Recent executive orders have created uncertainty for federal employees, affecting return-to-office (RTO) mandates, hiring freezes, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) roles. In a recent Business Insider article, Debra D’Agostino, a founding partner of Federal Practice Group, shared key insights on what these changes mean for federal workers and how they can respond.
Federal Employees and Executive Orders: Key Takeaways
1. Return-to-Office (RTO) Mandates
Federal agencies are now enforcing RTO policies, requiring many remote and teleworking employees to return to physical office spaces. While exemptions exist for individuals with reasonable accommodations or compelling reasons (such as military spouses), the full impact of these mandates is still unfolding.
2. Changes to DEIA Positions
Many federal employees working in DEIA roles have been placed on paid administrative leave, with some receiving reduction-in-force (RIF) notices, signaling potential layoffs. Since many DEIA professionals also handle essential functions like reasonable accommodation coordination, some may be reassigned rather than terminated. However, the legal complexities surrounding these reassignments remain unclear.
3. A Federal Hiring Freeze
Executive orders have also resulted in a hiring freeze, invalidating job offers signed after January 20, 2025. Some employees who believed they had secured federal positions months ago now face rescinded offers, highlighting the risks of transitioning jobs in the current environment.
4. Comply Now, Complain Later
Debra D’Agostino emphasized that federal employees should follow the “comply now, complain later” approach. Unless an order directly endangers safety, refusal to comply with reassignment or policy changes can lead to termination, making it more challenging to seek legal remedies later. Instead, employees should comply while pursuing grievances through formal channels like the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB), Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaints, or internal agency appeals.
What Federal Employees Can Do Next
If you are a federal worker affected by these executive orders, it is crucial to understand your rights and the available legal avenues for challenging unfair policies. Federal Practice Group has decades of experience representing federal employees in cases involving wrongful terminations, policy changes, and workplace disputes.
Take Action Today
- Know Your Rights – Learn how executive orders impact federal employees and what legal protections apply to you.
- Get Legal Guidance – Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate employment challenges and protect your career.
- Schedule a Consultation – Ready to take the next step? Fill out our client intake form to get started.
Read More
Read the full Business Insider article featuring Debra D’Agostino. (Note: This article may require a subscription to view.)