On March 28, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order exempting federal agencies involved in national security from the collective bargaining requirements outlined in the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978. The affected agencies include the Department of Defense, Homeland Security, and others involved in energy, public safety, and pandemic response. The President’s decision is based on the belief that collective bargaining can hinder timely policy changes, particularly in critical national security areas.

The Executive Order seeks to ensure that these agencies can function effectively without delays caused by union negotiations. It raises concerns that prior collective bargaining agreements may impede the implementation of essential policies, especially in situations requiring rapid responses, such as health emergencies or cybersecurity threats. The President has expressed a commitment to maintaining partnerships with unions that cooperate, while opposing those that obstruct operational efficiency.

This action reflects the administration’s view on the significance of national security and the necessity for a responsive civil service. The President has acknowledged ongoing grievances from unions that oppose his policies, which he perceives as a challenge to the effectiveness of national security agencies. By exempting these agencies from collective bargaining, the administration aims to prioritize the protection of American interests and ensure that they can fulfill their missions without delays related to union negotiations.

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