At its twenty-sixth constitutional convention in Pittsburgh, the AFL-CIO adopted Resolution 27, “In the Interests of the Public, Professionals Belong in Unions,” saluting the work of PftPI and its endorsing organizations. The full text of the resolution is available here.

AFL-CIO Secretary Treasurer Richard Trumka delivered a report to more than 250 delegates at the AFTRA National Convention in Chicago on Aug. 8, 2009, and spoke about the importance of what PftPI stands for and is working to do. Watch the video here. 

Our organizations, members of the Professionals for the Public Interest coalition, are concerned about the role and independence of professionals serving on federal advisory committees. These panels should provide an opportunity for all stakeholders to participate in an environment free from external pressures.

Professionals in an array of fields, including education, science, engineering, the arts, health and healthcare, serve the public in many capacities. Through education, training, specialization, standards, and accountability, frontline professionals and other practitioners bring a wealth of accumulated knowledge and experience. Their skills deliver high performance.

The Federal Advisory Committee Act of 1972 (FACA) was passed to bring expert advice, ideas, and diverse opinions to the federal government. Nearly 1000 committees and other panels are integrated into the operation of the government to provide outside, independent advice and perspective to the agencies and the White House. Each year, 7000 meetings are held, most under FACA, collectively involving 67,000 members.

While serving on federal advisory committees, professionals should not be expected to compromise or ignore professional standards, to put personal or public safety at risk, or to alter, downplay or withhold research data or findings. To ensure and protect the integrity of the process as well as the integrity of the participants, an environment must be maintained where trust and accountability are integral components.

FACA requires advisory committees to be “fairly balanced in terms of the points of view represented and the functions to be performed.” The FACA panels are a primary vehicle to involve professionals in the development of federal programs, policies, regulations, and standards. Their involvement ensures a prudent and more effective use of federal resources.

Show your support for our statement on Professionals and the Federal Advisory System by filling out the form below.

A piece about Professionals for the Public Interest appeared in the July/August issue of “On Campus,” a publication by the American Federation of Teachers for higher education faculty and professional staff. Read the article here.

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) posted a story about Professionals for the Public Interest on June 9th. Read the story here.

Union City, the daily newsletter of the Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO wrote about the launch of Professionals for the Public Interest on Friday, May 22nd. Read more here.