Guardian Policy

Among our most cherished rights are the right to speak freely on matters of public concern, and the right to associate with whom we choose. These rights to freedom of speech and freedom of association are protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Although there is no right or entitlement to government employment, public employers cannot fire, refuse to hire or otherwise discriminate against an individual based on the exercise of First Amendment rights. The First Amendment provides an important safeguard against the discrimination of public employees.

First Amendment Issues for Fire and Rescue Personnel

The IAFF Guardian Policy was established to authorize the General President to provide legal assistance (a) to local officers who have been subjected to discipline or discharge in direct retaliation for their union activities, and (b) to locals who seek to change the law through targeted litigation which is expected to have a precedent-setting impact on other IAFF affiliates and members beyond the particular affiliate. Two successful minimum staffing cases, won through the Guardian Policy, are provided below. Contact your IAFF District Vice President for more information.

The Guardian Policy makes available direct legal representation from the IAFF General Counsel to protect union leaders and activists who have been subjected to retaliation for engaging in union-related activities or speaking out on matters of public concern and in cases that could have a significant precedent-setting impact on other IAFF affiliates.