Late Friday, the court expanded the order to include all NFFE-IAM represented units, protecting union members who had already received RIF notices and prohibiting further layoffs of NFFE members.

With this action, the White House has significantly escalated this shutdown conflict and created a crisis for civil servants and the American people.

This is yet another example of President Trump’s willingness to break the law and use federal employees as political hostages.

Congress must do its job and negotiate a bipartisan funding deal that allows federal agencies and the civil service to carry out their missions and provide the essential services this country depends on.

Congress and the White House need to do their jobs and pass a funding bill.

The White House and congressional Republican leaders have yet to hold bipartisan negotiations on the matter as the end of the month deadline approaches.

The bill is a companion to legislation with the same title in the House of Representatives, where a bipartisan majority of lawmakers have cosigned in favor.

The legislation was drafted in a collaborative effort between NFFE staff, union members, and Rep. Maloy (R-UT).

With over 97% voting in favor at both locations, approximately 600 workers are joining the union.

Secretary Collins notified NFFE and other unions representing VA employees that the Department no longer recognizes the labor organizations representing the vast majority of its workforce.