In a major move to downsize the federal workforce, the White House has directed government agencies to submit plans for widespread layoffs by March 13. A memo issued Wednesday by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) provides agencies with specific instructions on how to move forward with the reduction in force.
The directive follows a February 11 executive order from President Trump mandating the cuts, with a focus on eliminating functions not required by law while improving efficiency in essential services. Agencies are also being asked to consider closing regional offices, reducing the use of outside contractors, and even consolidating or eliminating entire sub-agencies where feasible.
To accelerate the process, the memo notes that OPM has the authority to shorten the typical 60-day layoff notification period to 30 days. This means affected employees could begin receiving notices as early as April, with layoffs potentially taking effect by mid-May.
The plan largely spares law enforcement, military, national security, and postal service positions, while also protecting political appointees and White House staff. However, other federal workers—including those in roles previously deemed non-essential during government shutdowns—are at risk.
The directive follows earlier workforce reduction efforts, including voluntary buyouts and the dismissal of thousands of probationary employees hired within the past year. Notably, the Merit Systems Protection Board recently ordered a temporary reinstatement for some of those workers, citing legal concerns over their terminations. The new guidance lays out a legal pathway for agencies to remove them once again if necessary.
By April 14, agencies must enter "Phase 2" of the plan, finalizing lists of employees slated for layoffs and detailing any relocations. Departments providing direct services to the public must also explain how their restructuring will improve service delivery.
The administration has framed the layoffs as a necessary step toward a leaner, more efficient government. However, critics argue the cuts could disrupt public services and harm workers who have dedicated their careers to federal service. As agencies prepare to submit their plans, the coming weeks will likely bring increased scrutiny and debate over the impact of these reductions.
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