Houston, Texas – Federal employees facing workplace challenges due to disabilities now have a powerful new resource. A compelling new podcast episode features Doug Massey, President of AFGE Local 17 at the Department of Veterans Affairs, in conversation with Pines Federal Employment Attorneys’ Eric Pines, a nationally recognized federal employment attorney and union counsel. Together, they offer critical insights into the complex and often misunderstood world of disability rights and benefits in federal employment.

This episode is a must-watch for federal employees who feel unsupported, misinformed, or overwhelmed when navigating disability-related employment issues. Pines and Massey take a deep dive into key topics such as reasonable accommodations, the disability retirement process, and the legal rights of disabled federal workers. With years of experience advocating for public servants, Eric Pines breaks down essential information in clear, actionable terms.

Key talking points from the interview include:

• What qualifies as a disability under federal law: The conversation starts with a clear definition of what constitutes a qualifying disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and relevant federal guidelines.
• How reasonable accommodations work — and what to do if they fail: Pines explains how to request accommodations, what agencies are legally obligated to provide, and how employees can respond if those accommodations are denied or ineffective.
• Understanding the disability retirement application process: The episode outlines eligibility criteria for OPM disability retirement, step-by-step guidance on filing, and the documentation needed for approval.
• Differentiating disability retirement, Social Security Disability, and workers’ compensation: Pines clarifies the differences between these benefit systems and when each may apply, offering crucial advice on how to pursue multiple options if eligible.
• How long the process takes and what to expect: Viewers gain realistic timelines and insights into common roadblocks, and how legal support can help overcome them.
• Financial benefits of disability retirement: The discussion covers vital financial information, including ongoing health insurance, pension eligibility, and potential Social Security offsets.
• Job offers at lower grades — and what to consider: The hosts offer a strategic look at how to evaluate offers for lower-level positions and how these offers can affect disability retirement claims.
• The value of legal support: Pines emphasizes the importance of working with an experienced attorney, especially when navigating appeals, documentation, or agency pushback. His firm provides personalized guidance to ensure employees receive the benefits they’ve earned.

“Disability retirement is one of the most valuable but underutilized tools available to federal employees,” says Eric Pines. “Too many workers don’t realize there are options to secure both their health and financial future.”

This episode isn’t just an informative discussion, it’s a call to action. Federal employees who are struggling don’t have to do it alone. With legal insight and union support, they can reclaim their rights and protect their future.

Watch the full episode now and empower yourself with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about your career and health.