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Our online community now tops 150,000 federal workers and supporters across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Each briefing distills the day’s most consequential developments, adds clear-eyed legal analysis, and pairs it with mindfulness tools that keep you steady no matter how turbulent the news cycle becomes. If this newsletter helps you stay informed, please pass it on: https://fedlegalhelp.com/newsletter. Your advocacy broadens the protective circle for every federal employee.

Top Three News Stories:

1. IRS Cancels Layoffs and Looks to Rehire in Mission-Critical Areas

The IRS is no longer pursuing planned layoffs. Instead, it will use hiring, reassignments, and the option to rescind some “deferred resignation” agreements to rebuild teams where staffing cuts went too far. The agency had already shed tens of thousands of employees, and some earlier RIF notices have been pulled back as units are reassigned. Managers were told to expect more guidance as the agency tries to stabilize before the next filing season. Government Executive

Legal Insight: 

Keep every notice you received (DRP/TDRP letters, RIF notices, reassignment emails) plus recent performance ratings. If you get a “return” or rescission offer, check deadlines and any conditions. Reassignments must still follow agency policy and any negotiated agreements; ask HR to cite the authority in writing if something seems off. Save copies—good records help in any appeal.

2. Multiple Agencies Cancel Union Contracts After Appeals Court Stay

Following an appeals court’s decision to let the administration’s anti-union order proceed, several agencies—including VA, EPA, FEMA, USCIS and USDA components—moved to terminate collective bargaining agreements and related practices like official time and grievance/arbitration procedures. Unions say the actions are unlawful and continue to litigate. The list is growing, and the landscape may change again as cases proceed. Day-to-day, employees may see new rules for representation, dispute handling, and use of union resources. Federal News Network

Legal Insight:  

Even without a contract, certain rights and processes still exist (e.g., statutory timelines for EEO and whistleblower activity). If your contract is suspended, ask HR which procedures replace grievances and how to elevate workplace issues. Save copies of any agency notice ending the CBA and any guidance replacing it; those documents are essential if you later contest an action.

3. FBI Agents’ Group Alleges Fired Officials Were Denied Due Process

The FBI Agents Association told Congress that five agents fired on August 8 were removed without fair notice or a chance to respond. The group says the terminations created fear across the bureau and may have ignored extra protections for veterans. The FBI declined comment as the dispute draws oversight attention. Government Executive

Legal Insight:

For any removal, you should receive written reasons and a chance to reply; veterans may have added review rights. Save the proposal and decision letters, evidence packets, and your response. Deadlines for MSPB, OSC, or EEO routes are short—don’t rely on verbal explanations. Contact your union or counsel early if the paperwork looks incomplete.

Mindful Moment of the Day: 

Mindful Commuter

Whether you drive, ride Metro, or transition from one room to another at home, treat the first and last five minutes of your commute as mindfulness time. Notice the motion of your body, the feel of the steering wheel, the rhythm of your footsteps. Avoid checking your phone. These small rituals signal the brain to transition between roles—professional and personal—helping you set boundaries that protect your mental energy.