Federal Employee Protections Weaken as Federal Workers Lose Bargaining Rights
A recent court decision has made it harder for federal employees to protect their jobs and working conditions.
On August 1, 2025, a federal appeals court said that 21 federal agencies can cancel union contracts and take away employee bargaining rights. These rights helped workers speak up about unfair treatment, file complaints, and work with their agencies to solve problems. Now, those protections are at risk—especially for employees working in national security–related jobs like Defense, State, Treasury, and HHS.
This ruling comes at a time when many federal employees are already facing massive layoffs (called RIFs) and sudden changes in leadership. Some agencies have removed top officials, while others are quietly planning job cuts. This has made federal jobs more uncertain than ever.
What Did the Court Say?
The court allowed agencies to cancel collective bargaining agreements, which are like contracts between workers and their employers. These agreements often include:
- Protections against unfair firings
- Ways to challenge poor treatment
- Rules about promotions and job assignments
Now, agencies can remove these protections without negotiating with unions.
Why It Matters
This ruling has real consequences:
- You might not be able to challenge unfair treatment as easily.
- Agencies can change your job, move you, or even fire you—without union help.
- If you’ve been affected by a RIF, your chances to fight back could be more limited.
Even if you’re a good worker, your agency may cut your position or change your role without much notice. And with union protections weakened, you may have fewer tools to protect your rights.
What’s Being Done?
The Law Offices of David P Sheldon, PLLC in Washington, D.C., will speak at a national Federal Employment Law Town Hall on August 19. The event is hosted by the Military Law Practitioners Network (MLPN) and will offer legal insight for federal workers like you. David P Sheldon and Annie Morgan will be panelists at the Virtual Town Hall.
David P. Sheldon
As the founder of a nationally recognized federal and military law firm based in Washington, D.C., Mr. Sheldon has decades of experience representing service members and federal employees in complex legal forums, including MSPB, federal courts, and Boards for Correction of Military Records. He is a trusted advocate in RIF appeals, wrongful discharge, and employment record correction.
Annie Morgan
A Senior Military Attorney at the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, Annie Morgan brings extensive litigation experience on behalf of service members and federal workers. Her work includes advocating before military boards and defending clients facing termination, discharge review, and misconduct allegations.
The Law Offices of David P Sheldon, PLLC has spent decades defending federal employees, veterans, and service members. The firm helps workers:
- Challenge unfair RIFs
- Appeal terminations
- Clear their records
- Fight for reinstatement and back pay
The upcoming panel will explain what your rights are, what the courts are doing, and how you can still protect yourself—even as the law changes.
What You Can Do Now
- Know your rights – Even with union limits, laws like Title 5 and the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) still offer protections.
- Keep good records – Save emails, memos, and anything related to your job, duties, or changes in your position.
- Talk to a lawyer – Especially if you were affected by a RIF or believe you were unfairly targeted.
Join the Free Town Hall Event
Monday, August 19, 2025
2:00 PM EST
Zoom (Virtual Event) Link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2604808511?pwd=R3lyWnFHUjc2eW5vR01RUXBUK2F0UT09&omn=81483855549
Meeting ID: 260 480 8511
Passcode: 1Rehvs
Hosted by the Military Law Practitioners Network (MLPN)
Submit your questions in advance!
About the Law Offices of David P Sheldon, PLLC
The firm is based in Washington, D.C. T fights for service members and federal workers in all forums—MSPB, federal courts, military boards, and more. If your job is on the line, he and his team know how to defend it.
Disclaimer: This opinion is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice specific to your case, speak with an attorney.