Priorities for Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer

We congratulate Lori Chavez-DeRemer on her confirmation as Labor Secretary. This administration has a unique opportunity to reshape federal labor practices, and I urge Secretary Chavez-DeRemer to champion three critical reforms to ensure efficiency, accountability, and worker freedom in the federal workforce.

First, we must address the misuse of union “official time.” This practice allows union representatives to conduct union business on the clock, funded by taxpayers, often at the expense of productivity and fairness. I call on Secretary Chavez-DeRemer to support an Executive Order to End Union Official Time in Federal Agencies. This order would limit official time to only what is strictly necessary, mandate transparent tracking, and require agencies to justify its use. Federal employees should focus on serving the public during work hours-not union agendas.

Second, transparency and freedom in union membership are non-negotiable. Too many federal workers face confusion or coercion when deciding whether to join or leave a union. Secretary Chavez-DeRemer should back an Executive Order on Transparency in Union Membership for Federal Workers. This would require agencies to provide clear, accessible information about membership rights and establish intimidation-free processes for joining or exiting unions. Additionally, the Office of Personnel Management should revise the SF-1187 form to simplify and clarify these choices. Workers deserve to make informed decisions without pressure.

Finally, we must shift the paradigm on union dues for political activities. The current “opt-out” system forces employees to actively object to their dues funding political causes they may not support-an unfair burden. I urge Secretary Chavez-DeRemer to advocate for an Executive Order on Consent-Based Use of Union Dues for Political Activities. This would require unions to obtain explicit, written consent from members before using dues for political purposes. An “opt-in” approach respects individual beliefs, ensuring only willing contributors fund political campaigns.

These reforms align with President Trump’s bold vision, exemplified by the reinstatement of Schedule F, to enhance accountability and performance in the federal workforce. They are not just about efficiency-they are about empowering federal employees to thrive while delivering exceptional service to Americans. Secretary Chavez-DeRemer has a chance to lead with principle, prioritizing worker autonomy over union influence. The time to act is now. On behalf of Americans for Fair Treatment, I stand ready to support her in unleashing the full potential of our federal workforce.

Chip Rogers
CEO, Americans for Fair Treatment