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2mo ago

Federal Judge Rules Trump’s Firing of Civil Service Board Member Unlawful

Judge reinstates Cathy Harris to the Merit Systems Protection Board, citing lack of cause for her removal under federal law.

Cathy Harris of the U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board poses as she leaves the E. Barrett Prettyman U.S. Courthouse in downtown Washington, D.C., U.S., March 3, 2025. REUTERS/Mike Scarcella
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Overview

  • U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras ruled that President Donald Trump unlawfully fired Cathy Harris from the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) without cause.
  • Federal law restricts the removal of MSPB members to cases of inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance, none of which were cited in Harris's termination.
  • The court issued a permanent injunction reinstating Harris, who was appointed by President Joe Biden in 2022 for a term ending in 2028.
  • The decision highlights a constitutional clash over presidential authority to remove independent agency officials and could set the stage for Supreme Court review.
  • The MSPB, which adjudicates federal employee disputes, risks operational delays as ongoing legal challenges affect its quorum and leadership stability.