Federal Workforce News
Latest Power Struggle: Government Optimization and the SES
OPM has issued new guidance on optimizing or reinvigorating the SES. Here is a summary of OPM's guidance and the opposition to these changes.
OPM
Stay updated with the latest OPM updates, including new OPM guidance, federal workforce policies, hiring and staffing rules, telework and workplace regulations, and major actions affecting federal employees and agencies. Get the latest news on OPM regulations, HR policy changes, pay and benefits guidance, retirement‑related updates, and government‑wide initiatives shaping federal workforce management. Find clear summaries and analysis to help federal employees, HR professionals, and agency leaders understand how OPM decisions impact the federal workplace.
Human Resources
RIFs Are Coming: What Federal Employees Need to Know About the Upcoming Workforce Optimization Initiative
The Trump administration is directing agencies to plan for large scale reorganizations and RIFs. Details of the plans have emerged.
Human Resources
OPM’s Clarifying Guidance on “What Did You Do Last Week?” Email
OPM issued guidance late Monday giving agency heads more discretion over handling responses to its "What did you do last week?" email to federal employees.
Court Cases
[email protected] Email System Holds Up To Initial Court Review
OPM began using a new email system to communicate with federal employees after the presidential transition. A request for a restraining order against the system has been denied.
Human Resources
Workforce Optimization: Where Does it Stand and Where Is it Going?
Workforce optimization is creating "shock and anger" for federal employees. Agencies that grew the most under the Biden administration will be closely scrutinized.
Court Cases
Judge Lifts Injunction on Buyout Offer
The hold has been lifted on OPM's buyout offer for federal employees.
Retirement
OPM Retirement Backlog Surges 68% to Start 2025
OPM's inventory of retirement claims grew sharply to start 2025, but it's been worse. Here is an analysis.
Human Resources
Agencies Directed to Report to OPM Information For Implementing Trump Executive Orders
OPM is seeking info from agencies by March 7 on changes complying with executive orders impacting telework and Schedule F policies.
Human Resources
Evaluating Employee Performance and HR Merit System: First Step in the Trump Changes
Previous efforts to improve performance of the federal merit system have not lasted. The Trump administration is more aggressive. Unions may face a backlash from some. Here is…
Human Resources
Furloughs, Deferred Resignation, Unions and Court Decisions: Will You Get Paid?
OPM has said furloughs may be coming. Does that mean federal employees get paid?