Skip to content

Protecting Your Federal Career Amid Layoff Concerns

federal employment federal layoffs mindfulness at work protect federal career rif procedures
 

An exclusive Washington Post story has revealed a draft White House document suggesting that massive layoffs—ranging from 8% to 50%—may hit various federal agencies. While the document is preliminary and subject to change, the possibility of such significant cuts is understandably causing anxiety for many federal employees.

If you work for agencies like HUD, Interior, Justice, Commerce, SBA, Treasury, EPA, or Social Security, you may be directly impacted. According to the report:

  • PCA may lose up to 50% of its workforce.

  • The Interior Department may see a 25% reduction.

  • IRS and Commerce could face cuts of around 30%.

  • SBA may experience a 43% reduction.

These numbers, while preliminary, suggest a clear intention to shrink the federal workforce, which is part of a broader initiative aimed at reducing government size.

Know Your Rights: What You Need to Understand About RIFs

If these reductions come to pass, they will be carried out through Reductions in Force (RIFs), which follow strict guidelines. Agencies cannot simply eliminate positions arbitrarily. They must adhere to detailed procedures that take into account:

βœ… Seniority and tenure
βœ… Veteran preference
βœ… Performance ratings
βœ… Position classifications

Importantly, if you’re affected by a RIF, you have appeal rights and legal protections that can safeguard your career and financial security. Understanding these rights now can put you in a stronger position if changes come.

Proactive Steps: How to Secure Your Future

In uncertain times, knowledge is power. This is where The Mindful Federal Employee Power Hub Membership becomes an essential resource. Through the membership, you’ll gain access to:

  • On-Demand Courses: Including a specialized course on RIF procedures and your rights.

  • Live Sessions and Q&A: Addressing real-time concerns and offering actionable advice.

  • Exclusive Community Support: Where federal employees share insights, questions, and strategies.

For those seeking deeper guidance, I’m hosting a special live session this Saturday at 11:00 AM Eastern to discuss what we know so far, explain RIF procedures, and outline practical steps you can take to protect your career.

 

You're Not Alone—Let’s Navigate This Together

I know this news may feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Now is the time to prepare, learn, and take control of your future. Join the Power Hub Membership today and gain the tools you need to navigate these potential changes mindfully and confidently.

πŸ‘‰ Explore The Mindful Federal Employee Power Hub Membership Now

 

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.

More ways to learn

Choose the format that helps you understand what is happening.

The Mindful Federal Employee is part of a broader public-education ecosystem from Shaun Southworth, Lydia Taylor, and Southworth PC. Use the resource that fits the question and the moment.

Podcast

Civil Rights for Civil Servants

Hear Shaun Southworth and Lydia Taylor explain federal employee rights, public service, workplace systems, and the people navigating them.

Listen to the podcast

Mindfulness

Work Peacefully

Use practical mindfulness tools to create space between workplace pressure and the decision you make next.

Explore mindfulness resources

About the people behind the work

Shaun Southworth & Lydia Taylor

Meet the federal employment attorneys behind this public-education work and the podcast Civil Rights for Civil Servants.

Meet Shaun & Lydia

Keep up with what changes next

Get the free weekday Federal Employee Briefing.

Join 3,900+ federal employees getting important developments, official sources, and practical next steps from Southworth PC.

Get the Free Briefing