Will Trump's Telework Order Spark a Wave of Federal Retirements?

By Nick Iannelli
President Donald Trump’s executive order mandating that all federal employees return to in-person work on a full-time basis could lead to legal challenges from unions and may also drive a retirement surge within the federal workforce.

In his order, Trump stated that "heads of all departments and agencies in the executive branch of government shall, as soon as practicable, take all necessary steps to terminate remote work arrangements."

Nearly 30% of federal employees are union members, many of whom have pre-existing agreements allowing for remote work. Terry Clower, director of the Center for Regional Analysis at George Mason University, emphasized that the president typically lacks the authority to unilaterally change labor contracts.

It's noteworthy that about 30% of the federal workforce is eligible to retire, which may result in employees opting to leave their positions rather than endure daily commutes.

Clower noted, “If you’re having to do that every day, it could be that other jobs look more attractive.” Many employees might have relocated during the pandemic to areas where they could afford homes, further complicating their return to the office.

The executive order contains a clause indicating that department heads may make necessary exemptions. Jason Miller, executive editor for WTOP’s sister station Federal News Network, pointed out this could serve as a significant loophole.

He mentioned that agency heads might continue telework arrangements if their offices lack sufficient space for all employees. He advised workers to “wait and see how your management reacts”, as changes from political directives may take time to reach everyday employees.

This article is part of Maryland Matters’ content sharing agreement with WTOP.