Remote Federal Workers Face Job Threats Amid Reassignment Ultimatum

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has issued a stark ultimatum to remote employees situated more than 50 miles from federal office locations. Effective immediately, employees have until March 7 to either return to the office, accept a management-directed reassignment, or face termination proceedings.

In a memo shared with Federal News Network, OPM outlined these options as a part of their ongoing efforts to bring staff back to physical office spaces, with an expectation to work on-site full-time by March 3. This decision follows an extensive remote-work arrangement adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, with approximately 40% of OPM’s workforce currently operating remotely.

“Employees accepting relocation will have a reasonable amount of time to relocate and report to in-person work at an OPM facility,” one of the slides stated. However, those who decline the offered reassignment must understand that opting out will trigger termination procedures.

“If you decide not to accept this directed reassignment to a new geographic location, your options for continued employment may be limited, and the agency may pursue adverse actions against you,” the memo added. OPM is simultaneously working on a reduction in force and planning to finalize all layoffs before relocating employees.

Employees are able to file exemption requests for the return-to-office policy with their supervisors by the March 7 deadline. Exemptions could be granted for medical conditions, disabilities, or compelling personal circumstances. The agency has also identified nine possible duty stations across multiple states, including Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania, Georgia, Texas, and Virginia.

OPM Acting Director Charles Ezell emphasized that all teleworking and remote workers are now expected to report back to work on-site unless exempted for valid reasons.

Statements made during the presentation revealed concerns about the significant impact this policy could have. A source within OPM noted, “We have a much higher remote worker population because of the need for unique skill sets,” indicating that the labor market’s demands could conflict with the agency’s directive.

Additionally, the Department of Veterans Affairs has announced similar policies, rescinding telework agreements for most employees while calling on supervisors to assess office space availability.

As federal workers navigate this shifting landscape, reactions including skepticism and concern are prevalent among employees who have enjoyed remote work. Union representatives have indicated they will challenge any unfavorable terminations that may arise from the current policies.