The U.S. Supreme Court has paved the way for mass layoffs across federal agencies, siding with the Trump administration in a decision that could reshape the federal workforce. In a brief unsigned order released Tuesday, the court lifted a lower court ruling that had blocked the implementation of mass firings ordered by President Trump.
The ruling stems from a February executive order by Trump directing agencies to prepare for sweeping staff reductions. Plans are already in motion to downsize the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Health and Human Services, State, Treasury, Veterans Affairs, and over a dozen others.
The Supreme Court noted that Trump is “likely to succeed” in proving his authority to issue such directives without explicit congressional approval. This comes despite a May decision by U.S. District Judge Susan Illston, who argued that the president overstepped his authority in bypassing Congress, which funds and creates federal agencies.
The administration welcomed the ruling, calling it a “definitive victory” that strengthens Trump’s push to centralize executive power and increase efficiency.
While the court’s decision removes a significant legal barrier, specific agency layoff plans may still face lawsuits, especially from unions and civil service advocates. The court did not rule on the legality of individual termination plans, leaving open future legal challenges.
This marks another key win for Trump, as the Supreme Court has recently backed his initiatives in areas like immigration and executive control.