A federal judge issued a temporary block on President Trump’s executive order, preventing the administration from firing federal employees and dismantling certain agencies. This ruling suspends the White House’s proposed government-wide layoffs, which included staff reductions at key departments like State, Treasury, and Transportation.
Legal Restrictions on Government Reorganization
Senior U.S. District Judge Susan Illston emphasized the president’s authority to restructure government agencies but highlighted the necessity of complying with legal and procedural requirements. While acknowledging the president’s power to initiate large-scale reorganizations, Judge Illston underscored the importance of collaboration with the legislative branch.
Judicial Oversight and Presidential Authority
Notably, Judge Illston referenced President Trump’s previous restructuring attempts in 2017 and emphasized the need for congressional cooperation in such endeavors. The judge’s ruling effectively puts a hold on the February executive order mandating significant workforce reductions across various government entities.
Illston’s order prohibits the Office of Personnel Management and the Office of Management and Budget from issuing new reduction-in-force notifications until May 23 and halts any ongoing layoffs. This decision comes as a response to impending staff cuts scheduled to commence within two weeks at multiple agencies.
