A California federal judge has issued a temporary restraining order blocking former President Donald Trump’s sweeping effort to reduce the size of the federal workforce and reorganize 21 government agencies—a move seen as a major setback for the administration’s second-term plans.

The ruling by U.S. District Judge Susan Illston comes after legal challenges from a coalition of unions, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. The judge found that the administration’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) Workforce Optimization Initiative overstepped executive authority and failed to involve Congress in the reorganization process.

Court Says Reorganization Requires Congressional Input

“The President may propose executive branch changes, but such major reorganizations require lawful processes and legislative cooperation,” Illston wrote in her order. She emphasized that previous administrations sought Congressional approval for similar changes, and Trump’s team must follow the same precedent.

The temporary restraining order, effective for 14 days, suspends all layoffs and structural changes planned under the initiative at 21 federal bodies, including the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Office of Personnel Management (OPM), and the Departments of Housing and Urban Development, Interior, and Transportation.

Illston, appointed by President Bill Clinton, further ruled that DOGE holds “no statutory authority” and called the current reorganization plans “far outside the bounds” of powers granted by Congress to OMB or OPM.

Thousands Affected, Exact Numbers Withheld

While federal job cuts have already impacted numerous departments since Trump resumed office in January, no specific data on total layoffs has been released. The blocked plans would have expanded the reductions across a wider range of agencies under a federal streamlining strategy.

The judge’s ruling also invalidated key memos from OPM and DOGE directing agencies to carry out layoffs and restructuring, pending a full hearing on May 22.

Critics Slam Plan as Disruptive and Unlawful

A joint statement by the suing coalition slammed the Trump administration’s approach as chaotic and damaging to public services:
“The federal reorganization plan created confusion and disrupted critical functions nationwide,” the group said. “We support improving government efficiency—but not through unlawful mass terminations that endanger essential services.”

They praised the court’s decision to pause the plan, citing its importance to workers and the communities they serve.

White House Silent on Ruling

The Trump administration contended that the lawsuit lacked urgency, as the Executive Order authorizing the cuts was issued nearly three months ago. However, Judge Illston dismissed that argument, stating that plaintiffs acted within reason to assess potential harm before filing suit.

As of now, the White House has not released a public statement regarding the court’s decision.