April 24, 2026
Dear NAGE DoD Bargaining Unit Members,
We are writing in response to recent agency communications regarding the implementation of Executive Order 14251 and its impact on union representation across the Department of Defense.
During this challenging time for federal employees, it is critical that we remain informed, engaged, and united. NAGE is here to stay, and we remain fully committed to defending the rights and interests of our members.
What These Notices Mean — and What They Do Not
Some agencies have asserted that collective bargaining agreements are terminated and that unions are no longer recognized as exclusive representatives. These claims do not eliminate your rights as a federal employee.
Employees continue to retain numerous statutory protections, workplace rights, and entitlements. Executive Orders do not erase these protections. NAGE will continue to enforce those rights and advocate on behalf of our members across the DoD.
Your Rights and Protections Continue
Even under current agency positions:
You still have the right to fair and equitable treatment in the workplace
You are entitled to due process in disciplinary and adverse actions
You retain protections under federal employment laws and regulations
You may still seek representation and support from NAGE
NAGE remains actively engaged in addressing these developments, including ongoing legal and administrative actions.
Representation Moving Forward
Under Executive Order 14251, bargaining unit employees must be dues-paying members to receive representation. This makes union membership more important now than ever.
If you need assistance or representation, please submit a request through our dedicated representation request portal: Need Help? Click Here to Request Representation
Our team continues to respond to members’ needs and provide support during this transition. Membership Matters Now More Than Ever.
Most federal employees work hard, save consistently, and plan for the future. In times of uncertainty, strong representation and access to trusted guidance are essential.
We strongly encourage all employees to confirm that their membership is active. If you are not currently a member, now is the time to join.
Please refer to the referenced E-Dues membership enrollment instructions to enroll via Credit Card or My Pay.
Stay Connected and Informed: We encourage all NAGE DoD bargaining unit employees to attend the upcoming webinar:
NAGE DoD Bargaining Unit Webinar
Date: Thursday, April 30
Time: 6:30 PM
Register Here: NAGE DoD Bargaining Unit Webinar Registration Link
This meeting will provide updates on ongoing litigation, answer questions, and explain how NAGE continues to represent and support members. This will be the only session open to non-members. All future meetings will be limited to dues-paying members.
To receive timely updates, newsletters, and information on benefits and programs, sign up for our distribution list: NAGE/SEIU Federal Division Distribution Link
Our Commitment to You
NAGE exists to represent and protect federal employees. That mission has not changed. We will continue to stand with you, provide guidance, and advocate for your rights across the Department of Defense.
We will not abandon our members in their greatest time of need, and we will not back down in the face of attacks on federal workers who deserve better. Your union is strongest when we stand together.
In solidarity,
Lee Blackmon
Director
NAGE Federal Division
There are more than 200 cases concerning government structure and personnel that have been filed in federal court, many by unions, including NAGE. Most of these cases remain pending https://www.justsecurity.org/107087/tracker-litigation-legal-challenges-trump-administration/
RIF Preliminary Injunction NAGE, and several other unions, have filed an action in the Northern District of California challenging the Administration’s actions in conducting RIFs during a government shutdown. NAGE believes the action violates the Anti-Deficiency Act and the Administrative Procedure Act. The Judge has granted a Preliminary Injunction enjoining the government from conducting Shutdown RIFs in programs or activities where the unions have members and current and former bargaining units (former because we are still challenging 14251).
Currently determining how the end of the shutdown and related legislation impact the case.
If you are aware of RIFs that were issued during the shutdown, but not rescinded, please contact our office.
EO14251: NAGE is actively involved in litigation in the Northern District of California to challenge the unlawful actions of the Administration regarding Executive Order 14251 Exclusions from Federal Labor-Management Relations Programs
The lower case remains on hold while the Ninth Circuit considers pending appeals.
Some agencies have fully implemented Executive Order 14251, refusing to participate any further in collective bargaining, process grievances, or participate in arbitrations, and unilaterally cancelling existing collective bargaining agreements.
Merit Staffing: NAGE along with, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), filed a lawsuit challenging the inclusion of a “loyalty question” seeking fealty to the Trump-Vance administration on federal civil service job applications, noting that more than 1,700 job posts have included the essay question since October 1. Today, 11/19/2025, we filed a motion for a preliminary injunction in this case.
This ensures you will continue receiving critical updates affecting federal employees and, if applicable, information about class action suits NAGE/SEIU may file during the shutdown
Staying informed is staying protected. Scan the QR code or click the link below
to sign up for the Federal Division Distribution list, which guarantees that you receive important updates and information relevant to class action suits and other challenges that may be filed on your behalf.
Every member can participate to the local Union Meetings virtually by connecting with the Zoom Meeting app.
If you would like to participate virtually, please send us an email at
We will register your email address and send you the link to participate to our meetings