Fired on Probation? A Landmark MSPB Ruling Could Change Everything
Mar 06, 2025If you were terminated while on probation, a groundbreaking ruling by the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) may signal that your firing was unlawful. Thousands of federal employees, across multiple agencies, may have been subjected to an illegal reduction in force (RIF) disguised as probationary removals.
The MSPB recently ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to reinstate nearly 6,000 employees who were terminated under a mass firing directive. The board found that these employees weren’t removed for performance issues but were secretly part of an agency-wide workforce reduction—without proper procedures.
This ruling is significant because probationary employees typically have limited appeal rights. However, the MSPB determined that USDA violated required procedures, setting a precedent that could impact other agencies that engaged in similar mass terminations.
What This Means for You
If one agency’s terminations were illegal, it’s possible others were too. The Office of Special Counsel (OSC) is currently investigating similar cases, but the window for action may be closing soon. Federal employees who were fired while on probation should take immediate steps to determine if their removal was part of an unlawful RIF.
Here’s what you can do:
✅ Identify Your Termination Circumstances: Were you let go as part of a widespread reduction? Did your agency fail to provide clear justification? These are red flags.
✅ Take Action Immediately: Probationary employees often have as little as 30 days to challenge their removals. Delaying could mean losing the opportunity to fight back.
✅ Seek Expert Guidance: Agencies are unlikely to reverse these terminations without pressure. That’s why it’s crucial to understand your rights and options.
Join Us for a Critical Breakdown
If you're a member of The Mindful Federal Employee Power Hub, join me live this Saturday at 11 AM ET as we break down:
🔹 What this ruling means for federal employees across all agencies
🔹 How to determine if your termination was an illegal RIF
🔹 The exact steps to take before time runs out
If you’re not a member yet, now is the time to join. We offer a free three-day trial, giving you immediate access to this critical session and ongoing support in navigating federal workplace challenges.
This could be a turning point for thousands of probationary employees—but only if you act quickly. Agencies won’t reverse these decisions on their own. If your rights were violated, it’s up to you to fight for them.
Join us and protect your federal career.
Stay mindful, stay informed, and take action today.