Union officers can negotiate additional rights to present the views of the union on official time based on Section 7102, Title 5 of the U.S. Code, 5 U.S.C. 7102 that says in part:
"...Except as otherwise provided under this chapter, such right includes the right -
(1) to act for a labor organization in the capacity of a rep resentative and the right, in that capacity, to present the views of the labor organization to heads of agen cies and other officials of the executive branch of the Government, the Congress, or other appropriate authorities..."
When official time is negotiated, the union official can then con- tact Congressional officials. However, even when you have negotiated such a provision, remember that you are doing so as a union representative. So, for example, you should not use your agency business cards or official government job title. You must use AFGE business cards that identify you as a union representative. Also be aware that yearly appropriations bills may contain changing language that may impact the ability to negotiate this activity, for lobbying.
For more information on negotiating official time for Local Officials, contact the AFGE General Counsels Office