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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. Federal Court Halts Trump Administration’s Mass Layoffs

A federal judge in California has issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration’s large-scale layoffs and reorganizations of federal agencies. The court found that the administration likely violated the Constitution’s separation of powers and failed to follow proper procedures under the Administrative Procedure Act. This decision halts the implementation of the administration’s plans to reduce the federal workforce significantly. Reuters

Legal Insight:

This ruling underscores the judiciary’s role in checking executive actions that may overstep legal boundaries. Federal employees affected by proposed reductions in force (RIFs) should be aware that such actions must comply with established laws and procedures. The court’s decision may provide a basis for challenging similar executive actions that bypass statutory requirements. 

2. OPM Cancels Workday HR System Contract

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has abruptly canceled its sole-source contract with Workday for a new cloud-based human capital management system. The $342,200 contract was terminated just a week after being awarded, with no official reason provided. This move raises questions about the procurement process and the future of HR modernization efforts within the federal government. FedScoop

Legal Insight:

The cancellation of a sole-source contract without clear justification may invite scrutiny regarding compliance with federal procurement regulations. Federal employees should monitor how such decisions impact HR services and modernization initiatives, as they can affect personnel management and benefits administration.

3. EEOC Seeks to Terminate Judge Opposing Trump Directives

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is moving to fire Administrative Judge Karen Ortiz after she publicly criticized the agency’s compliance with President Trump’s executive orders redefining sex as strictly male and female. Ortiz, who sent a mass email opposing the directives, has been placed on administrative leave and stripped of her email privileges. Her case has garnered significant attention and support online.  AP News

Legal Insight:

This situation highlights the tension between federal employees’ rights to free speech and the government’s interest in maintaining agency discipline and adherence to policy. While employees have the right to express concerns, especially on matters of public interest, they must also navigate restrictions related to their official duties. The outcome of Ortiz’s case may set important precedents regarding employee speech and whistleblower protections.

Mindful Moment of the Day: 

Moment of Service Intention 

Just before answering a call or stepping into a meeting, pause long enough to ask, “How can I reduce this person’s suffering by 1%?” The question is modest yet potent—it shifts the spotlight from self-performance anxiety to relational service. Behavioral research shows that setting such micro-intentions increases perceived warmth and competence simultaneously, a dual currency that builds enduring trust with clients, colleagues, and even opposing counsel.