Trump's Executive Orders Threaten Public Service Workers' Rights

The inauguration of President Donald Trump marked the beginning of significant changes for public service workers, as he quickly enacted a set of executive orders criticized for favoring wealthy interests and undermining workers' rights. These orders have raised concerns among unions and public service advocates.

Lee Saunders, President of AFSCME, expressed his disapproval of these measures. In a statement, Saunders emphasized the need for fair treatment of workers. “Donald Trump began his presidency by signing executive orders that undermine public service workers’ voice on the job and the very principles of civil service which have been established for more than a century to keep politics out of public service,” he stated. Saunders criticized the transfer of job security decisions to "billionaires and anti-union extremists" as unacceptable.

Impact on the Civil Service

A revived executive order from 2020, known as “Schedule F,” aims to simplify the process of terminating federal employees. This order introduces a new category for "policy/career" federal employees, removing their civil service protections. If enacted, this could allow for a significant increase in political appointees within the federal workforce, a situation AFSCME has historically opposed (source).

Public Services Under Threat

The newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is set to evaluate federal agencies with a focus on cost-cutting. These teams, potentially lacking proper oversight and expertise, are tasked with proposing workforce reductions within 90 days, potentially jeopardizing essential public services.

The administration's plan to cut up to $2 trillion from the federal budget may involve reductions in Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, crucial programs for many Americans, including AFSCME members.

Prescription Drug Costs

Trump's administration has undone previous efforts to reduce prescription drug prices, likely leading to increased costs for families and retirees while benefiting pharmaceutical companies. Additionally, legislation introduced by Rep. Andrew Ogles (R-Tenn.) aims to repeal key provisions of the 2022 law, which included essential cost-saving measures for Medicare.

Expansion of Private Prisons

The reversal of a ban on private prison contracts represents a boon to the corporations running these facilities, despite evidence suggesting they are more dangerous than publicly managed prisons staffed by dedicated public service workers.

Amidst these changes, the need for organized action is emphasized. Engagement in union activities, such as attending meetings and encouraging co-workers to join, is seen as vital in defending workers' rights and ensuring public service workers can thrive rather than merely survive.