The unwarranted dismissal of federal employees during the Trump administration significantly impacted Virginia’s Seventh District. Congressman Vindman is dedicated to standing with federal workers and ensuring they receive the support they deserve. Below are resources to help those affected seek accountability and pursue fair resolution.
Understand Your Rights as a Federal Worker
As a federal worker, you have many basic rights and protections that are important to understand if you are looking to challenge unfair treatment or personnel decisions. To learn more about them, check out the resources below:
Your Rights as a Federal Employee
Prohibited Personnel Practices
Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch
Federal Civil Service Employment Law: A Beginner’s Guide
Navigating Uncertain Times: Protecting Civil Servants’ Rights
*To locate your union to connect with representatives and understand your collective bargaining rights: Find your Union
Unlawful Termination
If you have been terminated, you are able to file a complaint that may be eligible for an appeal. To manage your case, use this portal with the U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB): E-Appeal and Case Management System
For more information on how to file an appeal, click here.
To keep your personnel files updated, click here.
If you believe you were targeted or experienced adverse actions due to political motivations during the Trump administration, below are resources that can guide you on how to report it and seek accountability.
To report to The House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Democrats on receiving information about misconduct, retaliation, and/or unethical practices: Report Potential Wrongdoing Under the Trump Administration
To file a whistleblower complaint to The Senate Democrats: Whistleblowers Form
Job Search
If you have been impacted by workforce changes, including federal transitions or layoffs, the following resources can help guide your employment search:
NOVAnext: Helping Displaced Federal Workers Transition to New Careers
Federal Workforce Transition Resource Guide
Resources for Impacted Federal Workers
Prince William County Resources for Impacted Federal Workers
If you are applying for a new job, you may also need information from Your Notification of Personnel Action form, SF-50: Understanding Your SF-50
Unemployment Benefits
Virginia Employment Commission – Unemployment Insurance Program
If you are unemployed, through no fault of your own, you may be eligible to receive temporary financial assistance through the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) unemployment insurance program.
See if you are eligible for unemployment benefits: Benefits Eligibility
See if you are eligible to receive benefits in Virginia: Virginia Eligiblity
Apply for Benefits – Out of State List
To apply you will need:
- Your social security number
- Name(s), Address(es), telephone number(s), and dates of employment from within the last 18 months
- You need this information for both in-state and out-of-state employers
- If applicable, name and number of local union hall that you obtain work through
- If not a US Citizen, Alien Registration Number
- You may receive payment through VA Debit Card or Direct Deposit. If you choose Direct Deposit, you will need your Routing number and Account Number
Apply here: Apply — Virginia Employment Commission Self Service Portal
If you are unsatisfied with your claim decision, after applying for benefits, you can find information for the appeals process here.
For more information about unemployment benefits, check out these resources:
Guide to Unemployement Benefits — VEC Claimant Handbook
Video: Navigating Unemployment Benefits — Federal Employees
Para informacion en español:
Solicitando Una Reclamacion de Beneficios en Virginia
Guía Sobre Los Beneficios de Desempleo — Solicitante de VEC Manual
Health Insurance
If you lost your job or have had your hours reduced within the last 6- days, you may be able to temporarily maintain your employer provided health insurance through the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA)
To find out if you qualify: COBRA Intake Form
For more information on COBRA Coverage, check out these resources:
FAQs on COBRA Continuation Health Coverage for Workers
An Employee’s Guide to Health Benefits Under COBRA
Video: Know Your Health Benefit Rights
Para informacion en español:
Una guía para el empleado sobre los beneficios de salud bajo COBRA
Video: Conozca sus Derechos de Beneficios de Salud
If you are in need of health insurance, Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace may be able to help you find a low-cost health care option. Click here to learn more.
To browse plans: Browse and Enroll
You may also be eligible for Medicaid. Check eligibility here: Virginia Medicaid