A federal judge has issued a ruling that temporarily blocks the Trump administration’s plan to slash federal agencies and lay off tens of thousands of federal workers.
Judge’s Ruling on Trump Administration’s Federal Layoffs
U.S. District Judge Susan Illston, based in California, delivered a two-week restraining order on Friday, halting the government’s mass layoffs. In her 42-page ruling, Judge Illston emphasized that while the president does have authority over the federal workforce, any major reorganizations or layoffs must be done “lawfully” and with cooperation from Congress.
“The President has the authority to seek changes to executive branch agencies, but he must do so in lawful ways, and in the case of large-scale reorganizations, with the cooperation of the legislative branch,” Illston stated in her order.
The ruling acknowledges that although the president can request significant changes, it’s likely that Congressional approval is required for such sweeping reductions. Therefore, the judge imposed a temporary restraining order, pausing the planned layoffs until May 23, 2025.
Impact of Judge’s Temporary Order on Trump Layoff Plans
The judge’s decision halts new notifications of employee layoffs from critical government agencies, including the Department of Labor, Department of Energy, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Health and Human Services. This ruling marks a significant pause in one of President Trump’s most controversial executive actions during his second term.
Lawsuit Sparks Legal Challenge to Trump’s Mass Layoffs
This ruling stems from a lawsuit filed by a coalition of labor unions, cities, nonprofits, and counties, challenging the Trump administration’s right to unilaterally reorganize the federal government without Congress’ approval. The plaintiffs argue that the president cannot restructure federal agencies or implement large-scale layoffs without the express consent of the legislative branch.
Tens of Thousands of Federal Workers Affected
The Trump administration has already laid off tens of thousands of federal workers in recent months, and several agencies have either been dramatically downsized or completely shut down. With the help of Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency, the administration has pursued aggressive efforts to reduce the size of the federal government.
In response to growing legal challenges, several judges have recently issued pauses on the sweeping layoffs and reorganizations initiated by the Trump administration.
What’s Next for Federal Layoffs Under Trump’s Second Term?
As the temporary restraining order remains in effect until May 23, the fate of the proposed mass layoffs will be determined by future legal proceedings. President Trump’s efforts to overhaul the federal government face mounting resistance, and this ruling could mark a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal battle.
