Federal judge blocks Trump’s govt overhaul, halts mass layoff
People attend a rally in support of federal workers outside the 26 Federal Plaza, a federal office building in New York City, U.S., March 25, 2025. PHOTO:REUTERS
A federal judge has temporarily blocked former President Donald Trump’s sweeping plan to restructure the federal government, halting mass layoffs and reorganisation efforts for at least 14 days.
US District Judge Susan Illston issued a temporary restraining order Friday, siding with a coalition of labor unions, nonprofit organisations, and city governments who argued the overhaul violates the Constitution by bypassing congressional approval.
Trump’s February 11 executive order directed federal agencies to initiate major reorganizations, including job cuts, office closures, and increased automation under the guidance of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk.
The plaintiffs claimed the order prompted unlawful reductions-in-force (RIFs) without congressional oversight.
Illston ruled that large-scale agency overhauls require legislative approval. “The President may broadly restructure federal agencies only when authorized by Congress,” she wrote.
The order pauses further implementation of Trump’s directives at 20 federal agencies, including the Departments of State, Treasury, and Veterans Affairs.
The judge also ordered the government to provide internal restructuring plans by May 13. A hearing is scheduled for May 22 to consider a preliminary injunction.
The Trump administration argued it acted within its executive authority and that any delays were the plaintiffs’ fault.
But Illston dismissed those claims, noting the potential for widespread harm, citing terminations at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and other critical services.
The White House did not immediately comment. T
he case marks another legal challenge to Trump’s executive power, with potential nationwide implications.