In a decision issued on June 21, 2017, Arbitrator Shyam Das, concluded that postal employees including mail handlers are entitled to administrative leave (voting) under ELM 519.32 when they participate in presidential caucuses. The case was filed by the NALC, and the NPMHU and the APWU intervened. Notably, fifteen states and several territories held party caucuses rather than primary elections in 2016.

The decision was distributed to all Local Preisdents and is posted for your review. (pdf)