Retroactive OSS Payments for Government Lawyers

This is an update on the implementation of the May 29, 2025 arbitral award issued by Arbitrator James Dorsey regarding retroactive OSS (Overtime, Shift, and Standby) entitlements for government lawyers.

PEA members who held regular full-time status during any portion of the transition period (July 14, 2023, to November 13, 2024) are entitled to pro-rated OSS credits, regardless of their employment status on November 13, 2024. OSS is a premium paid in lieu of overtime, earned on hours worked. The arbitrator’s decision affirms the Union’s position that members should be made whole for compensation they would have earned had the collective agreement applied throughout the transition period.

We have received confirmation from the Employer that members who elected to receive OSS in cash and whose entitlement did not require changes, edits, or recalculations will receive payment by the end of June 2025.

Former members who left the BC Public Service during the transition period are entitled to pro-rated OSS credits, with payment expected by the end of August 2025, as outlined in the Transition Agreement.

Members whose OSS eligibility or entitlement requires further review, or recalculation should anticipate payment by December 31, 2025, in accordance with the May 29, 2025 award. In cases where a member received an OSS overpayment, reasonable repayment plans will be put in place.

Members with questions about their individual entitlements are encouraged to contact the Employer’s MyHR for more detailed information.