USPS Attempts to End Per Diem at NCED

By Tom Marquez, Editor - CPWU

On November 6, 2025, the Postal Service notified the APWU of its intent to cease per diem payments for employees attending off-site training and to revert to providing three daily meals at the Three Squares Eatery located at the National Center for Employee Development (NCED). Management claims the per diem program was a “trial” and that the trial period has ended.

The Union strongly disputes this claim. The APWU maintains that the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) governing per diem remains in full force and effect for the duration of the 2024–2027 National Agreement and cannot be unilaterally terminated by the Postal Service.

USPS’s attempt to withdraw from this MOU outside of established bargaining procedures represents a serious step backward in labor-management relations. If allowed to stand, it would undermine a program that postal  employees have relied upon during training and travel assignments.

Where We Stand Now

Originally, USPS indicated the per diem program would end no earlier than January 2026. However, to allow for further discussion between the APWU and USPS, implementation has been delayed until March 1, 2026.

The Union is actively pursuing all available options, including legal avenues and the filing of national-level disputes. The APWU contends that the Postal Service’s actions violate Articles 5, 19, and 37/38 of the National Agreement. APWU President Jonathan Smith continues to engage management in negotiations on this issue.

What Your Union Needs From You

· Dates and developments may change, so keep an eye on the APWU and CPWU websites.

· Notify the Union immediately if your per diem request is denied by contacting a steward.

(Adapted from an article originally published in the Denver BMC Newsletter, APWU/Local 7029, January 2026 also written by Tom Marquez)