Two federal judges recently ruled against efforts by several labor unions to halt the Trump administration’s plan to terminate federal employees and implement mass layoffs. This decision allows the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to proceed with its initiatives aimed at reducing government waste.
On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper denied a request from the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) and four other labor unions for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) to stop the firings of probationary employees. The unions had raised concerns over a deferred resignation program that offered federal workers a choice: return to the office or resign while continuing to receive pay through September. This program required employees to make a decision by February 6, but the deadline was extended to February 12 before being closed.
The labor unions filed their complaint on February 12, challenging the firing of probationary employees and the implementation of the resignation program. However, Judge Cooper stated that the court did not have jurisdiction over the unions’ claims and directed them to pursue their grievances through the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute, which allows for administrative review by the Federal Labor Relations Authority.
In a separate case, U.S. District Judge Tanya S. Chutkan responded to a request from 14 states seeking to prevent Elon Musk and DOGE from accessing data systems at various federal agencies for 14 days. The states also sought an order to stop any terminations, furloughs, or leaves of absence for federal employees within those agencies. Judge Chutkan acknowledged the uncertainty caused by DOGE’s actions but ultimately decided that the department could continue its operations as they are.
The ongoing legal battles highlight the tensions between federal labor unions and the Trump administration’s efforts to streamline government operations. As the situation develops, the unions are expected to continue their fight through the appropriate channels, while DOGE remains focused on its mandate to eliminate inefficiencies within the federal workforce.