Agencies Recall Furloughed Staff, Rescind Layoffs as Shutdown Ends
The conclusion of the longest government shutdown has prompted federal agencies to call back furloughed employees. Many of these workers, who have faced six weeks without pay, are expected to return to work as operations resume. The House of Representatives voted to pass a spending plan, facilitating the reinstatement of approximately 670,000 furloughed employees.
Back Pay and Work Restoration
Under the newly passed spending package, both furloughed and non-paid federal workers will receive back pay. This legislative move encapsulates efforts to support employees who endured financial strains during the shutdown.
Legislative Actions and Budget Provisions
The Senate approved the spending plan earlier, which includes a continuing resolution. This resolution will maintain funding for various agencies until January 30, 2026. Key departments receiving funding include:
- Department of Agriculture
- Department of Veterans Affairs
- Military construction
- Legislative branch
Impact on Federal Employment
The recent legislation also addresses layoffs. Approximately 4,000 federal workers, who received Reduction in Force (RIF) notices, will have these rescinded. Notably, the IRS is in the process of retracting layoff notices issued in October.
Communication to Employees
Federal entities, such as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Census Bureau, have informed employees of their return dates, contingent on the bill’s passage. For instance, HHS communicated that all furloughed staff should report back to work by November 13 if approved.
IRS managers specified that as the government reopens, staff should remain prepared for their roles, reiterating that layoffs would be dismissed as part of the new agreement. However, the IRS is simultaneously facing challenges, with a significant reduction of about 25% of its workforce this year due to voluntary leave incentives.
Conclusion
This resolution marks a critical step in restoring federal operations while alleviating the burdens faced by affected employees. As agencies begin transitioning back to normalcy, they aim to enhance workforce stability through the rescission of layoffs and the assurance of back pay.
