Tag: wrongful termination

VA to Terminate Collective Bargaining Agreements

Posted on by Becky Haugen

Veteran Affairs Cancels Contracts for Collective Bargaining

 

A federal appeals court on August 1, 2025 allowed 21 agencies—including Justice, State, Defense, Treasury, and Health & Human Services to end collective bargaining agreements. They ruled delaying the executive order would have hurt operations, and they saw no explicit anti-union intent. Now, VA has just taken this even further: on August 6, it formally terminated collective bargaining agreements for most VA bargaining-unit employees—except police, firefighters, and other security staff—as permitted under the same executive order. The VA argued this will let staff spend more time serving veterans and help managers promote strong performers and address poor performance—using funds and time formerly devoted to union activities instead

What the Court and VA Action Mean

  • Federal agencies now have the legal green light to cancel union contracts and set working conditions without union negotiation.
  • VA’s move means most union protections are gone, putting federal workers in more vulnerable positions.
  • This comes amid broader RIFs and staffing changes—many employees may face reassignments or termination with fewer channels to challenge decisions.

Why This Matters to You

If you’re a federal or VA employee:

  • You may no longer have union protections for grievance processes, job security, or discipline.
  • These changes happen at a time when many agencies are already cutting jobs or restructuring under secretive RIF processes.
  • It’s now even more critical to know your rights, keep detailed records, and seek legal help when your work status changes—especially for those affected by RIFs or disciplinary actions.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC:
The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, based in Washington, D.C., is dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation to military service members and federal employees facing legal challenges. Specializing in military justice, veterans’ rights, and federal employment law, we are committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of our clients. For more information, please visit our website at www.militarydefense.com.

Event Reminder

 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and does not form an attorney-client relationship. Please consult an attorney for personalized legal advice.

 

Sources Cited

  • Appeals Court lifts injunction on ending federal bargaining rights Reuters
  • VA terminates collective bargaining contracts for most bargaining-unit employees VA Press

Federal Employee Protections Weaken as Federal Workers Lose Bargaining Rights

Posted on by Becky Haugen

Courts Allow for Cancelling Collective Bargaining

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.