New guidelines have just been issued, providing a significant relief for military spouses working for federal agencies.
According to a memo from Charles Ezell, the acting head of the Office of Personnel Management, these individuals are exempt from the mandate that requires a return to in-person work, a directive originally set forth by President Donald Trump.
Remote Work Arrangements
The updated instructions urge federal agencies to allow military spouses to continue their remote work arrangements.
Furthermore, agencies are encouraged to actively seek out military spouses for available remote positions, promoting much-needed flexibility for these employees.
This new guidance follows a memo from January 27, which was jointly issued by the OPM and the Office of Management and Budget.
A noteworthy aspect of that document was its clarification that military spouses working remotely fall under the exceptions related to the Military Spouse Employment Act—meaning they do not need to return to the office.
Transition Plans and Exemptions
The January memo also requested that agencies develop transition plans for eligible employees to return to physical offices while allowing for exceptions for those with valid reasons as approved by agency leadership.
It explicitly noted that remote-working military spouses meet the criteria for these exceptions, emphasizing that they shouldn’t be compelled to resume in-office responsibilities.
Prior to this clarification, many military spouses employed in federal positions found themselves in a state of uncertainty regarding how the return-to-office policy would impact them.
Advocates for military families expressed concerns about the lack of clear directives mandating a uniform application of the exemption across all federal agencies, raising the potential for inconsistencies.
Employment Challenges for Military Spouses
Remote work has emerged as a vital lifeline for military spouses, who often relocate due to their partners’ service commitments.
The flexibility of remote positions allows them to maintain their careers, regardless of where they might be stationed, whether stateside or abroad.
This arrangement significantly broadens the array of employment opportunities available to them.
It’s worth noting that military spouses have historically faced substantial challenges in securing stable employment, with unemployment rates for this group hovering above 20%, according to Defense Department figures.
The new directive specifically encompasses spouses of active-duty military personnel, along with those married to deceased service members who died on active duty and have not remarried, as well as spouses of disabled veterans rated at 100%.
Partners of U.S. Foreign Service employees stationed overseas are also included.
Federal agencies are obligated to follow this guidance, ensuring that military spouses can continue their remote work regardless of whether they were hired under the Military Spouse Employment Act or other employment frameworks.
This directive applies not only to existing remote positions but also encourages future appointments for military spouses in similar roles.
Source: Militarytimes