Welcome to the Federal Employee Briefing by Southworth PC - attorneys for federal employees. Our online community has grown to over 120,000 federal employees and followers across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn—united by timely legal insights and genuine care for workplace challenges, plus passionate legal and social advocacy to back those who back America. In today’s briefing, you'll get authoritative updates, practical strategies, and mindful guidance designed specifically for your federal career. Join us to stay informed, empowered, and supported. Thank you everyone for your support! We are grateful!
Top Three News Stories:
1. Federal Judge Considers Limiting Reinstatement of Probationary Employees
A federal judge has signaled the possibility of narrowing a previous order that mandated the reinstatement of nearly 25,000 probationary federal workers who were terminated earlier this year. The initial nationwide injunction faced challenges from the Justice Department, which argued the layoffs were lawful. The judge is contemplating restricting the injunction's scope to the 19 states and the District of Columbia that participated in the lawsuit. Politico
Legal Insight:
This development underscores the complexities surrounding the rights of probationary federal employees. While these employees typically have fewer protections than their tenured counterparts, mass terminations without due process can still be contested under civil service laws. The potential narrowing of the injunction highlights the importance of jurisdictional considerations in employment litigation and may set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.
2. Executive Order Ends Collective Bargaining in National Security Agencies
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order terminating collective bargaining rights for federal labor unions within agencies deemed critical to national security. Affected departments include State, Defense, and Veterans Affairs. The administration cites the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 as granting the authority for this action. Federal employee unions have expressed strong opposition and plan to pursue legal action. AP News
Legal Insight:
The suspension of collective bargaining rights raises significant constitutional and statutory questions. While the government may have leeway in matters of national security, such sweeping actions must still align with established labor laws and respect employees' rights to organize. Legal challenges will likely focus on whether the executive order oversteps the bounds of presidential authority and infringes upon protections afforded to federal workers under the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute.
3. Closure of Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has effectively shuttered the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) following an executive order from President Trump. The FMCS, established in 1947 to mediate labor disputes, has ceased most services, and employees have been placed on administrative leave pending termination. Critics argue that eliminating the agency will lead to prolonged labor strikes and negatively impact the economy. The Guardian
Legal Insight:
The dissolution of the FMCS could have far-reaching implications for labor relations within the federal sector. The FMCS played a crucial role in facilitating negotiations and preventing disputes from escalating into strikes. Its closure may lead to increased litigation as parties seek alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, potentially burdening the judicial system and undermining established processes for resolving labor conflicts.
Mindful Moment of the Day:
The “End-of-Work Exhale” Ritual
Establish a calming ritual to mark the end of each workday. Close your eyes, inhale gently, then slowly release one deep, intentional breath, visualizing all lingering tension and unfinished tasks flowing out with your exhale. This simple yet powerful act helps you clearly delineate between work and personal life, cultivating balance and inner peace as you transition to rest.
Legal Tip of the Day:
Protecting Your Rights in Reduction in Force (RIF) Situations
Federal agencies use RIFs to reduce workforce numbers, but not all layoffs are conducted fairly. Understanding your rights—including tenure status, veteran preference, and competitive retention—is essential. If facing a RIF, thoroughly review the agency’s justification, retention policies, and competitive area definitions. Strong evidence and early legal advice can challenge improperly conducted RIFs and protect your career.
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Social Media Recap:
Hey Federal Employees! Our newest insights—fresh from social media—are now live on the blog. Check out today’s timely updates and practical tips to confidently navigate your federal employment challenges. Here's what's new:
New OPM Regulations Could Threaten Your Appeal Rights
Trump Admin's Legal Argument Could Threaten the Rule of Law
Navigating HHS Layoffs: Protect Your Federal Career
Protecting Your Federal Career Amid Layoff Concerns
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