AFSCME President condemns threat to withhold federal workers' back pay

In recent developments surrounding the U.S. government shutdown, allegations have arisen that the Trump administration is considering withholding back pay from furloughed federal employees. This move, as per reports, contradicts both federal law and guidance from the administration's own Office of Personnel Management (OPM). The controversy has drawn sharp criticism from labor leaders.

AFSCME President Lee Saunders voiced his concerns in a public statement, highlighting the potential impact on federal workers. "This administration is again threatening to use federal workers as political pawns by robbing them of the wages they are owed by law," Saunders stated. He emphasized that while economic pressures such as healthcare and childcare costs are escalating, federal employees should not be subjected to further financial strain.

The legal framework is explicit: furloughed workers are entitled to be compensated for missed paychecks following a government shutdown. The ongoing debate underscores a broader discontent among workers, who argue they are being unfairly targeted amid political maneuvering. Saunders called on both the administration and Congress to address the root issues, including the healthcare crisis and funding for public services, to ensure that essential services resume without jeopardizing worker welfare.

For more information on the administration's guidance, refer to the document here.