Federal Court Blocks Plan to Dismantle Department of Education
May 22, 2025A major development has just rocked the federal employment landscape: a U.S. District Court granted a preliminary injunction blocking a recent executive order aimed at dismantling the Department of Education (DOE). For federal employees—especially those within the DOE—this is more than a headline. It’s a critical affirmation of your rights, your work, and the rule of law.
Let’s break down what this ruling means and why it matters.
Why the Court Stepped In: Executive Power Has Limits
The administration argued that transferring student loan management from the DOE to the Small Business Administration was a routine reorganization. But the court saw it differently. Judge Myong Joun walked through the four-part test for granting emergency relief and determined that the move likely violated the law.
Congress established the DOE in 1979 to ensure educational equity, including civil rights enforcement. An executive order can’t override that without congressional action. The judge made it clear: the president may shuffle agency roles, but cannot dissolve an entire cabinet-level department created by statute.
Real Harm Already Happening—and the Court Took Notice
Judge June found that the order had already caused irreparable harm: half the DOE staff had been cut, leading to stalled FAFSA processing, paused civil rights enforcement, and disruption of state grants. These aren’t minor hiccups—they’re setbacks that affect millions of students, families, and educators.
For federal employees, this case illustrates a vital principle: when your work is disrupted without proper legal authority, courts can intervene. That’s not just comforting—it’s empowering.
What Comes Next—and How You Can Prepare
While this ruling is a significant win, it’s likely not the end. The administration may appeal, and the legal battle could climb to higher courts. In the meantime, DOE employees are ordered back on payroll, and the agency must continue its critical functions.
If you’re a federal worker caught in similar turbulence—whether at DOE or another agency—know that swift legal action can stop unlawful directives. Staying informed is your best defense.
For those seeking deeper guidance, our Power Hub offers tailored resources on navigating executive orders, reorganizations, and employment rights during agency transitions.
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While I am a federal employment attorney, this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is unique, and legal outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.