The White House wants to tighten internal control in the federal government with a new proposal that would force public employees to sign confidentiality agreements, known as NDAs. The measure comes after several leaks related to immigration operations and sensitive military actions.

According to information published by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) in the Federal Register, the initiative would apply to both new workers and current federal employees.

Pressure grows due to internal leaks

The OPM argues that recent leaks put the safety of federal agents and members of the Armed Forces at risk. Although the document does not directly mention the case of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the proposal appears amid criticism for revelations related to military operations and immigration issues.

“The federal government should not be held to a lower standard,” OPM Director Scott Kupor said in defending the proposal. According to the official, the agreements seek to reinforce accountability and prevent unauthorized disclosures of sensitive information.

Today, the approximately two million federal workers already have legal obligations to protect confidential information. However, experts say that a massive implementation of NDA would be unprecedented within the US government.

Experts warn of risks for whistleblowers

Some specialists consider that the proposed wording is too broad and could generate fear among employees who want to report irregularities.

Ray Limon, a former lawyer and former federal government human resources official, told NPR that the initiative could affect those who report cases of fraud, abuse or mismanagement of public resources.

“It seems to be a new measure and very broad in scope,” Limon said. “I think it's going to create a lot more confusion than necessary.”

The proposal states that the agreements would cover information related to internal operations, personnel matters and non-public deliberative materials.

Additionally, the administration opened a public comment period until June 26 to discuss possible sanctions against employees who refuse to sign the agreements. Among the measures considered are layoffs or restrictions on future employment within the federal government.

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