The Trump administration made a bold move on Monday by declaring union contract language allowing government employees to telework as invalid. This action escalates its control over the federal workforce.
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) released a guidance document stating that telework availability and eligibility fall under management rights, outside of collective bargaining agreements.
Conflict with Labor Unions
The memo is expected to trigger more disagreements between the White House and labor unions representing government employees. Some unions had worked to secure protections for telework provisions in agreements, which the administration opposes.
President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans have criticized these terms, viewing them as hindrances to government operations that could be exploited.
Return-to-Office Directive
In response to the guidance, agencies are instructed to review their telework contracts for unenforceable provisions. The Trump administration aims to bring federal workers back to offices, aligning with the president's directive issued on Inauguration Day.
Recently, the administration offered federal workers the option of 'deferred resignation' to avoid the return-to-office mandate until Sept. 30. An early retirement incentive was also extended to certain employees.
Labor Union Opposition
Labor unions and Democratic officials have advised workers against accepting the administration's offers, citing concerns about follow-through and legal authority.
Last week, Trump warned of terminations for non-compliant employees, suggesting a downsizing of the government workforce for efficiency.
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