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Are There Regulations Prohibiting Federal Employees From Dating?

When two federal employees start dating, it can be a bit of a difficult situation. On the one hand, you may feel like you have finally found someone who understands the unique lifestyle and stresses of being a federal employee. On the other hand, you may be worried about what could happen if the relationship goes sour.

Relationships between federal employees can affect performance in several ways, and it’s important to be aware of them before making any decisions. In this blog, our top-rated, award-winning federal employment attorneys at The Law Firm of John P. Mahoney, Esq., Attorneys at Law, PLLC discuss federal employee relationships and their potential impacts on your career. We will also share what to do if things go wrong.

Regulations Prohibiting Federal Employee Relationships

There are no government-wide regulations that prohibit federal employees from beginning relationships but OGE Conflict of Interest Guidelines prohibit federal supervisors from supervising those with whom they are in a romantic relationship. It is highly recommended that federal employees refrain from dating coworkers and check their individual employing agency’s regulations before beginning a relationship. With the issue of interoffice dating up to each agency, some federal agencies have instituted policies prohibiting employees from pursuing interoffice relationships.

Dating a Superior or Subordinate

Dating someone who is your superior or subordinate can be a complicated situation. If you are dating someone your superior, they may have power over your career. If you are dating your subordinate, they may feel like they need to report to you or kiss up to you to get ahead. In either case, it is important to remember that relationships between federal employees can harm performance and should be avoided if possible.

It is highly recommended not to date someone within your own department, as it may cause further complications if one party is promoted or the relationship interferes with your daily performance.

What If A Relationship Is Harming My Workplace?

If you find yourself in a federal employee relationship causing problems at work, it may be time to seek out the help of an experienced federal employment attorney. They can help you determine whether any agency regulations have been violated and what steps you need to take next.

Defend Your Rights & Your Career

When two federal employees start dating, it can be difficult to maneuver. You have to think about how this will affect your job and if any regulations could prohibit the relationship. It's important to remember that just because you're dating someone who understands the unique lifestyle and stresses of being a federal employee doesn't mean that the relationship won't negatively impact your career.

If you find yourself struggling in a federal employee relationship, it may be time to seek out the help of a trusted federal employment attorney. They can help you determine whether any regulations have been violated and what steps you need to take next. Don't wait until it's too late — call (202) 350-3881 to schedule a consultation with one of our top-rated, award-winning federal employment attorneys at The Law Firm of John P. Mahoney, Esq., Attorneys at Law, PLLC.