In a sweeping policy shift that could reshape labor relations at one of the largest federal agencies, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has terminated collective bargaining agreements for most of its unionized workforce,

President Donald Trump issued an order ending the contracts in March, but it was temporarily halted by a lawsuit. Earlier this month, an appeals court ruled the plan could move forward.

According to the VA, the decision follows a March executive order signed by President Donald Trump that eliminated collective bargaining rights for many federal employees. A White House fact sheet about the order cited national security concerns, adding, "Certain Federal unions have declared war on President Trump's agenda."