Great Lakes Wire

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, along with a coalition of 20 attorneys general, has filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump and various federal agencies. The lawsuit challenges the legality of mass layoffs involving federal probationary employees, arguing that these terminations could impose significant burdens on states.

Nessel stated, "These mass firings are illegal and likely to cripple important federal initiatives throughout the country and in Michigan, and so we’re once again taking the White House to court." She further criticized the layoffs as being "indiscriminate" and detrimental not only to individuals but also to community programs designed to support those who have lost their jobs.

The Trump Administration's decision led numerous federal agencies to terminate thousands of probationary employees. According to termination letters from these agencies, the dismissals were attributed to unsatisfactory performance or conduct. However, the lawsuit claims these actions were part of an effort to weaken federal operations. It asserts that the administration did not adhere to laws governing large-scale federal reductions in force (RIF), which include protections for certain groups such as military veterans.

Federal regulations require advance notice when a RIF results in 50 or more layoffs, allowing states time to prepare resources for affected workers. The lawsuit alleges that no such notice was given to Michigan.

Attorney General Nessel seeks a court ruling to reinstate fired employees, halt further similar terminations, and identify those affected. Joining her in this legal action are attorneys general from Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin.