Good Afternoon Team,
In light of the civil
discourse currently taking place throughout the Nation, it is important that we
remind ourselves that as Federal Employees we are bound by certain
restrictions. Please read through the guidance below, which has been
provided by our LGA Field Counsel. As we exercise our own personal
civil liberties, please use the information below to guide your actions.
This guidance is to remind
all TSA employees of our obligations under the federal regulations and TSA
Management Directives. Regarding protest participation, as employees of
the federal government, you:
- Can participate in lawful, nonviolent protests and mass gatherings during your personal time.
- Can, in a civil and professional manner, express your personal opinion about societal happenings, be they national, state, or local.
- Must be mindful of how the expression of your personal opinion may be received by your colleagues. Comments that are viewed as political activity are not allowed.
- Need to comply with state and local ordinances, including the wearing of facemasks.
However you:
- Cannot participate in such gatherings during your official hours, or while wearing a TSA uniform, badge, or insignia.
- Cannot participate in unlawful, violent protests at any time.
- Cannot harass, speak ill of, or otherwise demean a TSA colleague for their participation in – or disagreement with – the protests.
Such activities can
potentially be in violation of law and result in criminal prosecution. In
addition, these activities violate TSA policy regarding performance and conduct
which can result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from
federal service.
In addition, many cities
across the country have temporary curfews in place, which must be obeyed.
- If stopped or questioned while on your way to or from work, remember TSA employees are considered essential employees.
- The TSA PIV card can be used as a source of ID if you are stopped while on your way to or from work.
V/r,
Matt McKeon
Deputy Federal Security Director
Transportation Security Administration
LaGuardia/Long Island MacArthur/Westchester County/New York
Stewart Int’l Airports
75-20 Astoria Blvd, Suite 300
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
W: 718-340-0039
C: 718-734-8843
