A federal judge temporarily blocked most agency RIF layoffs, pausing thousands of pending separations while the case proceeds. For now, that means time — time to confirm your status, gather your records, and plan your next steps.
Here’s what this pause means, and how to protect yourself during it.
What the Court Ordered (in Plain English)
The temporary restraining order (TRO) stops agencies from issuing or administering new reduction in force (RIF) notices connected to the current funding lapse. It applies broadly to programs with bargaining-unit employees represented by the two unions that filed the suit, spanning multiple departments.
Agencies must now submit a list of all active or planned RIF actions to the court within two business days. This requirement helps the judge track how widespread the layoffs were and ensure compliance with the pause.
What’s Paused vs. What Isn’t
Here’s what the court blocking federal RIF layoffs actually means in practice.
Paused:
- New RIF notices and the processing of October 10 layoff letters.
- Implementation steps, such as position eliminations and personnel updates, are tied to those actions.
Still Active:
- Routine HR functions, including workforce planning and documentation.
- Future RIF discussions after the TRO expires or if the administration wins an appeal.
The administration already plans to appeal, so the situation remains fluid. Feds should use this window to organize and stay alert — agencies may resume layoffs quickly if the court lifts the order.
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Practical Steps You Can Take Now
If you’re wondering what to do during the RIF pause, start by tightening your records and clarifying your standing:
- Verify your status:Some employees didn’t see RIF notices sent to agency email accounts that are now inaccessible. Contact HR to confirm whether any actions affect you.
- Review your records:Check your Service Computation Date, SF-50s, veterans’ preference, and recent performance ratings. Fix any discrepancies that could lower your retention standing.
- Know your rights:Learn your competitive area and level, plus your bump and retreat options if displacement resumes.
- Stay connected:Communicate with HR and your union for updates. Track internal postings and reassignment opportunities.
Planning Around Uncertainty (Cash Flow and Benefits)
Even with the pause, it’s smart to prepare financially.
- Build a cushion:Review your monthly obligations and increase emergency savings where possible. Avoid taking actions — like cashing out the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) — that could hurt long-term goals.
- Know your TSP options:If you’ve already experienced an income disruption, review the rules for TSP loans or hardship withdrawals. Document any financial hardship carefully.
- Be ready if layoffs resume:Learn the basics of Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE) in your state. Keep detailed records of missed pay and credit impacts.
Make the Most of the Pause
The TRO gives you extra time to get organized. Check your records, learn your rights, and make a plan while the court reviews the case. The more prepared you are now, the easier it will be to act if the pause ends.
For personalized guidance, reach out to the team at Serving Those Who Serve at [email protected].
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