OMB Announces Major Federal Employee Layoffs: What You Need to Know

Federal Layoffs Have Started, Says OMB

Recent announcements indicate that significant layoffs of federal employees have begun under the Trump administration. This move was expected amid a government shutdown, which typically does not lead to massive firings. Usually, during shutdowns, federal workers are either on the job, sometimes without immediate pay, or are furloughed without working. However, this situation is different.

Usually, when the government reopens, furloughed employees receive back pay. Yet, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has stated that this isn’t guaranteed this time around. OMB Director Russ Vought confirmed on social media that “RIFs have begun,” referring to reductions in force, which means layoffs are taking place.

Different federal agencies are now issuing RIF notices. For instance, the Department of Health and Human Services has notified certain furloughed employees about potential layoffs, stating it’s a direct consequence of the ongoing shutdown. Similarly, the Department of Homeland Security plans to lay off employees at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), which has faced scrutiny over past management issues.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt mentioned that the number of layoffs could reach the thousands. Just prior to the shutdown, the OMB instructed agencies to prepare RIF plans for programs lacking alternative funding. These layoffs are reportedly linked to programs that do not align with the president’s priorities.

This situation has drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers who argue that these layoffs are inappropriate during a shutdown. Senator Patty Murray labeled the administration’s actions as a choice to “inflict more pain on the American people.” Representative Don Beyer emphasized that mass firings during a shutdown not only violate workplace norms but may breach legal statutes.

In today’s climate, with a 2023 survey showing that 67% of Americans disapprove of how the government handles shutdowns, the reactions highlight growing frustration with political maneuvers affecting workers’ livelihoods. As public discourse evolves, understanding how political decisions impact federal employees becomes crucial.

This story is still unfolding, and further updates will be necessary as the situation develops.

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