Department of Agriculture) is an association of professional employees with the mission to enhance the effectiveness of members in the performance of their duties. It seeks to provide enlightened guidance and representation before Congress, the Administration, and other employee groups and organizations and the public on matters that promote the efficient and effective operation of agencies of the
U.S. Membership is open to all USDA employees and retirees regardless of race, color, national origin, s*x, religion, age, disability, s*xual orientation, marital or familial status, political beliefs, parental status, receipt of public assistance, or protected genetic information. Over two thirds of OPEDA’s members are located outside the Washington D.C., metro area. What has OPEDA been doing for you? OPEDA keeps its members informed through newsletters, alert mailings, e-mail, web site, and events. OPEDA has been the foremost exponent of the principle of pay comparability-with-private industry and will continue its efforts in this regard, especially in pursuit of compliance with the Pay Comparability Act of 1990. OPEDA was instrumental in gaining increased annuities for retirees and their survivors, and has been active in efforts to gain equal treatment for women in these benefits. OPEDA voiced strong opposition to House and Senate Budget Resolutions to change the federal annuity computation from the highest three years of salary to the highest five. OPEDA protested a House proposal to raise employee contributions to retirement by 2.5 percent. OPEDA urged key Representatives to oppose a plan to shift health care premium increases to federal employees, absolving the government of responsibility to held hold down health cost increases. OPEDA was a pioneer in advancing optional retirement at full annuity at age 55 after 30 years of service, with became law in 1966. Join OPEDA today!
