House Budget Plan May Put Employee Benefits on Table for Cuts

House Budget Plan May Put Employee Benefits on Table for Cuts

The House Budget Committee has approved a budget outline that would require substantial cuts to numerous government programs, including most likely federal employee retirement and health insurance benefits.

The budget “resolution” now moves to floor voting in the House, where it would take virtual unanimity among Republicans to pass—which has not been the case in the recent past years—and then approval by the Senate. Follow link to read more from FEDweek. https://bit.ly/3D1mMnO

 

Are You A Fired Federal Employee? Here Are Resources to Help You Get Back On Your Feet

Are You A Fired Federal Employee? Here Are Resources to Help You Get Back On Your Feet

If you’re freaking out because you’re one of the tens of thousands of federal employees who recently received a pink slip, there’s help for you, experts say. With the proper mindset and guidance, workers can retake control of their situation, they said.

“Figuring out what to do next after losing your job can feel incredibly daunting,” said Harshal Varpe, career expert at job site Indeed. “The first thing you need to do is make a short-term plan. Follow link to read more from USA Today. https://bit.ly/4i8uQCF

Recession Watch: Trump Layoffs, Other Acts, And The Economic Forecast

Recession Watch: Trump Layoffs, Other Acts, And The Economic Forecast

President Trump has made major policy changes in the first few weeks of his second term. Amid the political upset, some people worry that the U.S. economy could go into recession as a result of tariffs, deportations and mass layoffs of federal employees. The recession scenario seems unlikely at this point, but we have great uncertainty about what exactly will happen. Follow link to read more from Forbes. https://bit.ly/4hKRwbH

Government-wide Firing of Probational Employees Causes Dismay

Government-wide Firing of Probational Employees Causes Dismay

The 2025 Executive Order concerning the firing of probationary federal employees builds upon earlier initiatives aimed at reforming the federal workforce. This order reinforces the ability of federal agencies to rapidly terminate employees who are still in their probationary period, further streamlining the dismissal process.

The intent behind this executive order is to enhance accountability and efficiency within federal agencies. By allowing quicker terminations of underperforming employees during their probation, the order seeks to promote a higher standard of performance and reduce bureaucratic inertia.

Supporters of such measures argue that they create a more effective government by ensuring that only capable individuals remain in federal positions. However, critics often worry that these actions could undermine job security and lead to an environment where employees may be hesitant to report misconduct or express differing opinions, fearing retaliation.

Source: CBS News https://bit.ly/3Qryon8

Big Changes Coming to the Thrift Savings Plan in 2026

Big Changes Coming to the Thrift Savings Plan in 2026

Roth TSP conversions will arrive in 2026. Who stands to benefit the most?

In November, TSP officials announced a major update that will impact all 4.1 million account holders starting in 2026: the introduction of in-plan Roth TSP conversions. But what does this mean for you and other participants? Let’s break it down.

What Is a Roth TSP Conversion?

A Roth TSP conversion allows TSP participants to move funds from their Traditional TSP to their Roth TSP—also known as an in-plan conversion. Click link to read more from FedSmith. https://www.fedsmith.com/2025/02/13/big-changes-coming-to-tsp-in-2026/