Full Breakdown
IRS Atlanta Campus Infestation Prompts Lawmakers to Seek Remote Work Options
6/11/2026, 7:51:12 AM
IRS Atlanta Campus Infestation Prompts Calls for Remote Work
Georgia’s two U.S. senators and a metro-Atlanta congressman have asked federal officials to permit employees at the Internal Revenue Service’s Chamblee campus to work remotely. The request follows reports of a rat and cockroach infestation that, according to the lawmakers, has persisted for several weeks and has disrupted normal office operations.
Background: 2026 FIFA World Cup and Telework Guidance
The Atlanta area will host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A June memorandum from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) reminds agencies in World Cup host cities that they may approve situational telework and other workplace flexibilities. Lawmakers cite this authority as a basis for their request.
Key Lawmakers and Agency Leaders
- Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) – Co-author of the letter, expressed concern over working conditions.
- Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-GA) – Co-author of the letter.
- Rep. Hank Johnson (D-GA) – Co-author of the letter.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent – Recipient of the letter.
- IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank Bisignano – Recipient of the letter.
- National Treasury Employees Union – Provided employee reports referenced in the letter.
Reported Conditions and Employee Impact
Employees and the National Treasury Employees Union allege the presence of live and dead rodents, droppings, and traps throughout the office complex. Some staff have reportedly sat on desks to avoid floor contact, while others claim illness linked to rodent exposure and have resigned. The lawmakers note that remediation efforts have begun but remain in early stages.
Official Statements & Responses
Sen. Warnock stated that employees should feel safe and comfortable in their workplace, a condition he says is lacking at the Atlanta campus. The letter urges the Treasury and IRS to consider a temporary closure and telework arrangement. The IRS has not provided a detailed public response at the time of reporting.
Criticism & Opposition
The lawmakers criticize the agency’s handling of the infestation, describing the conditions as “appalling” and “disgusting.” They argue that health and safety concerns justify immediate action, including possible remote work and a brief shutdown of the facility.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While employee and union accounts describe extensive rodent activity, the IRS’s internal assessment and timeline for remediation have not been disclosed. No official comment on the severity of the infestation or on specific health impacts has been released.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'm appalled and disgusted by the working conditions that IRS employees at the Atlanta campus currently face,” — Raphael Warnock, U.S. Senator
- “Every employee should feel safe and comfortable in their working environment, and that's just not the case right now at the IRS Atlanta campus.” — Raphael Warnock, U.S. Senator
- “full and fair consideration.” — Raphael Warnock, U.S. Senator
What’s Next
The letter requests a briefing on the IRS’s remediation plan and an update by June 23. Lawmakers indicate that a temporary campus closure and expanded telework remain under consideration pending the agency’s response.
