Dear Chapter 282,

​

Hello, NTEU Chapter 282 Members!

 

HHS/FDA employees are begining to report that they are receiving an email—likely sent to your government email address—providing an update on your employee status following the preliminary injunction issued on May 22, 2025, by Judge Susan Illston of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The email may come from your immediate supervisor or be sent from an official at the agency level of management. Many RIF’d employees have reported receiving an email yesterday stating that the RIF is currently on “pause” and that employees scheduled for separation on June 2, 2025, will not be separated at this time and should expect to remain on administrative leave until further notice. This is a significant and positive development, made possible through the combined efforts of all federal unions working together to protect employees’ rights by fighting in the courts and in every way possible.

 

However, while this pause offers a temporary reprieve, it is important to remain realistic. Yesterday, the Trump administration appealed the preliminary injunction to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The Ninth Circuit could uphold the lower court’s ruling—keeping the RIFs on pause—or overturn it, allowing the RIFs to proceed. The Trump administration has also requested The Supreme Court stay (stop) Judge Illston's preliminary injunction. The union is closely monitoring this legal process, and we will provide updates as decisions unfold. For now, baring a decision by either the Ninth Circuit or the Supreme Court before Monday, June 2, 2025, employees should expect to remain on administrative leave until further guidance is issued by HHS and FDA or until one of the two courts comes out with a ruling. 

 

The NPR article below does a good job explaining the court processes that are playing out. 

 

Next Steps for RIF’d Employees

As a precaution, we strongly encourage any RIF’d employees who have not yet done so to immediately complete the attached HHS RPL form to ensure placement on the Priority Reemployment List (PRL). Please complete the form, including the signature and date blocks, and submit it via email to FDA-ARRP@fda.hhs.gov.

 

How to Register for HHS RPL:

1. Employees must register for the RPL on or before their RIF separation date. Eligibility is restricted to positions within the same commuting area and grade level as the position from which they are being separated (5 CFR 330.206).

2. RPL registrants may specify conditions they will accept, including: 

   • Additional occupation(s) and series

   • Lower-grade positions

   • Permanent and/or time-limited appointments

   • Minimum hours per week, if currently on a part-time schedule

If you wish to register, complete the RPL registration form and email it, along with your RIF letter, to FDA-ARRP@fda.hhs.gov.

 

For Questions regarding RPL - ERIC# 301-827-3742, Option#3, Priority Placement Coordinator: Rhonda Edwards

 

Additional Resources:

• HHS Workforce Optimization Initiative

• eCFR: 5 CFR 330.206 – RPL Registration Timeframe and Positions

• Article: Judge Halts Trump’s Plans to Slash Government | NPR

• Legislative Action Center – NTEU

• Request your 15 min. meeting with the benefits office to get answers to your benefits questions: OO-OHCM-Benefits@fda.hhs.gov , Jacqueline Williams - Benefits Branch Chief. You may also submit an ERIC ticket to speak to someone: ERIC# 301-827-3742, Option#3.

 

Advocacy and Congressional Outreach

Your voice matters. We strongly encourage you to continue contacting your members of Congress to explain how the RIF is impacting you, your family, and the critical work you do for the public. Use the NTEU Action Center to reach out to your representatives. Additionally, consider requesting a personal meeting with your member of Congress to advocate for their assistance in stopping the RIF.

 

Attachments to this email: RPL Form and NTEU Update on Mass Firings Memo

​

In Solidarity,

Anthony Lee

​

​

Join the Union:

​

If you haven’t already, consider joining the union: https://www.nteu.org/join . It’s a powerful way to have your voice heard and actively participate in shaping our workplace.

Your Voice Matters:

• Attend the upcoming meetings.

• Engage in constructive dialogue.

• Raise any concerns or questions you may have.

Thank you for your dedication and commitment. Our shared efforts will shape the future of the Human Foods Program and FDA.