What is the maximum official time a supervisor may grant for a union representative to attend Step 1?

• A. 1 hour
• B. 2 hours
• C. 3 hours
• D. 4 hours

Answer: (B)

Official time for a union representative to attend a Step 1 meeting is limited to two hours. This cap helps balance the employee’s right to representation with the supervisor’s need to keep operations running smoothly. The union representative can use that time to explain the employee’s rights, outline the grievance process, and participate in the discussion with management. If more time is truly needed, it should be requested and approved through the proper channels, often by extending the time or by the terms of the collective bargaining agreement. One hour is usually too short to adequately cover the session, while three or four hours exceed the standard limit and would be unusual without special approval.