Religion in the Federal Workplace: New Guidelines Issued

The Trump administration has released new guidelines that permit U.S. federal employees to engage in religious activities and recruit coworkers for religion-based groups during non-work hours. This policy aims to integrate more religious presence within federal offices, suggesting a shift to accommodate various faith-based practices.

According to a statement from Scott Kupor, director of the Office of Personnel Management, employees can attempt to persuade colleagues of their religious views, provided these discussions are not harassing. Supervisors are also permitted to recruit employees for religious affiliations, as long as nothing is coercive about these interactions.

In response to President Trump's executive order addressing perceived anti-Christian biases in government operations, the Office of Personnel Management has arranged adjustments like flexible hours and remote work options for workers observing religious practices. Prayer groups are permitted so long as they occur outside of official work hours.

(With inputs from agencies.)