Overview

• Attorneys general from 19 states and Washington, D.C., filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration over mass firings of probationary federal workers.
• The lawsuit claims that the administration bypassed legally required procedures for reductions in force (RIFs), including providing 60 days' notice to employees and state governments.
• Over 23,000 probationary employees, often new hires or recent promotions, have been terminated since January 20, 2025, according to the lawsuit.
• The firings are part of the administration's broader efforts to downsize the federal workforce through the newly established Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk.
• The attorneys general are seeking a court order to reinstate the fired employees and prevent further terminations without adherence to federal regulations.