Van Hollen, Senators Call on OPM to Guarantee Protections for Federal Workers and Contractors Complying with Coronavirus Response

Statement

Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) joined Senator Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and six Senators in urging the United States Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to commit that federal workers and contractors will not be penalized for following recommended health procedures to prevent further spread of the coronavirus.

In a letter sent to OPM Director Dale Cabaniss, the Senators wrote, "As the largest employer in the nation, it is paramount that the federal government lead by example and prioritize the health, economic well-being, and security of its employees and contractors as we mobilize to respond to the recent outbreak and spread of COVID-19. In addition to sharing recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about when employees exhibiting systems should stay home, we urge you to clarify that federal employees and contractors who follow such guidance will not be at risk of income insecurity, disciplinary action, or any other adverse employment actions."

The Senators continued, "We worry that OPM's guidance to date does not demonstrate to our nation's hardworking public servants that the federal government is prioritizing their health, well-being, and economic security. We urge you to swiftly develop and circulate guidance that does more to reassure them that they will not be penalized for heeding public health guidance, they will continue to receive pay while doing so, and they will not be expected to work while sick."

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