Editor’s UPDATE: USPS eLRA System Raises Major Concerns

A few weeks ago (5/21/2025) on our website, I posted an article about Sick Leave with ELM language and a downloadable PDF to help members defend against abusive managers who constantly request documentation. Funny enough, USPS recently sent out a mailer about Sick Leave using similar ELM references, but they conveniently left out the self-protective parts. I’m not saying USPS directly “responded” to my article, but the timing couldn’t have been funnier.

National Union Raises Red Flags Over eLRA
APWU Industrial Relations Director Charlie Cash recently issued a strong advisory regarding USPS’s Enterprise Leave Request Application (eLRA) system. While management has begun the appearance of pushing eLRA as the default method for submitting leave requests, you are NOT required to use it.

According to Brother Cash:

“There is no requirement to use the eLRA; it is voluntary. The IVR (phone system) can still be used to notify the Postal Service of absences. eLRA does not replace the paper PS Form 3971, nor are there current plans for this.”

In fact, the APWU National is deeply concerned about how eLRA is being used, and potentially misused, by management.

Charlie Cash warns that:

  • eLRA requires employees to consent to being monitored, including location data.
  • Requests for more than 3 days of leave automatically prompt a documentation requirement, even when ELM rules wouldn’t require it.
  • Employees may not be shown their PS Form 3971 upon returning to work, despite ELM and Handbook F-21 requiring it.
  • Some members have only seen their 3971 during disciplinary interviews, long after they had a chance to verify the information.

Your Right to Use the IVR System Still Stands
Let’s be clear: USPS cannot force you to use eLRA. You still have the right to report absences through the IVR phone call-out system and to manually complete and sign a PS Form 3971 upon returning to work.

What You Should Do
If you experience any of the following:

  • Management says eLRA is mandatory,
  • You are not given a PS Form 3971 to verify upon return to work,
  • You are being pressured to use eLRA without knowing your rights,

Immediately report it to your Union Steward or the Local Office.
We are documenting every instance and will respond with the appropriate contractual enforcement.

Stay Informed, Stay Protected
This fight isn’t just about leave; it’s about control, transparency, and respect for our rights. We will continue to keep members informed and equipped. Stay connected to our website, app, newsletter and come out to the General Members Meetings for updates.

South Jersey Area Local members, get the app!!

In solidarity

SJAL Townhall Zoom Meeting

Local Townhall Zoom Meeting
In an effort to get more members involved and informed, a Townhall Meeting for our members via ZOOM is happening Tuesday, June 10th at 7 PM. Non-members, members serving in a management capacity or management officials will not be allowed into the meeting. This meeting is not meant to replace the General Membership Meetings, which are required by the constitution. This will also be a good time to bring up any concerns and questions you may have. To enter the meeting, you will need a Meeting Code and password. This will be distributed through our APP. So, if you haven’t signed up for the APP yet, please do that as soon as possible so you will able to join us.

Local APP
The South Jersey area Local has created an App that can be downloaded onto your phone. We are hoping that the development of this App will get our younger members more familiar and more involved with the Union. With this App you will be able to access the latest news from both the South Jersey Area Local and our National APWU. You will be able to contact your Local Stewards and Officers and report contractual violations right from the App. You will be kept informed on upcoming local meetings and events. The APP can be downloaded by scanning the QR Code below.