MSPB Orders USDA to Reinstate 5,000 Fired Workers

A significant development this week saw over 5,000 probationary employees of the USDA reinstated after a federal oversight board ruled their terminations were illegal. This decision stemmed from a broader investigation into mass firings initiated by the Trump administration, which have drawn criticism for potentially undermining government operations. The Merit Systems Protection Board mandated a 45-day stay on the terminations while the Office of Special Counsel continues to investigate the legality of these actions. Many of those reinstated had previously received positive performance reviews, highlighting concerns over the lack of due process in their dismissals. Additionally, Congress successfully blocked a bill aimed at barring transgender women and girls from participating in female sports, marking a rare positive outcome for LGBTQ+ rights within legislative actions. These developments collectively reflect ongoing tensions and challenges surrounding federal employment policies and civil rights.