The Federal Employee Briefing for March 19, 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. Pentagon Announces Significant Civilian Workforce Reductions
The Department of Defense has announced plans to reduce its civilian workforce by approximately 50,000 to 60,000 positions, equating to a 5% to 8% cut. While around 21,000 employees have opted for voluntary resignations, the majority of reductions will occur through attrition and unfilled vacancies, aiming to decrease 6,000 positions monthly. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on military readiness, though some exemptions to the hiring freeze may be granted to protect essential national security roles. Additionally, plans to terminate 5,400 probationary workers have faced legal challenges, temporarily halting these actions. ​
Legal Insight:
Federal agencies must ensure that workforce reductions comply with legal standards, including proper notice and adherence to employee rights. Failure to do so can result in legal challenges and injunctions, as seen with the halted terminations of probationary workers.
2. Federal Agencies Face Challenges in Reinstating Terminated Employees
Following a court order, federal agencies are working to reinstate approximately 24,500 probationary employees who were previously terminated. Agencies have reported significant difficulties in complying with the order, citing "substantial burdens" and confusion. While around 20,000 workers have been reinstated, most are placed on paid administrative leave, with only a few, such as 170 workers at the Labor Department, resuming their duties. The terminations were deemed improperly conducted reductions in force by a Maryland district court judge. The administration has appealed the ruling, and a hearing for a preliminary injunction is scheduled for March 26. Reuters
Legal Insight:
Compliance with court orders is mandatory for federal agencies. Failure to properly reinstate employees as directed can lead to further legal complications and potential penalties.
3. President Trump Removes Democratic FTC Commissioners
President Donald Trump has expelled Democratic members Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Kelly Slaughter from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), continuing a pattern of aggressive removals at independent agencies. These actions challenge the legal precedent set by Humphrey's Executor v. United States, which restricts presidential power to fire officials from independent agencies. The ousted commissioners were known for supporting data privacy regulations, and their removal halts progress on these initiatives at the FTC. Politico
Legal Insight:
The removal of independent agency officials raises significant legal questions about the extent of presidential authority and the independence of regulatory bodies. Such actions may lead to legal disputes and impact the functioning of these agencies.
Mindful Moment of the Day:
Take frequent, intentional pauses today—brief microbreaks that last just 30 seconds. During these pauses, simply close your eyes, breathe deeply, or stretch gently. Notice how quickly these tiny breaks refresh your mind and body. Mindfulness doesn’t always require more time, just the intention to reset.
Legal Tip of the Day:
If you request telework or flexible schedules, link your request clearly to your productivity, efficiency, or work-life balance. Agencies respond positively when they understand the benefit to both you and the organization.
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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:
TSA Officers: What the AFGE Lawsuit Against DHS Means for You
Required to Report to Office Hundreds of Miles Away? Here's What You Can Do.
Protect Your Federal Career Amidst Government Changes
The Latest Workforce Cuts Is History Repeating Itself—What You Need to Know
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