The Trump administration has proposed a rule that would narrow independent review and restrict court challenges for federal employees laid off in a Reduction in Force (RIF), potentially reshaping the appeals process for large-scale federal layoffs, according to The Hill.
- What’s proposed: A rule change that would reduce or remove the role of the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) in reviewing challenges brought by employees separated through a RIF, The Hill reported.
- Court access: The proposal would also limit access to the courts for affected employees, according to The Hill.
- Who’s affected: Federal employees facing separation through a RIF across multiple agencies could see fewer independent due-process options if the rule is finalized, The Hill reported.
- Status: This is a proposed rule; it is not final. (The Hill did not characterize it as already in effect.)
- Why it matters: RIF actions can involve layoffs, downgrades, or reassignments based on factors such as tenure group, veterans’ preference, length of service, and performance—making the availability of independent review a central safeguard in disputes.
Brief context
Under current practice, federal employees who believe a RIF was conducted improperly may seek review through established administrative channels, including appeals that can involve MSPB review and, in some circumstances, judicial review. The Hill reported the administration’s proposal would pull back on those avenues—potentially leaving employees with fewer options to challenge whether agencies followed required RIF procedures.
The MSPB is the independent, quasi-judicial agency that hears certain federal employee appeals and helps enforce merit system principles. Changes that narrow MSPB involvement in RIF disputes would be a significant shift for employees who rely on independent adjudication to contest separations, especially during periods of restructuring or downsizing.
Employees concerned about how RIF procedures typically work—including retention factors and notice requirements—can review general RIF rules and related personnel guidance through agency HR offices and official OPM resources. For a plain-language explainer of federal RIF mechanics and common misconceptions, see FedBrief’s background coverage (fedbrief.org). For related federal benefits and pay guidance that may come into play during separations, see FedInfo’s federal benefits guides (fedinfo.org).
Source: The Hill — “Trump admin strips MSPB power” (reported by The Hill; accessed via https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5730400-trump-admin-strips-mspb-power/)