Trump Signs EO Ending Union Rights At Federal Agencies With ‘National Security Missions’

Former President Donald Trump issued an executive order rescinding collective bargaining rights for federal employees in agencies linked to national security. The order argues that union involvement can hinder the efficiency, responsiveness, and preparedness of essential government functions.

Agencies Impacted

This directive applies to multiple federal agencies crucial to homeland security, public safety, and strategic operations. Citing authority from the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, the administration justified the move as necessary for national security. Affected agencies include:

• Department of Defense
• Department of Veterans Affairs
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
• Department of State
• U.S. Coast Guard
• Department of Energy and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• Department of the Treasury
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

Additional entities involved in international security, emergency response, and public health are also included.

White House Rationale

A senior administration memo emphasized that national security agencies must operate without bureaucratic delays. The memo highlighted cases where union negotiations have slowed policy implementation and personnel decisions.

“The President requires a government that is agile and responsive, not hindered by union roadblocks,” the statement read. “Employees in these critical agencies must be held to the highest standards of accountability and performance.”

Focus on Efficiency, Not Union Elimination

The White House clarified that this action is not a wholesale dismantling of federal unions but a necessary step to prevent interference in agencies tied to national security. Officials expressed willingness to work with unions that engage constructively rather than obstruct operations.

Union Backlash

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the largest federal employee union, condemned the decision, calling it “an attack on democracy, veterans, and civil servants.” The union argued that many affected employees are veterans and accused the administration of attempting to suppress dissent.

Union leaders also warned of potential legal challenges and pledged to oppose the order.

Implementation in Progress

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has already directed agencies to review union contracts and begin executing the new policy.

Reshaping Federal Labor Policies

This executive order represents one of the most significant shifts in federal labor regulations in recent decades. For national security and emergency response agencies, the administration has signaled a priority: operational readiness over union negotiations. The influence of federal unions on frontline security agencies may be significantly reduced moving forward.