Saturday, January 3, 2026

Feds drop appeal challenging court order halting federal layoffs

On Friday, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed the Trump administration's appeal to reverse a lower court's ruling that stopped federal reductions-in-force (RIFs). This ruling followed a motion by the government to voluntarily drop their appeal.

• U. S. District Judge Susan Illston issued a preliminary injunction on Dec. 17 halting planned RIFs, ruling that certain agencies improperly notified employees of layoffs in early December.

• The injunction prevented the Office of Personnel Management, and several departments from executing any RIFs until at least Jan. 30, 2026, and required reinstatement of any employees affected by RIFs implemented between Oct. 1 and Nov. 1, with back pay.

• The government initially sought an emergency appeal on Dec. 22 but later withdrew its challenge without providing reasons.

• A panel from the Ninth Circuit had previously stayed a part of Illston's order, protecting employees from RIF effects during the appeal process.

• The legal conflict arose from a congressional prohibition against RIFs due to the government shutdown.

The case, with oral arguments scheduled for Jan. 15, reflects a dispute over federal workforce reductions amid legislative protections. 

https://www.courthousenews.com/feds-drop-appeal-challenging-court-order-halting-federal-layoffs/

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