Proposed agreements for government employees spark criticism over transparency and press freedom concerns
The administration of Donald Trump has proposed sweeping non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) for current and future federal employees as part of an intensified crackdown on leaks to the media.
The proposal, issued by the US Office of Personnel Management (OPM), seeks public comments on a draft NDA that federal agencies could use for both existing staff and new hires. The administration says the move is aimed at protecting confidential government information and preventing unauthorised disclosures.
According to the draft notice, the NDA would require employees to formally acknowledge their obligation to safeguard “non-public, confidential, or proprietary information” obtained during official duties while preserving disclosures permitted under existing law.
The Trump administration cited several recent leaks involving internal policy discussions, immigration enforcement plans and sensitive national security matters as justification for the proposal. Officials specifically pointed to unauthorised disclosures involving the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security.
The OPM also referenced media reports surrounding a US operation linked to Venezuela earlier this year, claiming leaked information had the potential to endanger American personnel. However, representatives from major news organisations disputed parts of the administration’s claims regarding withheld reporting.
The proposed agreements would reportedly apply to a broad category of information, including internal agency deliberations, personnel matters, procurement discussions and sensitive pre-decisional material not publicly available.
Critics argue the initiative could have a chilling effect on whistleblowers, journalists and government transparency.
Legal experts questioned whether such NDAs are necessary given that existing laws already prohibit the unauthorised disclosure of classified and sensitive information. Attorney Michael L. Vogelsang Jr. reportedly argued that Congress has previously restricted the use of NDAs that interfere with lawful disclosures.
The American Federation of Government Employees strongly criticised the proposal, accusing the administration of trying to silence career civil servants and discourage dissent within federal agencies.
The move is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to tighten control over internal government communications and information flow following repeated leaks to major media outlets. Recent measures have included restrictions on Pentagon media access and investigations into alleged leaks involving journalists.
The draft proposal is expected to undergo a 30-day public comment process before agencies decide whether to adopt the NDA framework.
For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.
- Trump administration pushes NDAs for federal staff in bid to curb media leaks - May 27, 2026
- Pinarayi Vijayan supporters attack ED team, smash probe agency vehicle during raids - May 27, 2026
- Supreme Court upholds EC’s power to revise voter rolls, backs Special Intensive Revision exercise - May 27, 2026
