Overview
- The department confirmed that Office for Civil Rights employees will resume work starting Dec. 15, with some instructed to return in person on Dec. 29.
- Recall emails went to staff who were placed on paid administrative leave after March reductions in force and ensuing litigation.
- The total number returning remains uncertain, with reports ranging from dozens to roughly 250 or more.
- Officials said the agency will continue appealing the RIF cases but will use all paid employees to work on existing civil rights complaints.
- Union leaders said paying sidelined staff has cost taxpayers more than $40 million and contributed to a growing backlog, including 7,888 complaints logged between March 11 and Sept. 1.