A coalition of 20 Democratic-led states, spearheaded by New York Attorney General Letitia James, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging the legality of recent mass terminations of federal employees. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, contends that the administration’s actions violate federal laws and procedures designed to protect federal workers and ensure the continuity of essential public services.
Allegations of Unlawful Terminations
The lawsuit asserts that the administration’s directive to terminate tens of thousands of federal probationary employees without adhering to established Reduction in Force (RIF) procedures is unlawful. These procedures require advance notice and consideration of factors such as tenure and veterans’ preference before implementing mass layoffs. By bypassing these protocols, the administration is accused of acting beyond its statutory authority, causing significant disruption to federal operations and services.
Impact on Essential Services
The attorneys general argue that the abrupt terminations have adversely affected critical government functions, including support for veterans, healthcare services, disaster response, and environmental protection. In California, for instance, the layoffs have led to a 149% increase in unemployment benefit claims from former federal employees, highlighting the broader economic implications of the administration’s actions.
Legal Actions and Demands
The coalition is seeking declaratory and injunctive relief to halt further unlawful terminations and to reinstate employees who were improperly dismissed. They contend that the administration’s failure to comply with mandated RIF procedures constitutes a violation of the Administrative Procedure Act, rendering the mass firings arbitrary and capricious.
Statements from State Officials
Attorney General Letitia James emphasized the detrimental effects of the administration’s actions on public welfare, stating, “The administration’s plan to eliminate thousands of federal employees’ jobs is dangerous and would be disastrous for our country.” Similarly, California Attorney General Rob Bonta criticized the terminations as “unlawful” and highlighted the potential disruptions to essential services that affect the daily lives of Americans.
Background and Previous Warnings
Prior to the lawsuit, Attorney General James and 11 other attorneys general had issued warnings to federal employees about the administration’s “deferred resignation” program, cautioning them against accepting offers that could jeopardize their rights and benefits. Unions representing federal workers also advised their members to consult with union representatives before making decisions regarding the program.
Administration’s Position
The Trump administration has defended the mass terminations as necessary measures to reduce bureaucracy and eliminate inefficiencies within the federal workforce. President Trump, along with allies like Tesla CEO Elon Musk, has advocated for a leaner federal government, targeting what they perceive as wasteful spending and redundant positions.
The outcome of this legal challenge could have significant implications for federal employment practices and the administration’s broader agenda to reshape the federal workforce.
