Attorney General Neronha has aligned with a coalition of 20 attorneys general to file a lawsuit against several federal agencies. The lawsuit challenges the legality of mass layoffs involving federal probationary employees, arguing that these actions are unlawful and detrimental to state resources.
The coalition claims that the terminations impose significant burdens on states by increasing unemployment assistance demands and impacting state finances. Attorney General Neronha stated, "The Trump Administration is thoughtlessly, indiscriminately, and illegally firing probationary federal employees, leaving hard-working Americans across the country jobless." He emphasized the need for legal procedures in reducing government size and criticized the lack of notice given to states regarding these layoffs.
The Trump Administration's decision aims to significantly reduce federal government size by terminating thousands of probationary employees. These employees, who are either newly hired or recently promoted, are typically subject to a one or two-year probationary period. Despite termination letters citing unsatisfactory performance or conduct as reasons for dismissal, the coalition argues this is part of a broader strategy to downsize the government.
Federal laws require adherence to regulations governing large-scale "Reductions in Force" (RIF), which include providing preference for military veterans in job retention. Additionally, when such reductions affect 50 or more employees, agencies must give at least 60 days' notice to state governments. This advance notice enables states to prepare necessary support services for affected workers—a requirement reportedly unmet by the agencies involved.
Joining Attorney General Neronha in this legal action are attorneys general from Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawai‛i, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon Rhode Island Vermont Wisconsin and the District of Columbia.