The Federal Employee Briefing for March 18, 2025
Hello and welcome to our latest Federal Employee Briefing! We have built a thriving online community of more than 100,000 followers across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn to share timely legal insights. In this issue, you’ll find authoritative updates, practical tips, and genuine care for the unique challenges federal employees face. Follow us, stay informed, and help us make a real difference for the federal workforce!
Top Three News Stories:
1. Federal Appeals Court Upholds Reinstatement of Fired Workers
A divided U.S. appeals court has upheld a San Francisco federal judge's ruling, ordering the Trump administration to reinstate thousands of probationary federal employees who were terminated without individual performance assessments. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals emphasized the need for immediate rehiring to prevent further disruption, while acknowledging the administrative challenges involved. This decision reinforces the judiciary's stance on ensuring due process in federal employment practices. ​San Francisco Chronicle
Legal Insight:
This ruling underscores the judiciary's role in upholding due process within federal employment practices. Agencies must ensure that personnel actions, including terminations, are conducted in compliance with established legal standards to avoid potential reversals and associated operational disruptions.
2. FDA Employees Face Challenges Amid Return-to-Office Mandate
Thousands of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) employees returning to on-site work encountered logistical issues, including overcrowded parking, long security lines, and inadequately equipped workspaces. These challenges arise as part of the Trump administration's directive to reduce remote work among federal employees, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure and planning to support the transition back to physical offices. ​AP News
Legal Insight:
Federal agencies are obligated to provide safe and functional work environments for their employees. Failure to address infrastructure and logistical challenges during a mandated return-to-office transition could lead to legal liabilities related to workplace safety and employee well-being.
3. States Compete to Recruit Laid-Off Federal Cybersecurity Experts
In the wake of federal workforce reductions, several states, including New York, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Hawaii, and Maryland, are actively recruiting former federal cybersecurity professionals. These states are offering incentives such as fast-track promotions, specialized training, and enhanced job security to attract these skilled workers into their public sector roles. This initiative aims to bolster state-level cybersecurity defenses amid increasing cyber threats and a competitive job market. ​WSJ
Legal Insight:
Transitioning from federal to state employment requires careful consideration of differences in employment laws, benefits, and job security provisions. Former federal employees should thoroughly review state employment contracts and understand the legal implications of their new roles to ensure a smooth transition and protect their professional interests.
Mindful Moment of the Day:
Your internal dialogue shapes your reality. Today, choose words of strength and kindness to speak silently to yourself. When doubt arises, gently remind yourself, “I am capable, calm, and resilient.” Notice how empowering language instantly shifts your mindset from stress to clarity and confidence.
Legal Tip of the Day:
Understand and respect filing deadlines for internal complaints or grievances. Missing a deadline could limit your options, so always mark important dates and act promptly.
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Social Media Recap:
Hey Federal Employees. We just posted our latest insights for federal employees—originally shared on social media—now conveniently available on our blog. We cover timely updates and practical tips to help you navigate employment challenges. Here are our latest posts for your convenience:
Thousands of Probationary Federal Employees Terminated—Until A Judge's Ruling Halted It
Judge Blocks Mass Terminations of Probationary Federal Employees
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