A federal judge in California, Susan Illston, temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s plans for large-scale reductions and reorganization at 21 federal departments and agencies. This setback for the administration pertains to its initiative aimed at downsizing the federal workforce, which Judge Illston contended must be pursued lawfully and often requires cooperation from Congress. In her order, she emphasized that while presidents can seek changes to executive branch agencies, they must do so within legal frameworks and with legislative collaboration, similar to past precedents.
The temporary restraining order, effective for two weeks, halts the “Department of Government Efficiency” Workforce Optimization Initiative, which includes directives from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Illston, appointed by Bill Clinton, argued that neither OPM nor OMB possesses authority over large-scale terminations or reorganizations, pointing out that such actions exceed the powers Congress has assigned to them.
Although the Trump administration has reduced a number of federal employee positions since January, it has not disclosed the total number affected. Departments impacted by the ruling include OMB, OPM, and the Departments of Housing, Interior, and Transportation. The administration’s defense claimed the lawsuit, initiated on April 28, lacked timeliness because the Executive Order was issued months earlier. However, Illston concluded that the plaintiffs had taken reasonable time to gather information regarding potential harm.
Supporters of the lawsuit, consisting of non-profits, unions, and local governments, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, asserting that haphazard layoffs disrupt essential federal services. More arguments regarding the case are scheduled for May 22. The White House has not yet commented on the ruling.
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