ARTICLE 1
RECOGNITION

Section 1 - Recognition:
The District of Columbia Government (hereinafter referred to as the “District” or “Employer”) hereby recognizes as the sole and exclusive representative for the purpose of collective bargaining, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO, District of Columbia District Council 20, and its affiliated Local Unions (hereinafter referred to collectively as the “Union” or “AFSCME”) for each of the bargaining units under the personnel authority of the Mayor for which AFSCME is the certified collective bargaining representative.

Section 2 - Bargaining Units Descriptions:
This Agreement may also include agencies with independent personnel authority if they have executed an addendum opting to be covered by the provisions herein.

Section 3 - Coverage:
AFSCME, the certified exclusive representative of all employees in the bargaining unit referenced above, shall be responsible for representing the interests of employees in the units without discrimination as to membership; provided, however, that an employee who does not pay dues or service fees may be required by the Union to pay reasonable costs for personal representation.

Section 4 - New Units:
Bargaining units of employees under the administrative jurisdiction of either the Mayor of the District of Columbia certified during the term of this Agreement shall be covered by the provisions of this Agreement, if agreed to by the parties.

Section 4 - Unit Clarification(s):
The Union arid the Employer shall file a Joint Petition with the Public Employee Relations Board to clarify and correct inaccuracies contained on the current unit certifications. Prior to filing of the joint petition, the Union and Employer shall confer on the revised unit descriptions.