Lawmakers Express Concern Over Reopening Plans for Federal Employees

Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Mark Warner (D-VA) have issued a letter to the acting directors of the Office of Personnel Management and Office of Management and Budget expressing opposition to plans to require many federal employees in the national capital region to return to their offices.

The lawmakers expressed concern that the current reopening guidelines may exacerbate the spread of COVID-19.

As the senators explained in their letter, “premature reopenings are leading to new waves of COVID-19 cases. It is especially important for federal agencies to have clear guidance that sets a positive example.”

A framework for reopening federal agencies was released by OPM and OMB, although the guidance primarily encouraged following state and local health guidelines.  The Senators noted that “governments in Maryland, Virginia, and the District continue to utilize liberal telework policies and limited office capacity for public sector workers.”

The letter cited a lack of available childcare, potential crowding on public transportation, and likely increased community spread as reasons to hold off on reopening too quickly.

A majority of federal employees- some 85% of teleworkers and 52% of non-teleworkers- felt uncomfortable returning to work and interacting with their colleagues, according to a Federal News Network survey.

The lawmakers asserted in their letter that “federal employees and contractors have been teleworking successfully throughout the COVID-19 public health emergency” and urged OPM and OMB to “issue clearer guidance directing agencies to continue maximizing telework throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.”