A federal judge has allowed the Trump administration to proceed with plans to reduce the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) staff, which unions argue is harmful, especially for those stationed overseas in politically dangerous areas. Judge Carl Nichols rejected a temporary block against the layoffs, emphasizing that challenges must be pursued under federal employment laws. The administration claims the agency's functions are wasteful, a point contested by various lawsuits from unions and other groups questioning the legality of dismantling USAID without congressional consent.
His ruling comes in a lawsuit filed by unions on behalf of workers. Their objections include that the rush to dismantle the agency had cut off some staffers overseas from emergency communications systems and other essential support, including some in danger because of political violence in Congo.
Nichols found that the unions' challenge must be dealt with under federal employment laws rather than in district court.
Multiple lawsuits from groups representing USAID workers and nonprofits and businesses are challenging the job cuts and the sudden shutdown of the agency overall, as well as a freeze on foreign assistance.
President Donald Trump and the cost-cutting Department of Government Efficiency tied to billionaire Elon Musk have moved swiftly to shutter USAID, asserting without evidence that its work is wasteful and out of line with the president's agenda.
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