On July 9, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision that could mark a turning point in the history of American public service. The Court lifted a block previously imposed by lower courts on the Trump administration’s plan for mass layoffs of federal employees. This ruling paves the way for the potential dismissal of hundreds of thousands of civil servants nationwide, including agencies like the Department of Agriculture, Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This plan, dubbed "One Big Beautiful Budget," was introduced as part of a broader strategy to reform the federal government, reduce its size, and improve operational efficiency. Administration representatives argue that the current bureaucracy is bloated, and the layoffs are necessary for budget sustainability. However, critics warn these measures will hit the most vulnerable populations and degrade public services. Especially concerning are layoffs in FEMA and the National Weather Service amid recent natural disasters like the devastating floods in Texas. Legal experts debate whether the decision disrupts the balance of power by granting excessive authority to the executive branch. In response, Democratic lawmakers aim to push legislation restricting such executive actions without congressional approval. Public sector unions and advocacy organizations are preparing appeals, while many federal workers face uncertainty about their employment status. This decision is pivotal not only for domestic governance but also signals the U.S. government's readiness to take radical economic measures, impacting labor markets, public trust, and international relations. Sources: theguardian.com, nypost.com, ft.com