Former Federal Employees Unite with Democrats to Battle Upcoming Layoffs: Here’s What You Need to Know

The current partial government shutdown has started to create significant tensions, especially concerning layoffs across federal agencies. Recently, over 4,000 federal employees received notices about impending layoffs, which are set to take effect in two months. These announcements come amidst a standstill in budget negotiations between Congress and the administration.

Among those speaking out against the layoffs is Jessica Weinberg, a former FDA employee, who expressed deep concern for her former colleagues. “These people want to protect the public,” she said, highlighting the hard work and dedication of federal employees. Their jobs are now under threat, partly due to decisions made just before the shutdown began.

Critics, including Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), have labeled the administration’s claims about the shutdown leading to layoffs as misleading. Van Hollen stated, “This is not just wrong, it’s illegal, and we are prepared to take it to court.” This reflects a growing frustration among lawmakers and federal workers alike.

The shutdown, now in its third week, has stalled critical government operations. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.) stated that negotiations will only resume if Democrats agree to reopen the government. Meanwhile, Senate votes to end the shutdown have failed repeatedly, especially as healthcare funding remains a sticking point for Democrats.

Recent statistics reveal the extent of the problem. A survey by the Federal Employee Council showed that nearly 80% of federal workers feel stressed and uncertain due to the current shutdown situation. Many fear for their jobs and the overall impact on their ability to serve the public effectively

Federal agencies facing layoffs include those in Commerce, Education, Energy, Treasury, and more. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has indicated that it will move forward with these layoffs, asserting that they are necessary during this shutdown.

Experts like Rob Shriver, a former acting director at the Office of Personnel Management, argue that implementing reductions in force (RIFs) during a lockdown may violate existing laws. According to Shriver, such actions are not “essential” and don’t fit the criteria for allowable activities during a government shutdown. His viewpoint is echoed by multiple legal challenges against the government’s plans. Recent reports indicate that legal battles are ongoing, with unions like the American Federation of Government Employees actively pushing back against these layoffs.

This situation draws parallels to previous shutdowns, such as the one in 2018-2019, which lasted 35 days and caused serious strains on federal services. However, during that shutdown, furloughed employees were guaranteed back pay, a promise that seems uncertain this time around due to OMB’s current stance.

As the situation evolves, it is clear that the livelihoods of thousands hang in the balance, making this a crucial period not just for federal employees but for broader governmental operations as well. The resolution of this crisis will significantly shape the future of federal employment and public service.

Source link

american federation of government employees,american federation of state county and municipal employees,chris van hollen,democracy forward,donald trump,furloughed employees,glenn ivey,james walkinshaw,jessica weinberg,mark warner,mike johnson,office of management and budget,office of personnel management,reductions in force,rob shriver