Trump Administration Targets Probationary Federal Workers with Mass Layoffs

The Trump administration's efforts to reduce the federal workforce have focused particularly on "probationary" employees across various government agencies.

Impact Across Agencies

At the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), 6,700 probationary employees are facing termination. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reports indicate a potential loss of 5,200 probationary workers. Last week, the Pentagon announced plans to end the contracts of 5,400 probationary employees. Additionally, the Forest Service may cut 3,400 probationary positions.

Understanding Probationary Status

Under federal regulations, civil servants remain on probation for one year after being hired, promoted, demoted, or reassigned. Notably, those in the "excepted" service, who are not subject to standard competitive selection processes, can be on probation for up to two years.

This vulnerability makes probationary employees particularly susceptible to job losses during administrative downsizing initiatives.