The American Federation of Government Employees Union expects the Trump administration to fire at least 1,378 federal employees in Alaska who are on probationary status, according to national representative David Owens. The union does not have current numbers of those already fired but anticipates all probationary employees will be let go. The employees come from various federal agencies, with 331 being veterans. Owens stated that some workers have received termination letters citing poor performance inaccurately. The union is considering filing a class action lawsuit against the administration.
With 11,717 federal employees in Alaska, the loss of probationary workers making an estimated $70,000 per year would total $97 million. Senator Lisa Murkowski has condemned the firings and expressed support for the union and affected employees. State Representative Zack Fields voiced concerns about the impact on transportation projects and the construction industry in Alaska, especially during a critical construction season.
Owens highlighted that the firings would have a negative impact on workers and the economy. The lack of a clear strategy behind the terminations raises concerns about the administration’s approach. Overall, the firing of federal employees on probationary status is seen as detrimental to the workforce and the economy in Alaska.
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Photo credit alaskapublic.org
