Overview

• An OMB memo instructs agencies to prepare reduction-in-force plans for programs where funding lapses on Oct. 1, no alternate funding exists, and the work is not aligned with the president’s priorities.
• The guidance says RIF notices would be issued in addition to furloughs and requires agencies to submit plans to OMB, then revise them after appropriations to retain only the minimal staff needed.
• The White House frames the move as a response to Democrats’ demands on health policy, calling them “insane,” after the House passed a seven-week clean continuing resolution that stalled in the Senate.
• Top Democrats condemned the directive, with Chuck Schumer calling it intimidation and Hakeem Jeffries telling OMB Director Russ Vought to “get lost,” while warning of court fights and rehiring.
• An OMB official said Social Security, Medicare, veterans benefits, military operations, law enforcement, ICE, CBP, and air traffic control would continue, leaving many discretionary programs at risk as Sept. 30 approaches.