Justice Department's “gag order” on National Association of Immigration Judges

SOURCE www.govexec.com
The Justice Department is warning the National Association of Immigration Judges that they can no longer speak publicly without prior agency approval, raising concerns about a “gag order” despite promises from the Biden administration to support federal workers.

Key Points

  • National Association of Immigration Judges lost union recognition leading to the gag order
  • FLRA voted to decertify NAIJ's union status
  • Biden administration withdrew request for decertification but FLRA reaffirmed the decision
  • NAIJ has appealed to U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit
  • Justice Department directive restricts NAIJ leaders from speaking freely to the media

Cons

  • Restriction on freedom of speech for National Association of Immigration Judges