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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. OMB Pares Back Shutdown FAQ Language on Back Pay

OMB quietly revised its “lapse in appropriations” FAQ to remove language that previously referenced the 2019 Government Employee Fair Treatment Act, guaranteeing retroactive pay to both furloughed and excepted employees after a shutdown. OPM’s separate guidance still says furloughed workers “will be paid retroactively as soon as possible” once the lapse ends, and lawmakers of both parties criticized OMB’s change. The update increases uncertainty for furloughed employees while the administration considers a narrower legal interpretation of the 2019 law. What it means for federal employees: if you are furloughed, plan for possible delay or dispute over back pay, even though the 2019 statute has historically been applied to guarantee it; keep close watch on agency and OPM updates. Government Executive

Legal Insight:

The 2019 law has been treated as guaranteeing back pay in past shutdowns, but OMB’s recent edits and reported draft opinion introduce risk. Save pay stubs and any notices you receive, and document your furlough status and dates. Do not perform unpaid work while furloughed (including checking work email) unless explicitly excepted and directed in writing. If you’re told you may not receive back pay or are pressured to work off the clock, speak with your union or consult counsel about options, including potential claims.

2. Agencies Brace for Broader Furloughs as Shutdown Continues

With the shutdown stretching on, multiple agencies are revisiting contingency plans and preparing additional furloughs. Reporting highlights internal discussions at GSA about phased furlough waves and notes IRS and National Park Service operational impacts as carryover funds dwindle. The article also situates these moves amid uncertainty over back-pay guarantees. What it means for federal employees: expect potential new or expanded furlough notices—monitor official messages, verify your excepted/furloughed status, and keep personal contact info current so you receive instructions promptly. Federal News Network

Legal Insight: 

Furloughs are not performance-related and should come with written notice stating your status and rules (e.g., no work while furloughed). Follow your agency’s orderly-shutdown steps and retain copies of any notices or timekeeping instructions. If your funding source changes (e.g., carryover/no-year funds), you may see status changes—ask for updated written direction. If you receive conflicting directions or are asked to work while furloughed, pause and seek clarification in writing; consider contacting a representative or attorney.

3. OPM Director Outlines Plan to Recruit Tech Talent as Freeze Nears End

OPM Director Scott Kupor says technology hiring is his top priority and hints at a forthcoming tech-hiring initiative as a government-wide hiring freeze is slated to lift mid-October. Months of workforce cuts and the current shutdown complicate the recruiting picture, but OPM is signaling future demand for early-career and “cutting-edge” skills. The piece also notes significant losses in tech teams across government this year. What it means for federal employees: tech-skilled feds and applicants should watch for OPM announcements and USAJOBS postings; agencies may begin planning for targeted hiring once funding resumes. Nextgov

Legal Insight:  

If you were separated or received a RIF notice, explore priority placement programs (CTAP/ICTAP) and agency reemployment options when hiring resumes. Keep your USAJOBS profile and resumes updated now so you can apply quickly when postings open. If you’re on detail or limited-term status during the shutdown, confirm how your appointment type affects eligibility and timelines. For individualized strategy—especially after a RIF, probationary termination, or adverse action—consider consulting counsel.

Mindful Moment of the Day: 

Policy-Debate Pausing 

In heated policy discussions, wait one full breath before responding. This tiny delay lets your prefrontal cortex engage, avoiding reactive or defensive remarks. Your questions and comments will land with more precision. The conversation stays anchored in facts instead of escalating into conflict.