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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. White House: Shutdown Layoffs are Just Days Away

Government Executive reports White House officials said agencies will begin reductions in force within days if the shutdown continues, an unprecedented step tied directly to the lapse in appropriations. Vice President J.D. Vance and the press secretary said OMB is coordinating layoff plans across agencies, while acknowledging specifics are not finalized. The story also notes at least one agency has already initiated a limited RIF and that any RIF notices would likely come with advance notice periods. For federal employees, this means you should watch for official RIF notices and instructions from your agency and understand that shutdown furloughs and permanent RIFs are legally different actions with different timelines and rights. Government Executive

Legal Insight:

A shutdown furlough stops work temporarily and back pay is guaranteed by statute once funding resumes; a RIF is a permanent action that typically requires written notice (often 60 days), competitive-area determinations, and appeal rights (e.g., MSPB for most Title 5 employees). If you receive a proposed RIF notice, note the effective date, bump/retreat information, and appeal options, and consider contacting your union or counsel promptly. Do not assume shutdown status equals a RIF; wait for written notice before making employment decisions. Keep copies of all communications and maintain your own timeline of events.

2. Agencies Begin Shutdown Activities as Congress Fails to Pass Fiscal 2026 Funding

Federal News Network says OMB directed agencies to start “orderly shutdown” steps and told employees to report for their next scheduled day to complete close-out tasks. The piece explains that agencies will issue a follow-up memo to reopen government once an appropriations bill is signed and that many agencies refreshed contingency plans detailing expected furloughs. It also highlights lawsuits challenging OMB guidance on conducting RIFs during the shutdown and flags that CISA will furlough a significant share of staff. For federal employees, this means follow your agency’s shutdown instructions, complete day-one tasks, and do not work if furloughed until recalled. Federal News Network

Legal Insight: 

During a lapse, non-excepted employees cannot work under the Anti-Deficiency Act; excepted employees should perform only designated duties and keep a personal record of hours. Save written instructions on timekeeping, equipment, and points of contact, and ask for clarifications in writing. If you are told to work while furloughed or given conflicting guidance, request correction in writing and consider seeking counsel.

3. Trump Administration Knocks Out At Least 15 Oversight Websites, Saying IGs ‘Lied to the Public’

Nextgov/FCW reports that OMB withheld funds from the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE), taking down Oversight.gov and at least 15 OIG websites, including whistleblower hotlines and report libraries. The article stresses the move is separate from the shutdown and immediately limits public access to oversight materials and reporting channels. Lawmakers and former IG officials criticized the decision and urged restoration of funding. For federal employees, this means some external IG resources and hotlines may be unavailable; use internal IG contacts or alternate hotlines your agency provides and document attempts to report concerns. Nextgov

Legal Insight:  

If an IG website or hotline is down, use alternative, official channels (phone numbers, internal email addresses) and keep a record of your efforts. For statutory or policy reporting deadlines, submit through available means and document outages to preserve compliance. Avoid sharing sensitive information via unofficial platforms, and if you fear retaliation or face time-sensitive reporting duties, seek guidance from your union or an attorney versed in federal whistleblower protections.

Mindful Moment of the Day: 

EOPF Check-In Pause

When updating your personnel file, pause for one deep breath. Acknowledge the journey reflected in those records—your milestones, challenges, and growth. This moment of recognition boosts intrinsic motivation and career satisfaction. You’re not just maintaining a file; you’re honoring your professional story.