The clock is ticking for federal agencies to comply with the White House’s order to end telework and remote work within 30 days. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has laid down the law, instructing agencies to revise policies and bring employees back to their duty stations full-time—no more cozy home offices or flexible schedules. While exceptions exist for employees with disabilities and military spouses, the mandate has left many scratching their heads over its vague wording and broad scope. The State Department isn’t wasting any time, already moving to cancel telework agreements by March 1 and bringing remote workers back by July 1. As federal employees brace for major workplace changes, one thing is clear—remote work’s days in government could be numbered.
Layoffs: Federal DEIA
The White House ordered agencies to immediately halt DEIA-related programs. In a directive from OPM Acting Director Charles Ezell, agencies must place affected workers on administrative leave and erase all traces of DEIA efforts by the end of the day. The memo follows an executive order from President Trump, who argues that DEIA programs undermine merit-based hiring and waste taxpayer dollars. Federal agencies have been given tight deadlines to comply, with a reduction-in-force (RIF) plan due by January 31. While legal experts say affected employees have appeal rights, the Merit Systems Protection Board could face an overwhelming backlog.
Hiring: SPA
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is actively hiring for over 280 positions across the country. With over three decades of work in defense and homeland security, SPA is seeking strategic thinkers, subject matter experts, and problem solvers who thrive on tackling complex challenges. From Virginia to California, and even remote and hybrid options, SPA offers opportunities for professionals with Secret, Top Secret, and SCI clearances. Beyond the mission, SPA provides a robust benefits package including healthcare, retirement plans, telework options, and even perks like childcare and an on-site coffee bar. Whether you’re an experienced professional or looking to break into the defense sector, now is the time to explore career opportunities with SPA and make an impact on national security.
Cleared Employer at Work: Booz Allen
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Opportunity to Watch
Big changes are on the horizon for defense contractors and lobbying firms, thanks to a new federal law tucked inside the massive National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. Signed in one of former President Biden’s final acts in office, the legislation introduces strict prohibitions on defense contracts for companies that employ lobbyists representing Chinese military firms. The new rules, set to take effect on June 30, 2026, require contractors to scrutinize their lobbying relationships and ensure compliance to avoid disqualification. While the law includes a safe harbor provision and grants the Secretary of Defense broad waiver authority, experts warn that a drafting error in the legislation could lead to confusion. As the countdown to implementation begins, defense contractors and their lobbyists must take a hard look at their operations—or risk losing lucrative government deals.
