Last year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) nullified a legally negotiated union contract affecting around 8,000 civil servants. This contract, which took years to establish, was undone swiftly with claims that its safeguards threatened national security. As a result, EPA employees lost union support in disciplinary matters and the ability to contest unfair practices. Key protections for whistleblowers raising concerns over scientific misconduct or political interference were also eliminated, stripping many workers of their rights.
In response, the American Federation of Government Employees Council 238 filed a lawsuit against the EPA and Administrator Lee Zeldin to reinstate the contract and affirm the rights earned through diligent efforts. This case transcends a typical labor dispute, impacting public health, the rule of law, and the true meaning of public service in America. Federal employees serve the nation and its people, not any political framework or figure.
The American Federation of Government Employees emerged in 1932 during an unstable period for civil servants. Through continued advocacy, President Kennedy recognized federal employees’ right to collective bargaining in 1962. This led to the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute affirming that collective bargaining protects public interest. Federal unions enable public servants to operate independently despite political pressures, allowing them to prioritize the American public’s welfare.
The EPA’s work is crucial amid ongoing challenges like climate change and pollution. Unfortunately, these issues have become politicized, with influential parties pushing self-serving policies. Our members, including scientists, engineers, and environmental experts, directly safeguard communities. When faced with issues such as pollution affecting children’s health or compromised drinking water, EPA workers must act based on science and their duty to protect the public.
Our union contract was designed to empower employees to follow evidence and voice concerns without fearing career repercussions. Terminating this contract undermines these safeguards. Previously, in June 2025, many EPA employees expressed dissent concerning political interference in scientific decisions affecting public health. Initially, those employees were not disciplined, but once the contract was terminated, disciplinary actions followed. A total of 139 employees faced penalties, with 20 terminated and 119 suspended without pay, most of which were under the contract’s protection.
This action compromised First Amendment rights, punishing employees for protected speech. The message was clear: opposing political interference could jeopardize careers. However, EPA workers remain undeterred, committed to their mission to protect health and the environment.
Across the federal government, similar challenges are occurring. Departments such as Veterans Affairs, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Food and Drug Administration, Bureau of Prisons, and Department of Defense have also seen collective bargaining targeted. Beyond the EPA, we are contending with a broader attempt to undermine a federal workforce dedicated to public service. Public servants must speak truthfully without fearing job loss.
This battle is not solely about our contract; it is about ensuring a government that serves its people. As administrative dynamics shift, our commitment remains steadfast. We fight to keep the integrity of our service intact.
Justin Chen is the president of the American Federation of Government Employees Council 238.