Employment experts agree: Telework is a protected right
The Hill
by Gleb Tsipursky, opinion contributor February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Trump’s January 2025 memorandum aimed to end broad remote work in the federal government, sparking a divide between leaders who viewed it as a return to pre-pandemic norms and employees who relied on telework as a disability accommodation. For these individuals, the directive was seen as a civil rights issue, as their ability to work effectively often depends on flexible arrangements rather than convenience alone. This clash highlights the tension between workplace efficiency and individual accommodations, raising questions about the future of remote work in government.
The memo was treated by many leaders as a way to restore traditional work structures, aligning with expectations of full-time, in-person duty stations. However, for employees using telework as an accommodation for disabilities, this shift felt like a significant regression. During the pandemic, remote work became a common practice, but for those who required it as a necessity, the sudden pushback against flexibility was perceived as discriminatory. These individuals argued that their ability to perform their jobs effectively hinged on the accommodations they had relied on for years.
The debate over telework underscores broader conversations about workplace accessibility and civil rights. Advocates for disability rights argue that ending remote work without providing alternative solutions could force employees out of their roles, potentially leading to discrimination claims. Legal experts highlight the importance of adhering to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/24/2026