On April 17, 2025, the President issued a memorandum extending the hiring freeze for Federal civilian employees in the executive branch until July 15, 2025. This hiring freeze prohibits filling vacant positions and creating new ones, with specific exceptions outlined in the memorandum. Notably, positions related to military personnel, national security, and public safety are exempt from this freeze, allowing for necessary staffing in these critical areas.

The memorandum emphasizes that the freeze applies to all executive departments and agencies, regardless of their funding sources. Directives from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) regarding exemptions will continue to be honored. Additionally, the document allows for reallocations and reassignments of existing personnel to address priority needs without violating the freeze. The President has confirmed that essential services, such as Social Security and veterans’ benefits, will not be impacted by this hiring restriction.

Furthermore, the memorandum clarifies that it does not impede the nomination of officials requiring Presidential appointment or Senate confirmation, nor does it limit hiring where it conflicts with applicable laws. The focus on efficiency and effective use of existing personnel is emphasized, with the aim of enhancing public service delivery. Overall, this extension reflects the administration’s approach to managing the Federal workforce during a period of ongoing review and reform.

Original: article