The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) moved Friday to derecognize labor union representation for staffers at multiple subagencies and offices, claiming the action is “removing unnecessary obstacles to mission-critical work.”
The HHS is derecognizing representation within several offices represented by the National Treasury Employees Union; American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE); National Alliance of Postal and Federal Employees; and the United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America.
“This action ensures that HHS resources and personnel are fully focused on safeguarding the health and security of the American people,” HHS spokesperson Andrew Nixon said in a statement.
“By implementing President Trump’s Executive Order 14251, HHS is removing unnecessary obstacles to mission-critical work and space previously used for union activities. This change strengthens our ability to respond rapidly to public health threats, advance national security, and deliver results for the American taxpayer,” he added.
Impacted offices within the HHS include the Office of the Secretary, Office of the General Counsel, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Office of Refugee Resettlement, and the Administration for Children and Families.
The move comes just days after the HHS finalized the termination of 600 CDC employees as part of President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency executive order signed in March.
The AFGE blasted the announcement, noting that the HHS made the decision known to media and not the affected unions.
“This administration’s illegal and immoral assault on federal workers and their labor unions is punishing hundreds of thousands of dedicated public servants who serve our veterans, ensure the safety of the food we eat and the air we breathe, and now those who protect our public health,” AFGE National President Everett Kelley said in a statement.
“Tearing up our contracts is a disservice to every American who benefits from the programs and services our members deliver. But let me be clear: our union isn’t going anywhere,” Kelley added.