Ernst alleges unions are fast-tracking contracts with telework provisions

Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) demanded that the heads of 24 federal agencies immediately cease negotiations with employees regarding telework.

Ernst and the incoming Department of Government Efficiency have scrutinized remote work for federal employees, arguing that it hurts productivity and wastes taxpayer money. Anticipating a crackdown, federal employee unions are rushing to negotiate telework agreements through 2029, barring DOGE from interfering with it. Ernst, who is leading the Senate DOGE caucus, moved on Friday to cut off the negotiations.