1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

I am writing as a constituent to express my concern about the recent executive order mandating an end to remote work for federal employees including civilian service roles within the Department of Defense. While returning to in-person work may be appropriate in some cases, a one-size-fits-all mandate undermines national security, wastes taxpayer dollars, and weakens America’s ability to compete in critical fields like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and defense technology. I urge you to support legislation or oversight measures that allow agencies to make data-driven decisions about telework. Remote Work Saves Taxpayer Money & Improves Efficiency A 2023 GAO report found that federal agencies saved an estimated $1 billion per year in office costs due to telework policies. Returning to unused buildings is fiscally irresponsible. Multiple studies, including a 2022 OPM analysis, show that remote workers in knowledge-based fields, including software development and national security roles, are just as productive—if not more so—than in-office employees. Ending Telework Hurts National Security & Recruitment The Air Force and other defense agencies rely on civilian talent to develop mission-critical software for advanced weapons systems, AI, and cybersecurity. Over 50% of job seekers in IT and engineering fields prefer remote or hybrid work, according to a 2023 LinkedIn report. Private-sector competitors, including Lockheed Martin and Boeing, allow remote flexibility, making it harder for the federal government to compete for top talent. Many national security employees were hired remotely and live in different states. Forcing them to relocate or resign would disrupt key defense projects. Congress Must Take Action I urge you to: 1. Support legislation allowing agencies to maintain remote work for critical roles in defense, cybersecurity, and engineering. 2. Demand agency-level discretion in workforce decisions instead of a blanket mandate. 3. Hold hearings to examine the national security and fiscal impacts of ending remote work. Please stand up for fiscal responsibility, military readiness, and efficient government operations by supporting policies that preserve remote work agreements where it makes sense. I appreciate your time and consideration.