Federal employees are facing heightened anxiety as they navigate a government shutdown while contemplating taking time off. This situation is particularly challenging for essential workers who continue to report to their jobs without pay, thus compounding their stress levels.
Impact of the Shutdown on Federal Workers
The shutdown began on October 1, following Congress’s failure to agree on a federal spending package. Employees across various agencies are now apprehensive about taking leave, fearing repercussions on their employment status.
Concerns Over Taking Leave
- Many federal employees are reluctant to request sick leave, as it could lead to disciplinary actions.
- Reports indicate that supervisors warn against taking time off, with some leave requests explicitly denied during the shutdown.
One Social Security employee opted to postpone her surgery rather than risk receiving a furlough notice during this period, which would have been marked as a disciplinary action on her employee record. This unprecedented categorization of furlough days further exacerbates the anxiety felt among federal workers.
Federal Employee Sentiment
There is a pervasive sense of insecurity among federal employees, particularly those at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Employees have reported conflicting instructions regarding their ability to take leave, with some being told that any absence would be considered absent without leave (AWOL).
Mixed Messages from Management
- The IRS employees received inconsistent guidance on whether they could take medical leave or vacation.
- One internal directive suggested that employees could be fired if they missed work during audits.
Despite reassurances from some management that essential staff could take previously approved leave, many workers feel pressure not to take any time off. They are concerned about potential job losses and reduced job security during the ongoing shutdown.
Historical Context and Future Implications
This shutdown has led to about 4,100 federal workers receiving reductions in force notices. A federal judge recently ruled against these actions, declaring them unlawful, yet the future remains uncertain as the administration signals further layoffs.
Max Stier, CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, emphasized the toll of the current environment on federal employees. He noted that marking furloughs as a black mark is unprecedented and unfair.
As the shutdown continues, many federal employees feel they face a difficult choice between their health needs and job security, contributing to an atmosphere of anxiety and uncertainty.
