Federal Workplaces to Allow Religious Displays to the “Greatest Extent Possible”

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) released new guidance on protecting religious expression in the federal workplace noting that the federal government should be a “welcoming place” for employees who practice a religious faith. 

The guidance says that personal religious expression by federal employees should be allowed to the “greatest extent possible unless such expression would impose an undue hardship on business operations.”

"Federal employees should never have to choose between their faith and their career," OPM Director Scott Kupor told Fox News. "This guidance ensures the federal workplace is not just compliant with the law but welcoming to Americans of all faiths."

Use Cases

According to the guidance, religious items can be displayed on an employee’s desk or assigned workplace, or on an employee’s clothing and the employee can use such items to pray. Also, an agency may restrict all posters, but an agency may not single out religious posters, such as those of a crucifix, a Bible verse, or a Star of David, for harsher treatment. 

Agencies were also ordered to permit religious expressions in both “formal and informal settings” as long as it does not occur during “on-duty time.” That means that groups can gather for prayer or to study scripture while in the office, as long as it doesn’t interfere with work tasks. 

In addition, employees are allowed to talk about religion with one another and can engage in “attempting to persuade others of the correctness of their own religious views, provided that such efforts are not harassing in nature.” 

Guidance was also provided to federal employees who engage with the public. For example, a ranger with the National Park Service (NPS) may join a tour group in prayer and a doctor at a VA hospital may pray over a patient. And a security guard who works at the front desk of a federal building may display religious items as well. 

OPM Director Kupor notes these policies may also help with recruitment and retention. 

“Allowing religious discrimination in the Federal workplace violates the law. It also threatens to adversely impact recruitment and retention of highly-qualified employees of faith,” stated Director Kupor.