It’s Not Scary to Be a Member of the VGEA

October 31, 2022 – Richmond, VA

It’s Not Scary to Be a Member of the VGEA

We occasionally hear stories that some state employees and human resources managers believe that the VGEA is a union. We’re not. But to some, just hearing the word union is scary. Other employees fear that they will be looked at unfavorably by their management or agency for joining the VGEA. They won’t. We have a long and storied history, and we’ve been advocating for current and retired state employee rights for over 50 years. 

There’s no reason to be afraid. VGEA membership isn’t scary: it’s empowering. 

1. You’re not alone.

We have thousands of members in agencies throughout the state, and our membership is growing. The larger our membership, the stronger we all are.

2. We’re not a union.

While employee unions and employee associations do share some things in common (ex. they both value and represent workers’ rights), one significant difference is found in our VGEA bylaws: “The VGEA is not to be affiliated with any local, state, or national labor union…shall not engage in any form of collective bargaining…and shall never employ or utilize a strike or threat of a work stoppage.” Instead, we listen to members, develop relationships with the administration, and advocate on their behalf.  We employ lobbyists who respectfully represent our collective voice and urge legislation that is in the best interest of our members—from pay and telework to health care and retiree benefits and beyond.

3. We don’t charge union fees.

Unions typically charge their members 1.5-3% of their annual salary in union fees! VGEA membership is only $96/year for employees and $48/year for retirees.

4. We keep info private.

We never share personal data with state management, agency leaders, or third parties without permission. When we collect and share survey results with the administration, we always keep personal data private. Members can also request that VGEA send communications to their personal email address vs. their work email. 

We are voluntary, we are nonpartisan, and we support solutions that lead to equitable compensation, excellent benefits, and safe working conditions. We are the VGEA.

To learn more about how we advocate for you or how to join, visit vgea.org/member or reach out to the VGEA team at vgea.org/contact or info@vgea.org.