About 360 federal Forest Service workers in Montana laid off in a national workforce reduction might soon be back in their roles. The Merit Systems Protection Board has ordered the USDA to reinstate thousands of employees who lost their jobs last month. The layoffs were initially communicated through generic emails citing “performance” issues and claiming continued employment would not be “in the public interest.”
The USDA, the largest federal employer in Montana managing extensive lands, executed sweeping layoffs under a federal reduction plan led by Elon Musk. Many laid-off employees had just over a year in their current roles, limiting their employment protections despite their extensive experience and varied responsibilities.
Cathy Harris, chair of the Merit Systems Protection Board, responded to a claim from a forestry technician with a “fully successful” performance review, yet terminated. The case highlighted the mass email terminations. The Office of Special Counsel noted these emails were consistent across thousands of employees, claiming up to 6,000 affected nationwide.
The USDA must contact workers within five days to reinstate them until April 18, allowing time for legal review. The order is non-precedential and further compliance details are expected soon. National Federation of Federal Employees representative Robert Arnold praised the decision, hoping it leads to lasting change.
Mary Erickson, former supervisor of Custer Gallatin National Forest, reported heavy job losses in her area, criticizing the targeting of vulnerable staff. Despite exemptions, many laid-off workers served critical roles in wildfire operations. Affected employees like Allison Borges remain uncertain about returning to their jobs, as community support has its limits.
The Montana Department of Labor will hold a rapid response event on March 12, guiding affected employees on job opportunities and benefits. Eligible workers are encouraged to apply for unemployment benefits.
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