
JB joins to discuss the complex issue of “Deems Desirable,” a policy allowing supervisors to request medical documentation for absences of three days or less. Leath emphasizes the importance of stewards understanding contractual provisions and building strong cases by gathering evidence like employee attendance records and ERMS reports. He criticizes the arbitrary use of “Deems Desirable” as a blanket policy, advocating for case-by-case application and prior notification of attendance concerns. Drawing upon his own arbitration experience, Leath highlights a successful case where management failed to demonstrate reasonable justification for placing an employee on “Deems Desirable” without prior notice or documented attendance issues. He encourages stewards to familiarize themselves with relevant USPS manuals and proactively gather information to support their arguments when challenging this policy.