A federal judge has postponed a final decision on labor unions' efforts to restrict Elon Musk's government efficiency team, known as DOGE, from accessing sensitive internal data. Judge John Bates stated that he would issue a ruling at a later time, leaving the matter unresolved for now.
This follows the judge's previous rejection of the unions' request for a temporary restraining order, citing a lack of standing and demonstrable harm. The unions subsequently broadened their lawsuit to include the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Education, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
During a three-hour hearing, the unions argued that DOGE personnel were unlawfully accessing their information because DOGE is not officially a government agency. They alleged that DOGE was influencing staffing and contract decisions, exceeding an advisory role. The unions requested a temporary block on DOGE's access, advocating for a more considered approach.
The Justice Department countered that the DOGE personnel are authorized government employees with legitimate access under the Economy Act.
This delay intensifies concerns among employees at various federal agencies about DOGE's access to potentially confidential internal data, including financial and medical records, employee safety data, and workplace complaints. The plaintiffs also raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, given investigations into Musk-owned companies Tesla and SpaceX within the Labor Department's systems, and access to trade secrets of rival firms.
They argued that DOGE access could discourage employees from reporting issues due to fears of unauthorized disclosure or reprisal.
Judge Bates questioned DOGE's structure and authority, highlighting its unusual reporting hierarchy and its efforts to avoid being classified as a government agency while simultaneously functioning as one.
