VA Ends Most Union Contracts, Affecting 377,000 Workers

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has terminated collective bargaining contracts with most of its unionized employees, affecting over 377,000 workers in unions such as the American Federation of Government Employees, National Nurses United, and others. The action, prompted by a Trump administration executive order, aims to streamline VA operations by allowing easier discipline of underperformers and rewarding high achievers, according to VA Secretary Doug Collins. VA officials argue that union activities have hindered reforms, while unions criticize the move as retaliatory and harmful to veterans' care. Unions have announced plans to pursue legal action against the decision. Approximately 4,000 VA police officers, firefighters, and security guards are exempt from the contract termination. The VA also ceased withholding union dues from most paychecks in April, escalating the dispute.