The Trump administration is advancing a proposal that would require federal employees to sign nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) to enhance the protection of confidential information within government agencies. The draft notice from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) states that this initiative aims to create consistency across the federal workforce and address unauthorized disclosures, which have reportedly disrupted decision-making processes. Violations of the NDA could result in civil and criminal penalties. Critics, including Mark Zaid, co-founder of Whistleblower Aid, argue that the proposal could intimidate employees and hinder lawful whistleblowing, despite OPM's assurances that whistleblower protections remain intact. The American Federation of Government Employees has expressed strong opposition, claiming the NDAs would infringe on employees' First Amendment rights. OPM Director Scott Kupor defended the proposal, likening it to confidentiality agreements commonly required in the private sector. The rule will be officially published, initiating a 30-day public comment period.