The Federal Employee Briefing for February 13, 2025
1. Mass Layoffs of Federal Probationary Employees Initiated
The Trump administration has commenced significant layoffs targeting federal employees still within their probationary periods. Agencies affected include the Department of Education, the Small Business Administration, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and the General Services Administration. This move aligns with President Trump's initiative, supported by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), to streamline the federal workforce. Thousands of employees have received termination notices, with further reductions anticipated.
NOTE: As early as yesterday, OPM seemed to indicate Agency's would not be pressured to fire probationary periods. Technially, they are still saying individual agency's have choice in the matter.
2. Executive Order to Restructure Federal Agencies
President Trump signed an executive order directing DOGE to evaluate and potentially eliminate entire federal agencies, restricting hiring to only essential positions. The directive mandates that for every four federal employees who depart, only one will be replaced, exempting roles in national security, public safety, law enforcement, and immigration. This measure aims to reduce federal spending and debt by downsizing the government workforce.
NOTE: The one for every four rule appears to violate civil service laws regarding merit-based hiring. Watch for this to be challenged.
3. Legal Developments in Deferred Resignation Program
A federal judge has allowed the Trump administration's deferred resignation program to proceed after approximately 77,000 federal workers accepted the buyout offer. The program offers employees eight months of paid leave with benefits in exchange for their resignation. Despite legal challenges from unions, the court ruled that the unions lacked standing, permitting the program to continue.
Note: the judge ruled the union did not have standing to challenge the program, but did not rule on the merits of it. After being allowed to continue the program, OPM chose to end the period to accept resignations without notice.
Daily Legal Spotlight
Court Upholds Deferred Resignation Program Amid Union Opposition
The deferred resignation program, offering federal employees a buyout in exchange for their resignation, has been upheld by a federal judge. Unions challenged the program's legality, but the court determined they lacked standing to sue. This decision allows the administration to continue implementing the program as part of its broader strategy to reduce the federal workforce.
Mindful Moment: The 3-Second Rule for Instant Calm
When tension rises, decisions become reactive, and emotions take the driver’s seat. Instead of reacting instantly, give yourself three seconds—a small pause that can change everything.
🛑 Step 1: Notice the Trigger – Before you respond, recognize the moment of stress or frustration.
💨 Step 2: Inhale for 3 Seconds – A slow, deep breath in through the nose.
🔄 Step 3: Exhale for 3 Seconds – Let the tension go as you breathe out through the mouth.
✨ Step 4: Choose Your Response – With a clearer mind, act with intention, not impulse.
This simple shift creates space between emotion and action, turning stress into strength. Try it before hitting “send” on a tough email, in a high-stakes conversation, or whenever pressure builds. Three seconds can change your whole day.
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