In early March, a federal judge in Maryland issued a preliminary injunction precluding Elon Musk‑backed “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) from accessing Social Security Administration (SSA) data—blocking access to wage records, Social Security numbers, and related personal information.
Unions Warn of Privacy Risks
A coalition of labor unions (AFGE, SEIU, AFSCME) along with the Alliance for Retired Americans argued to the Fourth Circuit that lifting the injunction would violate members’ privacy rights, citing longstanding protections under the Privacy Act of 1974 and the E‑Government Act of 2002.
DOGE’s Pushback and Getaround Attempts
Despite legal barriers, DOGE—backed by the Trump administration—allegedly attempted to circumvent the injunction by placing its personnel inside the SSA and reassigning agency officials, raising red flags about internal interference and possible data leaks.
Broader Implications
Beyond Social Security, DOGE seeks access to IRS and HHS data as part of its modernization initiative. Critics worry a rapid overhaul could compromise sensitive systems and disrupt benefits for over 70 million Americans.
The Road Ahead
The unions are urging courts—including potentially the Supreme Court—to maintain the injunction until procedural controls, accountability mechanisms, and privacy safeguards are rigorously defined and enforced.
For further details, please contact the lawyers at Tobia & Lovelace Esq., LLC at 201-638-0990.