What kind of nonessential work do you do? In the public sector I take gigs where I can get them.

Anyway, as your employer, I never guaranteed that I wanted you to keep doing your nonessential task when my representatives conclude there's no plan in which it's in my interests to have you do so. I suppose you can sue me, or you can take up the enervating mantle of private sovereignty alongside me and take responsibility for your own life.