In a major development regarding the government shutdown that began on October 1, 2025, U.S. District Judge Susan Illston in San Francisco has issued an emergency order preventing the Trump administration from proceeding with planned layoffs of federal workers. The ruling comes after agencies began issuing layoff notices as part of an effort to reduce government size and exert pressure on Democratic lawmakers. Judge Illston criticized the administration's actions as hasty and lacking consideration for the human cost involved. The American Federation of Government Employees, alongside other labor unions, argued that these layoffs were politically motivated and designed to intimidate federal employees. As the shutdown enters its third week, the administration has faced calls to address issues ranging from health care demands to potential repercussions on essential services.
Federal Judge Halts Layoffs Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown
Federal Judge Halts Layoffs Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown
In a significant ruling, a San Francisco judge has stopped the Trump administration from proceeding with planned layoffs during the government shutdown. This order comes as the shutdown, affecting numerous federal workers, continues into its third week.
U.S. District Judge Susan Illston issued an emergency order preventing layoffs aimed at reducing federal agency sizes during the ongoing government shutdown, citing the actions as reckless and harmful. Unions criticized the layoffs as political retaliation. The Republican administration continues to seek leverage over Democrats amidst this budget standoff.
