President Donald Trump's administration says federal agencies should begin planning to eliminate employee positions. The process is known as a reduction in force.

Trump's executive order that he signed with DOGE head Elon Musk specifically states agency leaders "shall promptly undertake preparations to initiate large-scale reductions in force,” or RIF. Some departments have already begun the process.

The Trump administration advanced its large-scale federal workforce downsizing, issuing guidance for agency layoffs and reorganizations. A memo from the Office of Management and Budget and the Office of Personnel Management directed agencies to conduct force reductions.

Buyout offer made to federal employees. Trump's administration offered buyouts to nearly all 2.3 million federal employees. The offer came in a surprise email that hit in

The order by Judge William Alsup, who called the OPM directive "illegal," does not reinstate any recently dismissed government employees, but it could affect future attempts at firings.