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Unions Sue to Block 1,300 State Department Layoffs

12/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Unions representing U.S. State Department employees, led by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), filed a lawsuit to block the layoffs of more than 1,300 workers on December 5, 2025.
They argue the layoffs violate a deal prohibiting mass firings through January 30, 2026.
AFGE says the Trump administration misinterpreted the law, and a survey shows 98% of Foreign Service members report poor morale, risking safety abroad.

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Story summary

Unions representing U.S. State Department employees, led by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), filed a lawsuit to block the layoffs of more than 1,300 workers on December 5, 2025.
They argue the layoffs violate a deal prohibiting mass firings through January 30, 2026.
AFGE says the Trump administration misinterpreted the law, and a survey shows 98% of Foreign Service members report poor morale, risking safety abroad.