Congressman Chris Pappas Opposes OPM Rule Threatening Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Workforce
Congressman Chris Pappas, alongside other lawmakers from New Hampshire and Maine, is opposing a proposed rule by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Merit Systems Protection Board. The rule, titled 'Promoting Employee Accountability,' is criticized for potentially weakening civil service protections and undermining workers' rights at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The lawmakers argue that the rule could hinder workforce recruitment and retention, which is crucial for maintaining U.S. naval readiness. The shipyard requires over 700 new workers annually to meet demands, and the proposed rule could exacerbate existing challenges in hiring and retaining skilled workers. Pappas has been actively involved in efforts to protect civilian workers at the shipyard, especially in light of previous hiring freezes and job cuts under the Trump administration. 
