Telework Win! Some SSA Employees Secure Remote Work Until 2029

• In a bold move, the Social Security Administration has solidified its telework arrangements through 2029! Just last week, the agency struck a deal with the American Federation of Government Employees, ensuring that thousands of eligible federal workers can continue their hybrid work schedules. This exciting development comes against a backdrop of hints from the Department of Government Efficiency, which may push for a full-time return to the office as the Trump administration takes shape. Will this new agreement stand the test of time? Only time will tell!
• In a significant leadership shift, President Joe Biden has appointed Air Force Maj. Gen. Luke Cropsey to head the newly established Air Force Information Dominance Systems Center. This initiative, announced by Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, is part of a major overhaul of the service’s structure. The center will bring together four existing program executive offices, focusing on developing and acquiring cutting-edge battle management systems, cyber technologies, and information systems. If confirmed, Cropsey will rise to the rank of lieutenant general. Talk about a power move!
• Great news for those enrolled in the new Postal Service Health Benefits program! Open Season has been extended until December 13. This extension comes after feedback from participants who faced challenges accessing their healthcare options. While most enrollees in the Federal Employees Health Benefits program are still operating on the original December 9 deadline, this added time is a lifeline for many. Although some reported difficulties logging into the PSHB platform and long wait times for customer service, OPM assures users that the system is functioning well overall. Relief is on the way!
• The Postal Service is setting the stage for some controversial changes. USPS aims for an 87% on-time delivery rate for two-day first-class mail and 80% for two-to-five-day first-class mail this fiscal year. However, this comes after falling short of last year’s targets. As part of their cost-cutting strategy, they plan to eliminate some end-of-day collection trips from remote post offices—a move that’s drawing criticism from lawmakers. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy insists that these measures are essential for offsetting the decline in mail volume. “I need to get cost out. I don’t believe this is a punitive way,” he stated. How will this impact your local mail service?
• A call to action is ringing out from the House Oversight and Reform Committee! The top Democrat, Jamie Raskin, is urging agency watchdogs to raise their voices if they feel pressured to leave their positions during the Trump administration. This follows the resignations of inspectors general for the CIA and the intelligence community. Inspectors general don’t have term limits, but any president has the power to fire them. With Trump’s track record of replacing several IGs during his first term, the stakes are higher than ever for these crucial oversight roles.
• In an exciting announcement, President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Daniel Driscoll as the next secretary of the Army. An Army veteran and former senior advisor to Vice President-elect JD Vance, Driscoll is poised to step into this critical role. Hailing from North Carolina, he has transitioned into investment after law school and even ran for Congress in 2020. If confirmed, he will succeed Christine Wormuth as Army Secretary. Driscoll’s appointment marks the third significant Pentagon selection, following Trump’s picks of Pete Hegseth as defense secretary and businessman John Phelan as Navy secretary. Change is certainly in the air!

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