You Are Not Alone: A Resource Guide for Civil Servants Affected by the Supreme Court’s RIF Decision

Resource guide for civil servants affected by the Supreme Court's RIF decision on Tuesday, July 8th, 2025.

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The Supreme Court’s July 8 decision staying the injunction on the Trump administration’s plans to restructure and reduce the federal workforce may trigger real consequences for civil servants. Though the Court has NOT ruled on the legality of the Administration's actions, its decision allows reductions-in-force (RIFs) to proceed while the case continues to be litigated. That means that thousands of federal workers may lose their jobs under the administration’s government reorganization scheme–even though the legality of that scheme remains in doubt. Civil Service Strong is here to help those who are facing a RIF. Below, you’ll find critical information about your rights, next steps, and where to find support—legal, emotional, and professional.

1. What Does the Supreme Court Decision Mean?

The Court’s decision did not rule on the constitutionality or legality of the administration’s civil service overhaul. It merely lifted a temporary block (a preliminary injunction) that had prevented the Administration from moving forward with certain terminations. Though that block is now lifted, and agencies may decide to commence with RIFs, the broader legal challenges—brought by Democracy Forward and partners—continues, and other injunctions remain in place in several federal agencies.

This means that while layoffs may resume in some agencies, the legal process is far from over. Democracy Forward will continue litigating the case, and Civil Service Strong will continue to put out resources and point to our coalition members who are supporting and defending civil servants. 

Key Information:

  • The decision was part of the Supreme Court’s “shadow docket” and does not constitute a full legal ruling.
  • Ongoing litigation will ultimately determine whether these actions are lawful.
  • Injunctions are still active at several agencies, including parts of HHS, the Department of Education, AmeriCorps, and CFPB.

Resources:

2. Which agencies are impacted by this decision?

Over 20 agencies are impacted by the Supreme Court’s order allowing the Trump administration to implement wide-scale RIFs while litigation is ongoing.

The Court’s decision applies to the following agencies: **Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Energy,  parts of Health & Human Services, Housing & Urban Development, the Interior, Labor, State, Treasury, Transportation, and Veterans’ Affairs, as well as AmeriCorps, Environmental Protection Agency, General Services Administration, National Labor Relations Board, National Science Foundation, Peace Corps, Small Business Administration, and Social Security Administration. **

The decision does not apply to the Department of Education, which has a separate case pending before the Court. In addition, other injunctions not affected by the Court’s ruling provide some protections at HHS and Americorps. 

3. What Does It Mean to Be RIF’d?

Being RIF’d means that your position has been eliminated—not because of misconduct or poor performance, but due to structural changes like budget cuts, agency reorganization, or shifts in leadership priorities. It is a formal process with clear legal definitions and rights for affected employees.

If you’ve received a RIF notice, you are not being fired “for cause.” You have rights, including the right to appeal, the right to priority placement for new federal roles, and the right to obtain your own  legal representation. You are entitled to due process and should take steps immediately to understand your options.

Resources:

4. What Are My Rights If I’ve Been Part of a RIF?

Even if your position has been eliminated, you still have enforceable rights. You may be eligible to challenge the RIF through the Merit Systems Protection Board, apply for priority consideration for new positions, and receive assistance from legal networks organized to defend federal employees.

Civil servants can access free legal representation through the Rise Up network, and in some cases, may be able to return to service depending on legal outcomes. It is critical to act quickly, document everything, and seek support.

Key Rights Include:

  • Appeal to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB)
  • File a complaint with the Office of Special Counsel (OSC)
  • Enroll in your agency’s Reemployment Priority List
  • Request legal representation at no cost

Resources:

5. What Are My Next Steps If I’ve Been RIF’d?

If you’ve been notified of a RIF, your next steps should focus on documentation, legal support, and understanding your eligibility for reemployment or appeal. Take immediate action to confirm the details of your notice, preserve documentation, and reach out for help.

Checklist:

  • Confirm the RIF in writing and keep all documentation
  • Contact a law firm or legal support network (like Rise Up) immediately
  • Determine if you’re eligible for the Priority Placement Program

Resource Hub:

6. Do I Qualify for Unemployment Insurance, and How Do I Access It?

Yes. If you are separated from federal service as part of a RIF, you generally qualify for unemployment insurance (UI) through your state. The process is not automatic; you must apply through your state’s UI system.

Each state has its own timeline, eligibility rules, and benefits. You will likely need documentation of your RIF notice, and we recommend applying immediately after separation to avoid delays.

Where to Start:

7. Where Can I Find Support in Finding a New Job?

Many organizations and platforms are working to help federal workers find new opportunities—whether within the federal government or in mission-driven nonprofits, advocacy orgs, or state and local government.

If you were RIF’d, you may be eligible for priority hiring in other agencies. There are also lots of organizations that can help point you in the right direction for what to consider next. 

Job Search Resources:

8. Where Can I Find Mental Health Support?

The stress and emotional toll of being separated from public service is real. If you are struggling with anxiety, grief, or uncertainty, there are confidential, affordable resources available to help. Taking care of your mental health is part of getting through this.

If your agency has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), you can access free, confidential counseling. If not, or if you want additional support, national and local resources can provide counseling or peer support.

Mental Health Resources:

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Civil Service Strong is committed to defending those who serve the public. You are not alone in this moment, and you are not without options. We will continue to fight for you—in court, in public, and in policy.

For additional RIF resources, click here.

Additional resources