WASHINGTON – The Trump administration took decisive action Tuesday, proposing nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) for federal employees to safeguard sensitive government information and protect national security. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) released a draft NDA designed for federal agencies to use with new and existing employees, addressing concerns about unauthorized disclosures to the press.

The proposal reflects a commitment to responsible governance and the protection of confidential information essential for effective agency operations. Leaks to the media can jeopardize ongoing investigations, compromise national security interests, and undermine the ability of government agencies to perform their duties effectively. The NDA aims to establish clear boundaries and consequences for those who violate the trust placed in them as public servants.

According to OPM spokesperson McLaurine Pinover, the move stems from concerns that unauthorized disclosures of sensitive government information are disrupting agency operations and eroding trust across government. Restoring that trust is a key component of responsible government.

The draft agreement outlines potential civil and criminal penalties for employees who violate the terms of the NDA, sending a clear message that unauthorized disclosures will not be tolerated. Furthermore, the U.S. government would be entitled to any royalties earned by employees as a result of disclosing information in violation of the agreement, preventing individuals from profiting from breaches of confidentiality.

It is important to note that the proposed NDA does not impede lawful disclosures or protect wrongdoing. Federal law continues to protect whistleblowers who disclose fraud, abuse, and misconduct in their workplaces to internal government watchdogs and Congress. The NDA is specifically designed to target unauthorized disclosures that jeopardize national security and disrupt agency operations.

Steve Lenkart, executive director of the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), acknowledged that federal employees retain protected rights, including the ability to communicate with Congress and inspectors general, as well as, in many circumstances, the press regarding government misconduct and matters related to their employment. This confirms that the NDA is not intended to suppress legitimate concerns or prevent the exposure of wrongdoing.