNSEL DURING A CONFERENCE CALL THAT A MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT WOULD BE FILED, THE CHIEF JUDGE POSTPONED THE HEARING, AND THE UNDERSIGNED SUBSEQUENTLY ISSUED THE FOLLOWING ORDER: THE FOLLOWING BRIEFING SCHEDULE IS ESTABLISHED IN ORDER TO RULE UPON THE MOTION OR OTHERWISE ASCERTAIN WHAT MATERIAL FACTS EXIST WITHOUT SUBSTANTIAL CONTROVERSY AND WHAT MATERIAL FACTS ARE ACTUALLY AND IN GOOD FAITH CONTROVERTED: 1. THE GENERAL COUNSEL'S MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT SHALL BE SERVED ON RESPONDENT ON OR BEFORE JANUARY 10, 1980. THE BASIC MOTION SHALL INCLUDE A SEPARATELY NUMBERED AND NON-ARGUMENTATIVE STATEMENT OF ALL ALLEGED UNCONTESTED MATERIAL FACTS WHICH PROVIDE THE BASIS FOR THE MOTION, REFERENCED TO THE PARTS OF THE RECORD RELIED UPON OR TO SUPPORTING EXHIBITS AND AFFIDAVITS. 2. RESPONDENT SHALL SERVE ON OR BEFORE JANUARY 28, 1980 A CONCISE STATEMENT OF GENUINE ISSUES WHICH SHALL INCLUDE A STATEMENT OF DISPUTED FACTS, CORRESPONDINGLY NUMBERED TO THE GENERAL COUNSEL'S, AS TO WHICH IT IS CONTENDED THERE EXISTS A GENUINE ISSUE NECESSARY TO BE LITIGATED AS WELL AS A STATEMENT OF ANY ADDITIONAL CONTESTED OR UNCONTESTED MATERIAL FACTS, WITH BOTH STATEMENTS REFERENCED TO THE PARTS OF THE RECORD OR SUPPORTING EXHIBITS AND AFFIDAVITS RELIED UPON. RESPONDENT MAY, IF IT DESIRES, CROSS MOVE FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT AT THIS TIME. 3. THE PARTIES SHALL SERVE ANY ADDITIONAL REPLY STATEMENTS WITH REGARD TO THE FACTS AND ISSUES TOGETHER WITH MEMORANDA OF LAW IN SUPPORT OF OR OPPOSITION TO THE MOTION(S) ON OR BEFORE FEBRUARY 13, 1980. 4. IN DETERMINING THE MOTION(S) FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT AND/OR WHAT FURTHER PROCEEDINGS, IF ANY, ARE NECESSARY, FACTS AS CLAIMED BY A PARTY IN THE PARTY'S STATEMENT OF MATERIAL FACTS WILL BE DEEMED ADMITTED TO EXIST EXCEPT AS AND TO THE EXTENT SUCH FACTS ARE CONTROVERTED AS PRESCRIBED HEREIN. AS INDICATED ABOVE, STATEMENTS OF MATERIAL FACTS MUST BE SEPARATELY NUMBERED AND STATED IN AN OBJECTIVE, AND NON-ARGUMENTATIVE FASHION. THE GENERAL COUNSEL FILED A MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT, STATEMENT OF MATERIAL FACTS, AND MEMORANDUM OF LAW IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ORDER. THE RESPONDENT FILED A RESPONSE TO THE MOTION WHICH MERELY REQUESTED THAT THE MOTION BE DENIED AND THAT A HEARING BE HELD PURSUANT TO 5 U.S.C. 7118(A)(6). RESPONDENT FAILED TO RAISE A SINGLE AREA OF FACTUAL DISPUTE. RESPONDENT DID NOT FILE A MEMORANDUM OF LAW IN OPPOSITION TO THE MOTION OR IN SUPPORT OF ITS AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE. IT HAS LONG BEEN ESTABLISHED THAT THE PURPOSE OF SUMMARY JUDGMENT IS TO AVOID USELESS, EXPENSIVE, AND TIME-CONSUMING TRIALS WHERE THERE ARE NO GENUINE ISSUES OF MATERIAL FACT TO BE TRIED. /2/ FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY REGULATIONS, 5 C.F.R. 2423.19(K)(1980), SPECIFICALLY AUTHORIZE THE USE OF MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT IN THE LITIGATION OF UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICE CHARGES UNDER THE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE. SUCH PRACTICE IS CONSISTENT WITH THE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE ACT /3/ AND WELL-ESTABLISHED PRINCIPLES OF DUE PROCESS AND ADMINISTRATIVE LAW. /4/ UPON EXAMINATION OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL'S MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT AND THE RESPONDENT'S REPLY, IT APPEARS THAT THERE ARE NO GENUINE ISSUES OF MATERIAL FACT AND THAT ONLY LEGAL ISSUES ARE INVOLVED. IN SUCH CIRCUMSTANCES, THE REQUIRED HEARING UNDER THE STATUTE MAY CONSIST WHOLLY OF AN OPPORTUNITY TO PRESENT WRITTEN ARGUMENT. /5/ THE PARTIES HAVE BEEN AFFORDED THAT OPPORTUNITY. UPON CONSIDERATION OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL'S MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT, RESPONDENT'S REPLY THERETO, AND ALL THE PLEADINGS AND EXHIBITS, IT APPEARS THAT THERE IS NO GENUINE ISSUE OF MATERIAL FACT AND THAT THE GENERAL COUNSEL IS ENTITLED TO SUMMARY JUDGMENT AS A MATTER OF LAW. ACCORDINGLY, THE GENERAL COUNSEL'S MOTION IS GRANTED, AND I MAKE THE FOLLOWING FINDINGS OF FACT, CONCLUSIONS OF LAW, AND RECOMMENDATIONS. FOR CONVENIENCE, THE FINDINGS OF FACT ARE IN ESSENTIALLY THE SAME FORM AS PROPOSED BY THE GENERAL COUNSEL AND UNDISPUTED BY RESPONDENT. FINDINGS OF FACT 1. THE RESPONDENT NATIONAL GUARD IS AN AGENCY WITHIN THE MEANING OF 5 U.S.C 7103(A)(3). 2. THE CHARGING PARTIES, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES LOCAL R12-125, R12-132, R12-146, R12-150 AND R12-105, HEREINAFTER UNIONS, ARE LABOR ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE MEANING OF 5 U.S.C. 7103(A)(4). 3. AT ALL TIMES MATERIAL HEREIN, THE UNIONS HAVE BEEN RECOGNIZED BY RESPONDENT AS EXCLUSIVE REPRESENTATIVES FOR APPROPRIATE UNITS OF CIVILIAN NATIONAL GUARD EMPLOYEES. 4. THE CHARGE WAS FILED BY THE UNION, LOCALS R12-125, R12-132, R12-146, AND R12-150, IN FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY CASE NO. 9-CA-44 ON OR ABOUT MAY 7, 1979, AND SERVED UPON RESPONDENT BY THE UNION ON OR ABOUT MAY 4, 1979. (EXHIBIT 1(A)). THE CHARGE WAS FILED BY THE UNION, LOCAL R12-105 IN FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY CASE NO. 9-CA-95 ON OR ABOUT JUNE 22, 1979, AND SERVED UPON RESPONDENT BY THE UNION ON OR ABOUT JUNE 30, 1979. (EXHIBIT 1(B)). THE FIRST AMENDED CHARGE WAS FILED BY THE UNION IN FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY CASE NO. 9-CA-44 ON OR ABOUT OCTOBER 5, 1979, AND SERVED UPON RESPONDENT BY BY THE UNION ON OR ABOUT OCTOBER 3, 1979. (EXHIBIT 1(C)). THE FIRST AMENDED CHARGE WAS FILED BY THE UNION IN FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY CASE NO. 9-CA-95 ON OR ABOUT OCTOBER 5, 1979, AND SERVED UPON RESPONDENT BY THE UNION ON OR ABOUT OCTOBER 3, 1979. (EXHIBIT 1(D)). 5. THE RESPONDENT FILED A RESPONSE DATED MAY 21, 1979, TO THE CHARGE IN 9-CA-44 ON MAY 23, 1979 (EXHIBIT 1(E) TOGETHER WITH ATTACHMENTS (EXHIBITS 2-10). 6. THE RESPONDENT FILED A RESPONSE DATED JULY 25, 1979, TO THE CHARGE IN 9-CA-95 ON JULY 30, 1979 (EXHIBIT 1(F)) TOGETHER WITH ATTACHMENTS (EXHIBITS 2-10). 7. ON OCTOBER 31, 1979 AN ORDER CONSOLIDATING CASES, COMPLAINT AND NOTICE OF HEARING WAS ISSUED IN CASE NOS. 9-CA-44 AND 9-CA-95 (EXHIBIT 1(G). 8. RESPONDENT'S ANSWER TO THE COMPLAINT WAS FILED WITH THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR ON NOVEMBER 19, 1979. (EXHIBIT 1(H)). AN ORDER EXTENDING TIME FOR ANSWER WAS ENTERED ON NOVEMBER 16, 1979. (EXHIBIT 1(I)). 9. IN 1977 AND 1978, AFTER EXTENSIVE NEGOTIATIONS AND THE ASSISTANCE OF THE FEDERAL MEDIATION AND CONCILIATION SERVICE, THE UNION FILED REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE WITH THE FEDERAL SERVICE IMPASSES PANEL, HEREINAFTER, FSIP OR PANEL, TO CONSIDER A NEGOTIATION IMPASSE WHICH THE PARTIES HAD FAILED TO RESOLVE BY VOLUNTARY ARRANGEMENTS, CONCERNING THE ISSUE OF MILITARY ATTIRE FOR CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES. (EXHIBITS 2A-2E). 10. UPON RECEIPT OF THE UNIONS' REQUEST, THE FSIP, IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAW AND REGULATION, CONDUCTED AN INFORMATION INQUIRY. THEREAFTER, ON JUNE 30, 1978 THE FSIP ISSUED ORDERS OF SHOW CAUSE UPON RESPONDENT. (EXHIBITS 3A-3E). 11. ON JULY 18, 1978, THE NATIONAL GUARD FILED ITS COLLECTIVE RESPONSE TO THE ORDERS TO SHOW CAUSE IN CASE NOS. 77 FSIP 70, 78 FSIP 42, 77 FSIP 77, 78 FSIP 44 AND 78 FSIP 49, SETTING FORTH BOTH ITS ARGUMENTS AND EVIDENCE IN SUPPORT OF ITS POSITION IN OPPOSITION TO THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. THE RESPONDENT ALSO INFORMED THE PANEL AT THIS TIME THAT A DECERTIFICATION PETITION HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR FOR UNION LOCAL R12-105. (EXHIBIT 4). 12. ON OCTOBER 13, 1978, THE FSIP ISSUED ITS DECISIONS AND ORDERS IN CASE NOS. 77 FSIP 77, 78 FSIP 42, 78 FSIP 44 AND 78 FSIP 49 AND ON APRIL 13, 1979 IN CASE NO. 77 FSIP 70, ORDERING THAT: 1. THE PARTIES ADOPT THE FOLLOWING LANGUAGE IN THEIR AGREEMENT: EMPLOYEES, WHILE PERFORMING THEIR DAY-TO-DAY TECHNICIAN DUTIES, SHALL HAVE THE OPTION OF WEARING EITHER (A) THE MILITARY UNIFORM OR (B) AN AGREED-UPON STANDARD CIVILIAN ATTIRE WITHOUT DISPLAY OF MILITARY RANK, SUCH CLOTHING TO BE PURCHASED BY EMPLOYEES WHO CHOOSE TO WEAR IT. 2. CIRCUMSTANCES AND OCCASIONS FOR WHICH THE WEARING OF THE MILITARY UNIFORM MAY BE REQUIRED SHALL BE AGREED UPON BY THE PARTIES AND INCORPORATED IN THEIR AGREEMENT. THE FSIP FURTHER DIRECTED THE PARTIES TO SEND EVIDENCE OF COMPLIANCE WITH ITS ORDERS WITHIN 30 DAYS OF RECEIPT THEREOF. (EXHIBITS 5 AND 6). 13. ON NOVEMBER 17, 1978, THE NATIONAL GUARD FILED A MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION OF THE DECISION AND ORDER OF OCTOBER 13, 1978 IN CASE NOS. 77 FSIP 77, 78 FSIP 42, 78 FSIP 44, 78 FSIP 49 WITH FSIP. (EXHIBIT 7). 14. ON JANUARY 18, 1979, FSIP DENIED RESPONDENT'S MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION OF ITS OCTOBER 13, 1978 DECISION AND ORDER. (EXHIBIT 8). 15. ON MARCH 12, 1979, THE NATIONAL GUARD FILED A REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION WITH THE FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY HEREINAFTER, FLRA, OF CASE NOS. 77 FSIP 77, 78 FSIP 42, 78 FSIP 44, AND 78 FSIP 49. ON MAY 2, 1979 RESPONDENT WROTE FLRA REQUESTING THAT 77 FSIP 70 BE ADDED TO THE ABOVE CONSOLIDATED CASES SUBMITTED PER THE REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION. (EXHIBIT 9 AND 10). 16. ON DECEMBER 5, 1979, FLRA DENIED RESPONDENT'S REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF 77 FSIP 77, 78 FSIP 42, 78 FSIP 44 AND 78 FSIP 49. ON DECEMBER 5, 1979 FLRA DENIED RESPONDENT'S REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF 77 FSIP 70. (EXHIBITS 11 AND 12). 17. RESPONDENT HAS FAILED AND REFUSED TO ADOPT THE CONTRACT LANGUAGE SET OUT IN PARAGRAPH 12, ABOVE, INTO ITS COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT WITH THE UNION AS DIRECTED BY FSIP AS ITS FINAL RESOLUTION OF THE IMPASSE BETWEEN RESPONDENT AND THE UNION. 18. RESPONDENT HAS FAILED AND REFUSED TO MEET AND NEGOTIATE WITH THE UNION TO DISCUSS THE IMPLEMENTATION OF FSIP'S FINAL DECISIONS AND ORDER TO THE EXTENT REQUIRED BY THE DECISIONS AND ORDERS. 19. RESPONDENT HAS FAILED AND REFUSED TO FOLLOW FSIP'S DIRECTION TO SEND THE PANEL EVIDENCE OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE FINAL DECISIONS AND ORDERS WITHIN 30 DAYS OF RESPONDENT'S RECEIPT THEREOF. DISCUSSION, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS THE UNDISPUTED FACTS REFLECT THAT SINCE THE PANEL ISSUED ITS DECISIONS AND ORDERS DATED OCTOBER 13, 1978 AND APRIL 13, 1979, RESOLVING THE NEGOTIATION IMPASSE, RESPONDENT HAS FAILED AND REFUSED TO COMPLY WITH THE DECISIONS AND ORDERS. RESPONDENT HAS FAILED AND REFUSED TO MEET WITH THE UNIONS; HAS NOT AGREED TO ADOPT THE MANDATED LANGUAGE IN THE AGREEMENT; AND HAS PRESENTED NO EVIDENCE OF COMPLIANCE WITHIN THE 30 DAY PERIOD ORDERED BY THE PANEL. ALTHOUGH RESPONDENT DID NOT SUBMIT A MEMORANDUM OF LAW IN SUPPORT OF ITS POSITION IN THIS CASE, ITS AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSES SET FORTH IN THE ANSWER HAVE, NEVERTHELESS, BEEN CONSIDERED IN LIGHT OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL'S POSITION ON THESE DEFENSES AND THE RECORD AS A WHOLE. RESPONDENT ASSERTS THAT THE FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY LACKS JURISDICTION TO ENTERTAIN THE CHARGES IN THE COMPLAINT INASMUCH AS SUCH CHARGES ARE PREMATURE WHILE A PETITION FOR RECONSIDERATION OF THE ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICES IMPASSES PANEL IS PENDING BEFORE THE AUTHORITY. RESPONDENT ALSO CLAIMS THAT CONSIDERATION OF THE CHARGES AT THIS TIME WOULD CONSTITUTE A DENIAL OF DUE PROCESS AND EQUAL PROTECTION OF THE LAW. RESPONDENT'S DEFENSES IN THIS REGARD HAVE BEEN RENDERED MOOT BY THE DECISIONS OF THE AUTHORITY, DATED DECEMBER 5, 1979, DENYING THE PETITIONS. (EXHIBITS 11 AND 12). SEE ALSO STATE OF NEW YORK, DIVISION OF MILITARY AND NAVAL AFFAIRS AND NEW YORK COUNCIL, ASSOCIATION OF CIVILIAN TECHNICIANS, INC., 78 FSIP 32, FLRA NO. 0-MC-2, 2 FLRA 20 (DEC. 5, 1979). RESPONDENT'S THIRD AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE ALLEGES THAT THE IMPASSE PANEL DECISIONS AND ORDERS ARE INVALID BECAUSE THEY: (A) ARE BASED ON A REQUIREMENT FOR THE CALIFORNIA NATIONAL GUARD TO JUSTIFY VIA A STANDARD OF "COMPELLING NEED" A DEFENSE DEPARTMENT AND CALIFORNIA REGULATIONS WHICH RESPONDENT DEEMS TO BE NON-NEGOTIABLE, (B) IMPROPERLY BY AGENCY REGULATION ATTEMPT TO ABROGATE THE AUTHORITY OF THE COMMANDING GENERAL - STATE MILITARY FORCES GRANTED HIM BY FEDERAL STATUTE, TO WIT, TITLE 32, UNITED STATES CODE, SECTION 709(C), (C) IMPROPERLY ATTEMPT TO VITIATE A MILITARY REGULATION, A MATTER OVER WHICH FLRA HAS NO AUTHORITY, SINCE IN THIS INSTANCE FLRA POWERS DERIVE FROM AN EXECUTIVE ORDER WHILE THE MILITARY AUTHORITY STEMS FROM ACTS OF CONGRESS, (D) ARE BASED ON CRITERIA DEVELOPED OUTSIDE OF THE THEN FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS COUNCIL'S GRANT OF AUTHORITY BY CONGRESS, (E) ARE BASED ON RULES WHICH VIOLATE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF EQUITY AND ADMINISTRATIVE LAW. RESPONDENT'S DEFENSES (A) THROUGH (D), WHILE COUCHED IN TERMS OF OBJECTIONS TO THE IMPASSES PANEL DECISIONS APPEAR FROM THE RECORD TO ACTUALLY CONCERN THE NEGOTIABILITY OF THE MATTER AT IMPASSE, I.E., THE SUBJECT OF CIVILIAN GUARD TECHNICIAN ATTIRE, AND, IN SHORT, CONSTITUTE AN ATTEMPT TO COLLATERALLY ATTACK THE DECISION OF THE FEDERAL RELATIONS COUNCIL IN WHICH THE COUNCIL DETERMINED THAT THE PROPOSALS BEFORE IT CONCERNING TECHNICIAN ATTIRE WERE PROPERLY SUBJECT TO NEGOTIATION UNDER SECTION 11(A) OF THE EXECUTIVE ORDER. /6/ THE IMPASSES PANEL DOES NOT DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT AN ISSUE IS NEGOTIABLE, /7/ AND, THUS, ITS DECISION IS NOT SUBJECT TO A COLLATERAL ATTACK. MOREOVER, RESPONDENT COULD HAVE OBTAINED REVIEW OF THE COUNCIL'S DECISION IN DISTRICT COURT UNDER THE JUDICIAL REVIEW PROVISIONS OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE ACT, 5 U.S.C. 701 ET. SEQ. NATIONAL BROILER COUNCIL INC. V. FLRA, 382 F.SUPP. 322, 86 LRRM 2113 (E.D. VA. 1974). IN THAT CASE, AFTER DETERMINING THAT A COUNCIL NEGOTIABILITY DECISION WAS A "FINAL AGENCY ACTION" FOR PURPOSES OF JUDICIAL REVIEW UNDER 5 U.S.C. 701 ET, SEQ., THE COURT REVIEWED OBJECTIONS TO THE COUNCIL'S DECISION ANALOGOUS TO THOSE RAISED BY RESPONDENT HEREIN; INCLUDING A DETERMINATION THAT THE PETITIONER BROILER COUNCIL, WHILE NOT A PARTICIPANT IN THE PROCEEDINGS BEFORE THE COUNCIL, WAS AN INTERESTED PARTY WITH STANDING TO SEEK JUDICIAL REVIEW. RESPONDENT'S DEFENSE (E), THAT THE PANEL'S DECISION IS BASED ON RULES WHICH VIOLATE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF EQUITY AND ADMINISTRATIVE LAW, APPEARS TO RELATE TO RESPONDENT'S ARGUMENT THAT THE PANEL WAS REQUIRED TO HOLD A FACT-FINDING HEARING IN THE CASE. IN ITS DECISION AND ORDER DATED OCTOBER 13, 1978, (EXHIBIT 5), THE PANEL STATED THAT NEITHER EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491 NOR THE PANEL'S OWN RULES REQUIRED IT TO HOLD A HEARING IN EACH AND EVERY CASE. THE PANEL NOTED: IN THE RESPONSE ITSELF THE EMPLOYER ARGUES THAT THE ORDERS TO SHOW CAUSE DEPRIVE THE EMPLOYER OF ITS RIGHTS UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491 AND THE PANEL'S RULES OF PROCEDURE. EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491 AND THE PANEL'S RULES, HOWEVER CONTAIN NO REQUIREMENT THAT A HEARING BE HELD IN EACH AND EVERY CASE. RATHER, SECTIONS 4 AND 17 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491 PROVIDE THAT THE PANEL "MAY TAKE ANY ACTION IT CONSIDERS NECESSARY TO SETTLE AN IMPASSE" AND "MAY SETTLE THE IMPASSE BY APPROPRIATE ACTION." THIS BROAD AUTHORITY TO RESOLVE NEGOTIATION IMPASSES HAS BEEN INCORPORATED IN SECTIONS 2471.6(A)(6), 2471.13(D)(2), AND 2471.15 OF THE PANEL'S RULES. THUS, UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THESE CASES, WHERE THE PANEL HAS (1) PREVIOUSLY CONSIDERED THE ISSUE AT IMPASSE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, (2) DETERMINE THAT THESE CASES APPEAR ESSENTIALLY SIMILAR TO THOSE EARLIER CASES, AND (3) DETERMINED THAT IT IS NECESSARY TO SETTLE PROMPTLY THESE PROTRACTED IMPASSES, THE PANEL'S ACTION-AFFORDING THE PARTIES AN OPPORTUNITY TO STATE IN WRITING WHAT MATERIAL FACTS THEY BELIEVE ARE SIGNIFICANTLY DIFFERENT FROM OTHER NATIONAL GUARD UNIFORM CASES-IS CONSISTENT WITH ITS AUTHORITY UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491 AND ITS RULES. (FOOTNOTE OMITTED.) IN ITS SHOW CAUSE ORDERS DATED JUNE 30, 1978 (EXHIBITS 3(A)-(E)) THE PANEL AFFORDED RESPONDENT AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHOW CAUSE, IN WRITING, WHY CONTRACT LANGUAGE ORDERED BY THE PANEL IN ELEVEN PRIOR CASES CONCERNING THE UNIFORM ISSUE SHOULD NOT ALSO BE ADOPTED IN THESE CASES. RESPONDENT WAS ORDERED TO SPECIFY WHAT MATERIAL FACTS WERE SIGNIFICANTLY DIFFERENT FROM THE PREVIOUS CASES. RESPONDENT CHOSE TO RELY ON ITS RESPONSE TO THE SHOW CAUSE ORDER (EXHIBIT 4) TO SUPPORT ITS POSITION. AFTER CONSIDERING THE RESPONSE, THE PANEL HELD THAT THE RESPONSE DID NOT SHOW MATERIAL FACTS SIGNIFICANTLY DIFFERENT FROM THOSE CONSIDERED IN PREVIOUS CASES; DETERMINED THAT THE HOLDING OF A FACTFINDING HEARING WAS NOT WARRANTED; AND, ACCORDINGLY, IT ISSUED ITS DECISION AND ORDER. (EXHIBIT 5 AND 6). THE DECISIONS OF THE PANEL THOROUGHLY DISCUSSED AND REJECTED EACH ARGUMENT RAISED BY THE RESPONSE. RESPONDENT THEN FILED A MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION OF THE PANEL'S DECISION AND ORDER. (EXHIBIT 7). AGAIN THE PANEL ADDRESSED EACH ARGUMENT RAISED BY RESPONDENT IN A DETAILED ANALYSIS EMBODIED IN ITS DENIAL AND RESPONDENT'S MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION DATED JANUARY 9, 1979. (EXHIBIT 8). IT IS CONCLUDED THAT THE PANEL AFFORDED RESPONDENT AMPLE OPPORTUNITY TO PRESENT EVIDENCE AND ARGUMENT CONSISTENT WITH ITS BROAD AUTHORITY UNDER SECTIONS 5 AND 17 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 11941, AS AMENDED, TO RESOLVE NEGOTIATION IMPASSES IN THE FEDERAL SECTOR; THAT RESPONDENT WAS AFFORDED PROCEDURAL DUE PROCESS, THAT THERE IS A RATIONAL BASIS FOR THE PANEL'S DECISIONS; AND THAT THE PANEL'S DECISIONS AND ORDER IN THESE CASES WERE NEITHER ARBITRARY NOR CAPRICIOUS, BUT ARE LEGAL AND VALID. THE RECORD DEMONSTRATES THAT RESPONDENT HAS FAILED AND REFUSED TO COMPLY AND COOPERATE WITH FINAL DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICES IMPASSES PANEL, IN VIOLATION OF 5 U.S.C. 7116(A)(6) AND (8), HAS FAILED AND REFUSED TO CONSULT AND NEGOTIATE WITH THE UNION CONCERNING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PANEL'S FINAL DECISIONS AND ORDERS, IN VIOLATION OF SECTION 19(A)(6) OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491, AS AMENDED, AND 5 U.S.C. 7116(A)(5), AND, BY SUCH ACTION, HAS INTERFERED WITH AND RESTRAINED THE EXERCISE BY EMPLOYEES OF THEIR RIGHTS IN VIOLATION OF SECTION 19(A)(1) OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491, AS AMENDED, AND 5 U.S.C. 7116(A)(1). ACCORDINGLY, I RECOMMEND THAT THE AUTHORITY ISSUE THE FOLLOWING ORDER: ORDER PURSUANT TO 5 U.S.C.SECTION 7118(A)(7)(A) AND SECTION 7135 AND 5 C.F.R.SECTION 2423.29(B)(1), THE AUTHORITY HEREBY ORDERS THAT THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA NATIONAL GUARD SHALL: 1. CEASE AND DESIST FROM: (A) FAILING AND REFUSING THE COMPLY AND COOPERATE WITH DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICES IMPASSES PANEL ISSUED OCTOBER 13, 1978 AND APRIL 13, 1979. (B) FAILING AND REFUSING TO MEET AND NEGOTIATE IN GOOD FAITH WITH THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES, LOCALS R12-105, R12-125, R12-132, R12-146, AND R12-150 CONCERNING MATTERS PERTAINING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICES IMPASSES PANEL ISSUED OCTOBER 13, 1978 AND APRIL 13, 1979 TO THE EXTENT REQUIRED BY SUCH DECISIONS AND ORDERS. (C) IN ANY LIKE OR RELATED MANNER, INTERFERING WITH, RESTRAINING, OR COERCING EMPLOYEES IN THE EXERCISE OF THEIR RIGHTS ASSURED BY EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491, AS AMENDED, AND THE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE. 2. TAKE THE FOLLOWING AFFIRMATIVE ACTION IN ORDER TO CARRY OUT THE PURPOSES AND POLICIES OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491, AS AMENDED, AND THE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE: (A) COMPLY AND COOPERATE FORTHWITH WITH DECISIONS AND ORDER OF THE FEDERAL SERVICES IMPASSES PANEL ISSUED OCTOBER 13, 1978 AND APRIL 13, 1979. (B) MEET WITH THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES, LOCAL 12-105, R12-125, R12-132, R12-146, AND R12-150 AND NEGOTIATE IN GOOD FAITH CONCERNING MATTERS PERTAINING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICES IMPASSES PANEL ISSUED OCTOBER 13, 1978 AND APRIL 13, 1979 TO THE EXTENT REQUIRED BY SUCH DECISIONS AND ORDERS. (C) POST AT ITS FACILITIES COPIES OF THE ATTACHED NOTICE MARKED "APPENDIX" ON FORMS TO BE FURNISHED BY THE AUTHORITY. UPON RECEIPT OF SUCH FORMS, THEY SHALL BE SIGNED BY THE COMMANDING GENERAL, CALIFORNIA NATIONAL GUARD, AND SHALL BE POSTED AND MAINTAINED BY HIM FOR 60 CONSECUTIVE DAYS THEREAFTER, IN CONSPICUOUS PLACES, INCLUDING ALL BULLETIN BOARDS AND OTHER PLACES WHERE NOTICES TO EMPLOYEES ARE CUSTOMARILY POSTED. THE COMMANDING GENERAL SHALL TAKE REASONABLE STEPS TO INSURE THAT SUCH NOTICES ARE NOT ALTERED, DEFACED, OR COVERED BY ANY OTHER MATERIAL. (D) PURSUANT TO 5 C.F.R. SECTION 2423.30 NOTIFY THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR, FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY, REGION 9, 450 GOLDEN GATE AVENUE, ROOM 11409, P. O. BOX 36016, SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 94102, IN WRITING, WITHIN 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS ORDER, AS TO WHAT STEPS HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO COMPLY HEREWITH. GARVIN LEE OLIVER ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE DATED: MARCH 21, 1980 WASHINGTON, D.C. APPENDIX PURSUANT TO A DECISION AND ORDER OF THE FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY AND IN ORDER TO EFFECTUATE THE POLICIES OF CHAPTER 71 OF TITLE 5 OF THE UNITED STATES CODE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS WE HEREBY NOTIFY OUR EMPLOYEES THAT: WE WILL NOT FAIL AND REFUSE TO COMPLY WITH DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICES IMPASSES PANEL ISSUED OCTOBER 13, 1978 AND APRIL 13, 1979. WE WILL NOT IN ANY LIKE OR RELATED MANNER INTERFERE WITH, RESTRAIN, OR COERCE OUR EMPLOYEES IN THE EXERCISE OF THEIR RIGHTS ASSURED BY EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491, AS AMENDED, AND THE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE. WE WILL COMPLY AND COOPERATE FORTHWITH WITH DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICES IMPASSES PANEL ISSUED OCTOBER 13, 1978 AND APRIL 13, 1979 AND WILL OTHERWISE COOPERATE IN IMPASSE PROCEDURES AND DECISIONS AS REQUIRED BY THE FEDERAL SERVICES LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE. WE WILL MEET WITH THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES, LOCALS R12-105, R12-125, R12-132, R12-146, AND R12-150, AND NEGOTIATE IN GOOD FAITH CONCERNING MATTERS PERTAINING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DECISIONS AND ORDERS OF THE FEDERAL SERVICES IMPASSES PANEL ISSUED OCTOBER 13, 1978 AND APRIL 13, 1979 TO THE EXTENT REQUIRED BY SUCH DECISIONS AND ORDERS. (AGENCY OR ACTIVITY) DATED: BY: (SIGNATURE) THIS NOTICE MUST REMAIN POSTED FOR 60 CONSECUTIVE DAYS FROM THE DATE OF POSTING AND MUST NOT BE ALTERED, DEFACED, OR COVERED BY ANY OTHER MATERIAL. IF EMPLOYEES HAVE ANY QUESTIONS CONCERNING THIS NOTICE OR COMPLIANCE WITH ANY OF ITS PROVISIONS, THEY MAY COMMUNICATE DIRECTLY WITH THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR, FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY, REGION 9, 450 GOLDEN GATE AVENUE, ROOM 11409, P. O. BOX 36016, SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 94102. --------------- FOOTNOTES: --------------- /1/ IN ITS EXCEPTIONS, THE RESPONDENT CONTENDS THAT IT WAS NOT AFFORDED OPPORTUNITY TO PRESENT LEGAL ARGUMENTS PURSUANT TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE'S GRANTING OF A SUMMARY JUDGMENT. IN THIS REGARD, RESPONDENT CONTENDS IT ONLY HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO RESPOND TO GENERAL COUNSEL'S INITIAL MOTION FOR PARTIAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT. IT APPEARS THAT THE RESPONDENT WAS FULLY AWARE OF THE SCHEDULE, NATURE AND EXTENT OF RESPONSE REQUIRED TO PRESERVE ITS RIGHTS, AND WAS NOT PREJUDICED BY THE CAPTIONING OF GENERAL COUNSEL'S PLEADING AS "PARTIAL" WHICH WAS PREDICATED UPON THE BRIEFING SCHEDULE AGREED TO BY THE PARTIES. /2/ CF. FED. R. CIV. P. 56; LYONS V. BD. OF ED. CHARLESTON REORGANIZED SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 1 OF MISS. CTY., MO., 523 F.2D 340, 347 (8TH CIR., 1975). /3/ THE FEDERAL SERVICE LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS STATUTE REQUIRES THAT HEARINGS BE CONDUCTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE ACT, 5 U.S.C. 551 ET. SEQ., TO THE EXTENT PRACTICABLE. 5 U.S.C. 7118(A)(6). MOTIONS IN THE NATURE OF MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT ARE DEEMED APPROPRIATE UNDER THE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE ACT. SEE, E.G., MUNICIPAL LIGHT BOARDS OF READING AND WAKEFIELD, MASS V. FEDERAL POWER COMMISSION, 450 F.2D 1341, 1345-1346 (D.C. CIR., 1971), CERT. DENIED, 405 U.S. 989(1972). /4/ DAVIS, ADMINISTRATIVE LAW TREATISE, SECOND EDITION, SECS. 12.1, 12.10(1979). /5/ CF. DAVIS, SUPRA, SEC. 12.1, AT P. 406. THE PRACTICE UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491, AS AMENDED, WAS SUBSTANTIALLY THE SAME. SEE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, A/SLMR NO. 897, 7 A/SLMR 782(1977). /6/ NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES, LOCAL R14-87 AND KANSAS NATIONAL GUARD, 5 FLRC 124, 336 (FLRC NO. 76A-16 (AND OTHER CASES CONSOLIDATED THEREWITH) (JANUARY 19, 1977), REPORT NO. 120); AND NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, LOCAL 1636 AND STATE OF NEW MEXICO NATIONAL GUARD, 5 FLRC 146, 336 (FLRC NO. 76A-75 (AND OTHER CASES CONSOLIDATED THEREWITH) (JANUARY 19, 1977), REPORT NO. 120); RECONSIDERATION DENIED, 5 FLRC 336 (MAY 18, 1977), REPORT NO. 125. /7/ 5 U.S.C. 7119; 5 U.S.C. 7117; SECTION 11 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 11491, AS AMENDED. SEE ALSO THE PANEL'S COMMENTS ON THIS QUESTION IN ITS DECISION AND ORDER IN THE INSTANT CASE. (EXHIBIT 5, P. 3).