The Department of the Interior is moving forward with significant layoffs starting Monday, October 20, despite a federal judge’s ruling that prohibits such actions due to a government shutdown. This information was reported by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE).
Details of the Layoff Plan
The AFGE noted that their attorneys received information from multiple credible sources about the Department’s intentions. The union filed a court request to confirm the impending layoffs, prompting a response from the government. This response indicated that additional details would be shared by Friday’s deadline.
Judicial Intervention
Judge Susan Illston of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California is presiding over the matter. She granted the union an urgent hearing, also moving up the deadline for the government’s disclosure of layoff plans to 11 a.m. Pacific time on Friday.
Previously, Judge Illston had issued a temporary restraining order against any further layoffs at federal agencies. This order specifically required the government to provide a list of employees affected by layoffs during the shutdown, alongside plans for future reductions, by 5 p.m. on Friday.
Background and Impact
This legal development follows significant job losses, with more than 4,100 federal workers being terminated from various agencies the previous week. Notably, the Department of the Interior was not included in that round of layoffs.
- Layoff Start Date: October 20
- Judge: Susan Illston
- Previous Layoffs: Over 4,100 workers from other federal agencies
The situation is closely monitored as it affects numerous federal employees and raises concerns about job security across various departments. Legal proceedings continue to develop, ensuring that employee rights are adequately protected during this tumultuous period.
