Gunster is proud to announce that shareholder Joseph G. Santoro has been appointed by the President of the United States to serve as a Member of the Federal Service Impasses Panel (FSIP), a component of the Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA). The appointment was announced on July 9, 2026.
Santoro, of Florida, will serve the remainder of a term expiring January 10, 2029, succeeding Mark Gaston Pearce on the Panel. He joins a newly appointed slate of Panel members from across the nation chaired by Mark Carter (West Virginia). Others appointed in this round were, Thomas Beck (Tennessee), Molly Conway (District of Columbia), Michael Greason (New York), David Mansdoerfer (Texas), Frank Ricci (Connecticut), Frank Vernuccio (Virginia).
The FSIP assists in resolving collective bargaining impasses between federal agencies and the unions representing federal employees when negotiations and mediation efforts are unsuccessful. The Panel helps ensure disputes are resolved through an orderly process that supports effective labor-management relations across the federal workforce.
This appointment reflects Joe's deep experience in labor and employment law. Gunster congratulates him on this distinguished honor and looks forward to the insight and dedication he will bring to this important role.
Joseph G. Santoro's practice focuses extensively on defending business clients and executives in employment-related disputes. His litigation experience spans executive contract disputes, non-compete litigation, discrimination and harassment cases, wage and hour litigation, whistleblower claims, wrongful termination cases, employee leave claims, and employee theft and trade secret litigation.
