Podcasts about National Treasury Employees Union

Administrative Law: May courts enjoin the President from dismantling of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau? - Argued: Fri, 16 May 2025 13:0:16 EDT

National Treasury Employees Union v. Russell Vought

Last week, President Trump escalated his administration's war on the federal workforce and workers' rights when he signed an executive order to end collective bargaining with federal labor unions across the government. The National Treasury Employees Union, which represents 150,000 government employees, has sued the Trump administration over the executive order.In response to these intensifying assaults on federal workers, agencies, and critical programs like Social Security, unions, social justice and community organizations, veterans groups, and people of conscience will be participating in protest actions in locales across the US on Saturday, April 5. In this episode, we speak with James Jones, a maintenance mechanic with the National Park Service, a veteran, and a member of the Federal Unionists Network, to get a firsthand account of the Trump administration's attacks on federal workers, agencies, and the people who depend on their services.Additional links/info: Federal Unionists Network website Indivisible website “Hands Off!” National Day of Action (April 5) website Joe DeManuelle-Hall, Labor Notes, “Trump Goes Nuclear on the Federal Workforce” Tyler Pager, The New York Times, “Trump Moves to End Union Protections Across Broad Swath of Government” Daniel Weissner, Reuters, “Union Sues to Block Trump from Ending Collective Bargaining for Many federal workers” Anjeanette Damon, ProPublica, “Curious How Trump's Cost Cutting Could Affect Your National Park Visit? You Might Not Get a Straight Answer” Maximillian Alvarez, Working People / The Real News Network, “‘It's not Elon versus government, it's Elon versus everyone': A dire warning from fired federal workers” Permanent links below… Leave us a voicemail and we might play it on the show! Labor Radio / Podcast Network website, Facebook page, and Twitter page In These Times website, Facebook page, and Twitter page The Real News Network website, YouTube channel, podcast feeds, Facebook page, and Twitter page Featured Music… Jules Taylor, “Working People” Theme Song Studio Production: Maximillian Alvarez Post-Production: Jules Taylor

Last week, President Trump escalated his administration's war on the federal workforce and workers' rights when he signed an executive order to end collective bargaining with federal labor unions across the government. The National Treasury Employees Union, which represents 150,000 government employees, has sued the Trump administration over the executive order.In response to these intensifying assaults on federal workers, agencies, and critical programs like Social Security, unions, social justice and community organizations, veterans groups, and people of conscience will be participating in protest actions in locales across the US on Saturday, April 5. In this episode, we speak with James Jones, a maintenance mechanic with the National Park Service, a veteran, and a member of the Federal Unionists Network, to get a firsthand account of the Trump administration's attacks on federal workers, agencies, and the people who depend on their services.Additional links/info:Federal Unionists Network websiteIndivisible website“Hands Off!” National Day of Action (April 5) websiteJoe DeManuelle-Hall, Labor Notes, “Trump Goes Nuclear on the Federal Workforce”Tyler Pager, The New York Times, “Trump Moves to End Union Protections Across Broad Swath of Government”Daniel Weissner, Reuters, “Union Sues to Block Trump from Ending Collective Bargaining for Many federal workers”Anjeanette Damon, ProPublica, “Curious How Trump's Cost Cutting Could Affect Your National Park Visit? You Might Not Get a Straight Answer”Maximillian Alvarez, Working People / The Real News Network, “‘It's not Elon versus government, it's Elon versus everyone': A dire warning from fired federal workers”Permanent links below…Leave us a voicemail and we might play it on the show!Labor Radio / Podcast Network website, Facebook page, and Twitter pageIn These Times website, Facebook page, and Twitter pageThe Real News Network website, YouTube channel, podcast feeds, Facebook page, and Twitter pageFeatured Music…Jules Taylor, “Working People” Theme SongStudio Production: Maximillian AlvarezPost-Production: Jules TaylorBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-news-podcast--2952221/support.

This Day in Legal History: National Referendum on ApartheidOn March 17, 1992, South Africa took a decisive step toward dismantling apartheid through a historic national referendum. White South African voters were asked whether they supported the government's efforts to end apartheid and negotiate a new, democratic constitution. An overwhelming 68.7% voted in favor, signaling broad support for ending over four decades of racial segregation. This referendum provided then-President F.W. de Klerk with the political mandate to continue negotiations with the African National Congress (ANC) and other groups. The result was a major victory for the anti-apartheid movement, which had long fought against the country's system of institutionalized racial oppression.The referendum was limited to white voters, who had historically benefited from apartheid, making their approval a crucial moment in South African history. It paved the way for the country's first multiracial elections in 1994, in which Nelson Mandela was elected president. With this, South Africa officially transitioned from an apartheid state to a democracy, enshrining equal rights for all citizens. The vote also marked the beginning of legal reforms that led to the adoption of a new constitution in 1996. While the end of apartheid did not immediately erase economic and social inequalities, the referendum remains a defining moment in the country's legal and political history. It demonstrated that legal systems, even when designed to uphold injustice, can be reformed through democratic means.A federal judge ruled that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) must reinstate probationary employees it had recently terminated. As a result, the agency is bringing back those workers, along with most term employees, and providing them with back pay. However, term employees with more than two years of service were not reinstated. The CFPB had initially fired 70 enforcement attorneys and up to 100 other employees after acting Director Russell Vought took over in February. The judge's decision is part of a broader legal battle over federal workforce reductions, with similar rulings affecting multiple agencies. Despite this setback, the Trump administration remains committed to deep staffing cuts across federal agencies, with reduction plans already submitted to the Office of Personnel Management. The firings had faced opposition from the National Treasury Employees Union, which reached an agreement with the CFPB to pause additional terminations while another court considers an injunction. The reinstatement process has been messy, with workers unsure of their status and vendor contracts disrupted. However, legally mandated CFPB functions, such as consumer response, are being prioritized for restoration.CFPB Brings Back Probationary Employees After Judge's RulingTrump has escalated his attacks on major law firms, this time targeting Paul Weiss, a firm known for representing top financial institutions and engaging in high-profile pro bono work. His executive order directs federal agencies to cut ties with companies that are Paul Weiss clients and suspend the firm's lawyers' security clearances. The move follows similar actions against Perkins Coie and Covington & Burling. Paul Weiss has deep ties to Wall Street, with clients including JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Apollo Global Management. Some of these corporate leaders have criticized Trump's tariff policies, potentially influencing his decision to go after the firm.Trump's order highlights Paul Weiss's past work, including its involvement in a lawsuit against the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers over the January 6 Capitol riot. The firm has a long history of civil rights advocacy, from Brown v. Board of Education to LGBTQ+ and voting rights cases. Critics argue Trump's actions are politically motivated, targeting firms with Democratic connections while ignoring their bipartisan donor base. A federal judge previously blocked a similar order against Perkins Coie, and Paul Weiss is expected to mount a strong legal challenge. However, even if the order is overturned, the chilling effect is real—firms risk losing business from clients wary of crossing Trump. Some industry experts believe this could push law firms to unite against political interference, but whether collective action emerges remains uncertain.Trump Fights Paul Weiss as Wall Street Seeks President's EarTrump targets law firm Paul Weiss in order restricting government access | ReutersThe Trump administration deported hundreds of Venezuelan migrants despite a federal judge's order blocking the move. The deportations targeted alleged members of the Tren de Aragua gang, whom the administration labeled as “terrorists.” The White House dismissed the court's authority, arguing that a single judge could not override the president's powers on immigration and national security. Judge James Boasberg had ruled that Trump's use of the Alien Enemies Act to justify the deportations was unlawful, as the law applies only to conflicts “commensurate to war.” Despite this, flights carrying the migrants landed in El Salvador, where President Nayib Bukele publicly mocked the judge's ruling and confirmed the men were being imprisoned.Legal experts, including the ACLU, argue the administration is in open defiance of the court and may have violated constitutional checks and balances. The White House claimed that some migrants had already been deported before the judge's order, but it remains unclear if others were removed afterward. Critics see this as an unprecedented challenge to judicial authority, while Trump defended the deportations, calling the migrants "bad people" and insisting the situation amounted to war. The legal battle over these actions is expected to continue, with calls for the U.S. government to reverse any unlawful removals.Trump administration deports Venezuelans despite court order, says judge has no authorityThe White House is taking an unprecedented role in overseeing the sale of TikTok's U.S. operations, with Vice President JD Vance leading the process. Instead of a traditional investment bank managing the auction, Vance's legal team is directly engaging with bidders and advising on their offers. President Trump has emphasized his control over the sale, claiming multiple groups are interested, while also suggesting the U.S. government could take a 50% stake in TikTok's American assets.The sale process is highly unusual, lacking a defined valuation or clear asset structure, and ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese parent company, has shown minimal engagement. Potential buyers, including investors like Frank McCourt and Kevin O'Leary, face an April 5 deadline to reach a deal. However, Beijing's involvement and the possibility that ByteDance could simply shut down TikTok in the U.S. add further uncertainty.While the U.S. government has previously intervened in corporate deals for national security or economic stability reasons, experts question whether TikTok meets such criteria. Trump, who initially sought to ban TikTok, has since acknowledged its role in helping him gain young voters. The app's sale price remains uncertain, largely depending on whether its valuable recommendation algorithm is included. With intense competition among bidders and political interests shaping the process, the outcome remains unpredictable.The White House's unusual role as dealmaker in TikTok sale | ReutersIn a piece I wrote for Forbes this weekend, I lay out what I reckon is the Trump administration's plan to dismantle Social Security and Medicare. The Trump administration's proposal to eliminate taxes for individuals earning under $150,000 sounds appealing at first but carries severe consequences. Social Security and Medicare rely heavily on payroll taxes, which most workers in this income range pay more than income taxes. If these taxes are removed, the programs will be starved of funding, leading to either massive deficit spending, extreme benefit cuts, or a shift to regressive taxes like sales taxes. The proposal, combined with extending the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), would disproportionately benefit the wealthy while leaving the middle class to shoulder the remaining tax burden. The TCJA already made corporate tax cuts permanent while setting individual cuts to expire by 2025, favoring the rich. If this new plan moves forward, those earning just above $150,000 could become the last major tax-paying bracket, while state and local taxes would likely rise to compensate. The ultra-wealthy, who benefited the most from previous tax cuts, are unlikely to pick up the slack. Rather than a tax break for workers, the proposal appears to be a backdoor attempt to dismantle entitlement programs. If no one is paying in, no one gets benefits out—a reality Trump's allies don't want to admit.Trump Administration's No Taxes Under $150k Proposal Is A Disaster This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

In this urgent episode of Working People, we focus on the Trump-Musk administration's all-out assault on federal workers and its takeover and reordering of our entire system of government. “At least 20,000 federal workers have so far been fired by the Trump administration,” Ed Pilkington and Chris Stein report in The Guardian, “most of them recent hires on probationary periods who lack employment protections. In addition, the White House claims that more than 75,000 employees have accepted its offer of deferred resignations. The purge has prompted speculation that Trump is engaging in one of the biggest job cutting rounds in US history, which could have a powerful knock-on effect on the American economy.” In today's episode, we take you to the front lines of struggle and hear directly from three federal workers about what is happening inside the federal government, why it concerns all of us, and how federal workers and concerned citizens of all stripes are fighting back. Panelists include: Cat Farman, president of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Union, Local 335 of the National Treasury Employees Union; Jasmine McAllister, a rank-and-file CFPB Union member and data scientist who was illegally fired two weeks ago; and Will Munger, a rangeland scientist who works across the intermountain west and who, until this month, served as a postdoctoral researcher with the USDA Agricultural Research Service.  Additional links/info:  CFPB Union website,  Federal Unionists Network website, Bluesky page, and Instagram   5Calls.Org website  Ed Pilkington & Chris Stein, The Guardian, “US personnel office walks back email ultimatum from Musk to workers” Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “Elon Musk is making technofascism a reality before our eyes” Democracy Now!, “‘Grand Theft Government': Federal workers send SOS over Musk's DOGE, mass firings & service cuts” Emily Anthes & Apoorva Mandavilli, The New York Times, “Mass federal firings may imperil crops, cattle and pets” Permanent links below… Leave us a voicemail and we might play it on the show! Labor Radio / Podcast Network website, Facebook page, and Twitter page In These Times website, Facebook page, and Twitter page The Real News Network website, YouTube channel, podcast feeds, Facebook page, and Twitter page Featured Music… Jules Taylor, “Working People” Theme Song   Studio Production: Maximillian Alvarez Post-Production: Jules Taylor

The Supreme Court is still sitting on its (tiny) hands, but trial judges are holding strong against the Trump administration's assault on the rule of law. We'll talk about the pushback to Trump's anti-trans executive orders, his assault on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and the effort to ensure that the Dear Leader can fire watchdogs at will. Plus subscribers get a deep dive on trial judges attempting to SCOTUS-proof their rulings to protect trans kids.   Links:   Dellinger v. Bessent [District Court Docket via Court Listener] https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69624836/dellinger-v-bessent   Dellinger v. Bessent [SCOTUS Docket] https://www.supremecourt.gov/search.aspx?filename=/docket/docketfiles/html/public/24a790.html   National Treasury Employees Union v. Vought [Docket via Court Listener] https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69624423/national-treasury-employees-union-v-vought/    Jones v. Bondi  [Docket via Court Listener] https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.277335   Washington v. Trump [Docket via Court Listener] https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69620657/state-of-washington-v-trump/   PFLAG v. Trump [Docket via Court Listener] https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69614668/pflag-inc-v-donald-j-trump/   Seila Law v. CFPB [SCOTUS Opinion] https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/19pdf/19-7_new_bq7d.pdf   Corporate Transparency Act, 31 USC § 5336 https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/31/5336   Show Links: https://www.lawandchaospod.com/ BlueSky: @LawAndChaosPod Threads: @LawAndChaosPod Twitter: @LawAndChaosPod  

In this urgent episode of Working People, we focus on the Trump-Musk administration's all-out assault on federal workers and its takeover and reordering of our entire system of government. “At least 20,000 federal workers have so far been fired by the Trump administration,” Ed Pilkington and Chris Stein report in The Guardian, “most of them recent hires on probationary periods who lack employment protections. In addition, the White House claims that more than 75,000 employees have accepted its offer of deferred resignations. The purge has prompted speculation that Trump is engaging in one of the biggest job cutting rounds in US history, which could have a powerful knock-on effect on the American economy.” In today's episode, we take you to the front lines of struggle and hear directly from three federal workers about what is happening inside the federal government, why it concerns all of us, and how federal workers and concerned citizens of all stripes are fighting back. Panelists include: Cat Farman, president of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Union, Local 335 of the National Treasury Employees Union; Jasmine McAllister, a rank-and-file CFPB Union member and data scientist who was illegally fired two weeks ago; and Will Munger, a rangeland scientist who works across the intermountain west and who, until this month, served as a postdoctoral researcher with the USDA Agricultural Research Service. Additional links/info: CFPB Union website, Federal Unionists Network website, Bluesky page, and Instagram  5Calls.Org website Ed Pilkington & Chris Stein, The Guardian, “US personnel office walks back email ultimatum from Musk to workers”Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “Elon Musk is making technofascism a reality before our eyes”Democracy Now!, “‘Grand Theft Government': Federal workers send SOS over Musk's DOGE, mass firings & service cuts”Emily Anthes & Apoorva Mandavilli, The New York Times, “Mass federal firings may imperil crops, cattle and pets”Permanent links below…Leave us a voicemail and we might play it on the show!Labor Radio / Podcast Network website, Facebook page, and Twitter pageIn These Times website, Facebook page, and Twitter pageThe Real News Network website, YouTube channel, podcast feeds, Facebook page, and Twitter pageFeatured Music…Jules Taylor, “Working People” Theme SongStudio Production: Maximillian AlvarezPost-Production: Jules TaylorBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-news-podcast--2952221/support.

A federal judge in Washington on Thursday denied a request by federal worker unions to halt the firing of probationary workers in the U.S. government, saying the court likely lacks the authority to hear the claims. Instead, the claims brought by the National Treasury Employees Union and others must be brought before the Federal Labor Relations Authority, Judge Christopher Cooper of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia said in his opinion. The ruling is a blow to efforts by unions to protect their members from the mass probationary employee firings taking place across the government, as well as from further efforts by the Trump administration to reduce the size of the federal workforce. The Department of Transportation has tapped the chief technology officer of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to be its new chief information officer, according to an update to the agency's site. Pavan Pidugu started as DOT's new CIO this week, replacing Cordell Schachter, who left the role last month. Pidugu spent nearly five years as CTO at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, which focuses on preventing injuries and deaths in the trucking industry. Prior to his work in the federal government, Pidugu held several digital project management roles at Walmart and Target. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

Absence of Madison bus drivers on February 20 looks like a labor action from drivers and mechanics working without a contract, SWIU Wisconsin rallies for Meriter nurses during their contract talks and for UW Health and GHC workers who are organizing, chaotic federal funding cuts affect Head Start, US Forest Service workers facing Trump purges speak at the Madison Labor Temple, the National Treasury Employees Union pushes back on the Trump-Musk cuts, the Labor Temple has a workshop on fighting back against corporate power, Amazon workers vote against a union in Carolina, and Costco raises non-union wages,

Absence of Madison bus drivers on February 20 looks like a labor action from drivers and mechanics working without a contract, SWIU Wisconsin rallies for Meriter nurses during their contract talks and for UW Health and GHC workers who are organizing, chaotic federal funding cuts affect Head Start, US Forest Service workers facing Trump purges speak at the Madison Labor Temple, the National Treasury Employees Union pushes back on the Trump-Musk cuts, Amazon workers vote against a union in Carolina, and Costco raises non-union wages,

Layoffs at the IRS in Ogden started Wednesday and 100 employees could be terminated as soon as this week. Utah's Morning News spoke with Krystal Kirkpatrick with the local chapter of the National Treasury Employees Union to learn more.

A new lawsuit from the National Treasury Employees Union challenges a major government move. Could we soon see the end of the American penny? President Trump says it cost too much to make. And a once-thriving factory that produced millions of pounds of French fries is now closed, leaving an entire town facing an uncertain future.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Day in Legal History: Birth of EdisonOn February 11, 1847, Thomas Edison was born, eventually becoming one of the most prolific inventors in history. While best known for innovations like the phonograph and the incandescent light bulb, Edison's impact extended beyond technology—he played a major role in shaping intellectual property law. Over his lifetime, he was granted 1,093 U.S. patents, making him one of the most successful patentees in American history. His aggressive pursuit of patent protection and enforcement helped define modern patent law, particularly in the fields of invention ownership and licensing.  Edison was no stranger to legal battles. He frequently sued competitors for patent infringement, ensuring that his company, General Electric, maintained control over key technologies. One of his most significant legal disputes involved motion picture technology. His company used patents to create a near-monopoly on filmmaking equipment, leading to the formation of the Motion Picture Patents Company (MPPC), also known as the Edison Trust. This organization aggressively enforced its patents, preventing independent filmmakers from using essential equipment without licensing fees.  However, Edison's legal tactics also sparked resistance. Independent filmmakers and rival inventors challenged his monopolistic control, leading to court rulings that gradually weakened the MPPC. In 1915, a federal court ruled against Edison's film patents, breaking up his trust and setting a precedent for future antitrust actions in the entertainment industry. Edison's extensive use of patent law demonstrated both its protective power and its limits, influencing later legal battles over intellectual property. His legacy continues to shape debates over patent rights, innovation, and monopolistic practices in technology and media.The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) was established in 2010 to oversee financial institutions and protect consumers from abusive practices. It played a key role in regulating mortgage lenders, payday loan companies, and credit reporting agencies, introducing rules against predatory lending, deceptive banking fees, and unfair debt collection practices. The agency was instrumental in holding financial institutions accountable after the 2008 financial crisis, issuing billions in fines and refunds for consumers.Over the weekend, the CFPB was effectively shut down under the leadership of acting chief Russell Vought, who suspended all oversight activities, halted its funding, and closed its headquarters. His actions were met with swift legal challenges from the National Treasury Employees Union, which argued that gutting the agency violated congressional authority. Critics condemned the move as a severe rollback of consumer protections, leaving banks and lenders without federal oversight.The agency's dismantling has also raised concerns about conflicts of interest. Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) was granted administrative access to CFPB systems, a controversial move given that Musk's platform, X, is looking to enter financial services. Union officials claim Musk is trying to take control of his own regulator. The situation has drawn protests from agency workers and legal threats from advocacy groups who argue the actions amount to a systematic effort to remove consumer protections.Consumer protection agency neutralized by Trump's new chief | ReutersA federal judge declined to block Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing the U.S. Department of Labor's systems, dealing an early blow to unions opposing his efforts to shrink the federal workforce. The lawsuit, brought by the AFL-CIO, argued that Musk could gain access to sensitive government investigations into his own companies—Tesla, SpaceX, and The Boring Company—as well as information about competitors. However, U.S. District Judge John Bates ruled that the union had not yet demonstrated harm, though he expressed concerns about the situation.AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler called the decision a setback but vowed to present stronger evidence. Critics argue that Musk's access to government data, including labor investigations and economic statistics, poses a serious conflict of interest. The White House maintains that Musk will recuse himself from matters involving his businesses, but as a special government employee, he is not subject to full federal ethics rules.DOGE's growing authority has sparked alarm, with unions and advocacy groups challenging its reach. Another lawsuit has temporarily halted DOGE's access to Treasury Department records over concerns about unauthorized data sharing. Meanwhile, Musk has already moved to shutter the U.S. Agency for International Development, canceling contracts and leases as part of his broader push to restructure federal agencies.Judge declines to block DOGE from Labor Department systems | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

This Day in Legal History: 25th Amendment to the US Constitution On February 10, 1967, the 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, establishing clear procedures for presidential succession and addressing concerns about vacancies in the executive branch. The amendment was a response to historical ambiguities in presidential succession, particularly after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. Prior to its ratification, the Constitution provided little guidance on what to do if a president became incapacitated. The amendment formally allowed the vice president to assume the presidency if the president died, resigned, or was removed from office. It also established a process for filling a vacant vice presidency, a critical change since several vice presidents had died or resigned without a designated replacement mechanism. Additionally, it provided a procedure for a president to temporarily transfer power to the vice president, such as in cases of medical procedures. The amendment's fourth section allowed for the removal of a president deemed unable to discharge the duties of the office, though this provision has never been invoked. The first use of the amendment came in 1973 when Vice President Spiro Agnew resigned, and President Nixon appointed Gerald Ford as his replacement. The amendment was invoked again in 1974 when Nixon resigned, making Ford the first unelected president in U.S. history. Since then, the temporary transfer of power provision has been used several times for medical reasons, including during surgeries for Presidents Reagan, George W. Bush, and Biden. The 25th Amendment remains a critical safeguard, ensuring stability and continuity in the executive branch.A federal judge has temporarily blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing certain Treasury Department data and ordered the destruction of information already obtained. The ruling follows a lawsuit filed by 19 Democratic-led states against President Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, alleging that allowing Musk's team access to personal financial data violates federal law. The judge found the states likely to succeed on the merits and cited risks of data exposure and hacking. The lawsuit argues that the administration implemented the policy without public explanation or a privacy impact assessment, violating the Administrative Procedure Act. The order prevents Treasury from granting access to unqualified individuals and mandates background checks for those with clearance. Meanwhile, a separate lawsuit filed by unions has also led to a temporary restriction on access to Treasury systems. The White House defended DOGE's role as a government efficiency initiative, while critics, including Senator Ron Wyden, accused the administration of misleading Congress about the extent of Musk's involvement. A hearing is set for February 14 to determine whether a longer injunction will be issued.Musk's DOGE Blocked From Treasury Data in State AGs Lawsuit (1)The Justice Department is shifting resources from traditional priorities like counterterrorism and white-collar crime to focus on immigration enforcement under President Trump. Prosecutors are being reassigned to border districts, and the FBI's joint terrorism task forces have been directed to assist with immigration initiatives. Additionally, US Marshals and DEA agents now have the authority to make immigration arrests. Attorney General Pam Bondi has ordered investigations into sanctuary jurisdictions and instructed DOJ units to prioritize foreign bribery cases linked to cartels over other white-collar crimes. Critics, including congressional Democrats, warn that diverting resources in this way could increase crime and weaken national security. Legal experts argue that pulling experienced prosecutors for immigration cases carries a steep opportunity cost, while counterterrorism specialists say their methods are not suited for handling migration. The move reflects a broader effort by the Trump administration to maximize the DOJ's role in immigration enforcement early in the new term, learning from past efforts to reshape asylum law and border policies.Border Focus Pulls DOJ Resources From Terrorism, White CollarA U.S. judge will soon decide whether President Trump's buyout offer to two million federal workers can proceed. The plan, which offers employees pay through September if they resign now, has been challenged by federal workers' unions, arguing that Congress has not approved funding for it. Overseen by Elon Musk and his newly created Department of Government Efficiency, the initiative is part of Trump's broader effort to downsize the federal government. Democrats and unions have raised concerns over Musk's growing influence and DOGE's access to sensitive government data. While 65,000 employees have reportedly accepted the buyout, unions warn that the administration may not honor the deal. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has already faced shutdown-like actions, with staff ordered to stop work and the agency temporarily closed. Meanwhile, Trump has hinted at further cuts, including in the Pentagon, as legal challenges continue to mount against his sweeping restructuring efforts.Judge to review Trump's buyout offer to government workers | ReutersThe Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has been effectively shut down under the leadership of acting chief Russell Vought, who ordered staff to halt all regulatory activities and cut the agency's funding. The move eliminates federal oversight of financial companies, drawing sharp criticism from consumer advocates and Democratic lawmakers. The National Treasury Employees Union sued to block Vought's actions, arguing they undermine Congress' authority. Critics also raised concerns about Elon Musk's involvement, as his Department of Government Efficiency has gained administrative access to CFPB systems, despite Musk's business interests in the financial sector. Agency employees and unions accuse Musk of trying to take control of his own regulator. Vought also ordered the agency's headquarters to close for a week and shut down public communications. The shutdown is part of Trump and Musk's broader effort to restructure the federal government, prompting legal challenges and public protests.Consumer protection agency neutralized by Trump's new chief | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

The National Treasury Employees Union last year managed to get itself established as the bargaining unit for attorneys in two Justice Department division. The Civil Rights and Environmental and Natural Resources Division. Earlier this month, attorney Jeffrey Morrison challenged NTEU in an application for review before the Federal Labor Relations Authority. He got free help from the National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation. The Foundation president, Mark Mix, joins me now with details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The National Treasury Employees Union last year managed to get itself established as the bargaining unit for attorneys in two Justice Department division. The Civil Rights and Environmental and Natural Resources Division. Earlier this month, attorney Jeffrey Morrison challenged NTEU in an application for review before the Federal Labor Relations Authority. He got free help from the National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation. The Foundation president, Mark Mix, joins me now with details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the first week of the Trump administration, one agency under contention didn't quite surface, namely, the IRS, but Congress cut $20 billion from IRS supplemental funding in 2023 and another $20 billion in the latest continuing resolution. The National Treasury Employees Union says those funds are key to rebuilding taxpayer services. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman, spoke with NTEU national president Doreen Greenwald. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the first week of the Trump administration, one agency under contention didn't quite surface, namely, the IRS, but Congress cut $20 billion from IRS supplemental funding in 2023 and another $20 billion in the latest continuing resolution. The National Treasury Employees Union says those funds are key to rebuilding taxpayer services. Federal News Network's Jory Heckman, spoke with NTEU national president Doreen Greenwald. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

British Rule over America failed nearly 250 years ago, in part when the British Monarchy thought they would impose a tax on tea. The revolt was called the Boston Tea Party. The rest is history. Historically, America has blossomed under less taxes. It's hysterical to think that the National Treasury Employees Union is a prime example of the Deep State AGAIN closing ranks to protect their 'gravy train'. Elon Musk cut Twitter jobs by 80%. Musk says he'll volunteer to do the same to Washington D.C. when Trump gets in. These 80,000+ IRS agents will cost American taxpayers $80 billion. This is pathetic testimony of the Democrats and the Democrat Party. NOW GO VOTE !NEWSMAX's Bianca De La Garza Asks Gene About Harris's Last Ditch EffortsGene Valentino on Newsmax NewslineORIGINAL MEDIA SOURCE(S):Originally Recorded on September 24, 2024America Beyond the Noise: Season 5, Episode 545Image courtesy of: NEWSMAX➡️ Join the Conversation: https://GeneValentino.com➡️ WMXI Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/NewsRadio981➡️ More WMXI Interviews: https://genevalentino.com/wmxi-interviews/➡️ More GrassRoots TruthCast Episodes: https://genevalentino.com/grassroots-truthcast-with-gene-valentino/➡️ More Broadcasts with Gene as the Guest: https://genevalentino.com/america-beyond-the-noise/ ➡️ More About Gene Valentino: https://genevalentino.com/about-gene-valentino/

More than 700 former ambassadors, high-ranking Department of Defense and Department of State officials, and military brass in the National Security Leaders for America endorsed Kamala Harris and belittled Donald Trump. So did the National Treasury Employees Union, which includes IRS workers. It's pretty clear which candidate is the choice of the DC Establishment.  Also ... The post Deep State Officials Endorse Kamala, Disparage Trump appeared first on The New American.

Oklahoma Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin joins Fox Across America With Jimmy Failla to recount how former President Trump helped broker a truce between himself and Teamsters President Sean O'Brien. Jimmy explains how Vice President Kamala Harris receiving endorsements from the National Security Leaders for America and the National Treasury Employees Union should tell you everything you need to know about which candidate the establishment prefers in this election. PLUS, Fox News Real Estate contributor Katrina Campins stops by to talk about how the housing market will be impacted by the outcome of the election. [00:00:00] Establishment lines up behind Kamala [00:37:55] AOC wants to police speech online [00:56:22] Senator Markwayne Mullin [01:14:40] Update on the Mark Robinson scandal [01:33:20] Katrina Campins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The National Treasury Employees Union says CBP's staffing model shows it's already short 5,850 officers, even before the retirement wave hits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The National Treasury Employees Union says CBP's staffing model shows it's already short 5,850 officers, even before the retirement wave hits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President of the National Treasury Employees Union, Doreen Greenwald, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about funding of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and potential cuts to the agency. She also discussed adequately funding the government through the IRS and why the government is dealing with a workforce deficit. Pat Gallagher, President of the North Coast Area Labor Federation, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the relationship between the United Steelworkers and U.S. Steel. Gallagher also questioned the legitimacy of Nippon Steel purchasing U.S. Steel and explained his belief that Chinese steel dumping is threatening the American steel industry.

With labor and management leaders preparing to sit down at the bargaining table, hundreds of employees at the Federal Housing Finance Agency may soon see changes in their workplace. Pay equity, employee engagement and the creation of a clear grievance procedure are top of mind for Nathan Watkins, president of the nearly brand-new bargaining unit under the National Treasury Employees Union. “It was almost exactly two years ago that a small group of employees, including myself, reached out to a couple of national unions trying to form a chapter at FHFA,” Watkins said in an interview. “We wanted, first and foremost, to give employees a voice.” The organization campaign for FHFA, a small financial regulatory agency with a staff of a little over 700 employees, culminated in an overwhelmingly majority vote to unionize in August 2023. FHFA employees voted 254-24, or 91%, in favor of the union's establishment. Currently, the bargaining unit represents about 500 employees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With labor and management leaders preparing to sit down at the bargaining table, hundreds of employees at the Federal Housing Finance Agency may soon see changes in their workplace.Pay equity, employee engagement and the creation of a clear grievance procedure are top of mind for Nathan Watkins, president of the nearly brand-new bargaining unit under the National Treasury Employees Union.“It was almost exactly two years ago that a small group of employees, including myself, reached out to a couple of national unions trying to form a chapter at FHFA,” Watkins said in an interview. “We wanted, first and foremost, to give employees a voice.”The organization campaign for FHFA, a small financial regulatory agency with a staff of a little over 700 employees, culminated in an overwhelmingly majority vote to unionize in August 2023. FHFA employees voted 254-24, or 91%, in favor of the union's establishment. Currently, the bargaining unit represents about 500 employees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

(1/12/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Postmaster General DeJoy rejoices over new package-business customers. The National Treasury Employees Union sounds the alarm over a potential government shutdown. And with a partial government shutdown a week away, the Senate considers a short-term continuing resolution. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

(1/12/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Postmaster General DeJoy rejoices over new package-business customers. The National Treasury Employees Union sounds the alarm over a potential government shutdown. And with a partial government shutdown a week away, the Senate considers a short-term continuing resolution. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Day in Legal History: The Embargo Act On this day in legal history, December 22 marks the passage of the Embargo Act in 1807, a significant legislative maneuver influenced by President Thomas Jefferson. This act emerged against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars in Europe, a tumultuous period marked by widespread conflict and political upheaval. Jefferson, keen on maintaining American neutrality and avoiding the perils of war, saw the Embargo Act as a strategic tool to prevent American involvement.The Act prohibited trade with all foreign nations, a sweeping measure aimed at deterring any actions that could entangle the United States in European conflicts. It represented a bold assertion of American sovereignty, illustrating a preference for isolation over the potential risks of international engagement. The law was designed to leverage American trade as a means of peacekeeping, hoping that economic pressure would encourage European powers to respect American neutrality.However, the Embargo Act's broad scope led to significant challenges in enforcement. Its restrictions created substantial economic hardships, particularly for American merchants and sailors who relied heavily on international trade. The Act inadvertently harmed the very citizens it aimed to protect, leading to widespread criticism and opposition.The economic repercussions were immediate and severe, sparking significant distress in the maritime economy, especially in the New England states. The law not only disrupted commerce but also instigated a rise in smuggling and illicit trade, as merchants sought to circumvent the restrictions. This unintended consequence highlighted the difficulties in enforcing such an extensive trade ban.The political fallout from the Embargo Act was also notable. It fueled domestic tensions, exacerbating regional divides and contributing to a growing discourse on states' rights and federal power. The Act became a focal point of political debate, with Jefferson's opponents using it to question the wisdom and efficacy of his administration's policies.Recognizing the impracticality and unpopularity of the Embargo Act, the U.S. government moved to replace it with the Non-Intercourse Act in 1809. This new legislation was a more targeted approach, specifically barring trade only with France and Great Britain, the primary belligerents in the European conflicts. The Non-Intercourse Act sought to address the deficiencies of its predecessor, aiming for a more sustainable balance between diplomatic caution and economic necessity.In retrospect, the Embargo Act of 1807 stands as a testament to the complexities of foreign policy and the challenges of balancing national interests with global engagement. It reflects an era of American history where isolationism and neutrality were key themes in the nation's approach to international affairs. Despite its shortcomings, the Act is an important chapter in the legal and political history of the United States, illustrating the ongoing struggle to navigate the treacherous waters of international relations. Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison has signed the largest commercial lease in the U.S. this year, committing to a 20-year agreement for 765,000 square feet across 18 floors at 1345 Avenue of the Americas in Midtown Manhattan. This move is part of a broader trend in New York City, where law firms, alongside the financial sector, have been notably active in expanding their office spaces, as evidenced by a significant increase in the proportion of leases being expansions compared to the previous year. The firm's move, leaving its nearly 30-year-old location at 1285 Avenue of the Americas, reflects the growing dynamism and spatial demands of law firms in the city.Paul Weiss NYC Move Is Largest Commercial Lease in US This YearSupreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas is facing increasing calls for recusal from cases involving former President Donald Trump's attempts to overturn the 2020 election results, particularly in light of his wife's active participation in challenging the election. These calls have intensified as pivotal Jan. 6-related cases approach the Supreme Court. The new Supreme Court code of ethics, which emphasizes a justice's need to recuse if their impartiality might reasonably be questioned, particularly when a justice's spouse is significantly involved in a case, adds weight to these requests.Justice Thomas, appointed by former President George H. W. Bush, is known for his reluctance to bow to criticism. However, the involvement of his wife, Virginia Thomas, in efforts to overturn the 2020 election, including her presence at the pro-Trump rally before the Jan. 6 Capitol attack and her correspondence with Trump's former Chief of Staff, raises serious concerns about his impartiality. Despite these concerns, Thomas has not publicly addressed his wife's involvement and has not responded to requests for comment.Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Richard Blumenthal and several House Democrats, have urged Thomas to recuse himself, citing the potential conflict of interest. The situation is unprecedented, with significant implications for Trump's eligibility for the 2024 presidential race and the broader question of presidential immunity from prosecution. While some Democratic senators have expressed concern, Thomas's supporters argue that his recusal is unnecessary. Notably, Thomas recused himself from one Jan. 6 case involving former Trump adviser John Eastman, but has otherwise shown resistance to recusal demands. The situation remains tense, with concerns about the impact on democracy and the integrity of judicial proceedings.Supreme Court's Thomas Faces Recusal Calls in Trump Jan. 6 CasesRudy Giuliani, the former Mayor of New York, has filed for bankruptcy following a $148 million judgment against him in a defamation case involving two former Georgia election workers. Giuliani, renowned for his leadership after the 9/11 attacks and later as former President Donald Trump's lawyer, claimed assets between $1 million and $10 million against liabilities of $100 million to $500 million. This bankruptcy filing comes amid his criminal charges in Georgia and is seen as a strategy to appeal the penalty and manage other debts.Giuliani's spokesperson argued that the punitive amount was beyond his capacity to pay. The bankruptcy process typically allows for debt reorganization or elimination, but in this case, it might not absolve Giuliani of the defamation penalty due to the nature of his conduct, which judges have deemed "willful and malicious." The defamation case arose from Giuliani's false accusations of election fraud against Wandrea "Shaye" Moss and her mother, Ruby Freeman, leading to severe threats against them.Despite admitting to defamation in court, Giuliani continued making these claims, resulting in a second lawsuit from Moss and Freeman. A federal judge has ordered immediate payment to the plaintiffs, citing risks of Giuliani concealing assets. The bankruptcy filing lists several creditors, including Hunter Biden and Noelle Dunphy, the latter suing Giuliani for sexual assault, harassment, and wage theft.Apart from personal liabilities, Giuliani faces lawsuits from Smartmatic and Dominion Voting Systems for claims about vote flipping in the 2020 election. His law license has been suspended in New York, and he faces disbarment in Washington. The bankruptcy filing is a significant turn in Giuliani's career, from being Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2001 and a Republican presidential candidate to facing multiple legal and financial challenges.Giuliani seeks bankruptcy after $148 million judgment in defamation case | ReutersDonald Trump's recent promise to reintroduce Schedule F, an executive order granting him the power to overhaul the federal workforce, has sparked significant opposition from unions, Democrats, and watchdog groups. They fear this move would enable Trump to replace tens of thousands of government civil servants with loyalists and implement his far-right policies, should he win the 2024 presidential election. This plan is seen as a step towards politicizing the federal bureaucracy and potentially steering it towards autocracy.In response, opponents are gearing up for legal challenges and strategic preparations. The Biden administration is considering a rule change that would make it harder for Trump to reintroduce Schedule F by allowing federal employees to retain their employment protections even if their job classifications change. This rule, expected by spring 2024, could delay but not entirely block Trump's efforts.Currently, presidents can appoint thousands of political appointees, but the career civil service, consisting of about two million workers, remains unaffected. Schedule F would change this, enabling the firing of up to 50,000 civil servants. Legal fights are anticipated, with unions and watchdogs ready to sue Trump if he follows through on his promise. The National Treasury Employees Union previously sued Trump over this issue, and groups like the American Federation of Government Employees are prepared to litigate again.Trump's supporters, including some conservative judges, argue for broad presidential powers to fire government workers. Trump has used his campaign rallies to promise an overhaul of the "deep state," a term used by conspiracy theorists to describe a supposed clandestine network within the government. He has vowed to pass reforms allowing the president to fire any executive branch employee.Other Republican presidential candidates, such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, support similar policies. Critics like U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen are actively working to protect government workers from such potential actions, emphasizing the need to safeguard the government from being used to advance personal agendas or vendettas.Trump plan to gut civil service triggers pushback by unions, Democrats | Reuters Get full access to Minimum Competence - Daily Legal News Podcast at www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

The union that represents about 65,000 IRS employees is teaming up with the agency to help attract new talent amid a hiring spree. The Democrats' tax-and-climate law gave the IRS tens of billions to dollars to modernize and go after taxpayers who haven't been paying what they owe. To do that, the IRS needs to build up its workforce, but it is competing with the more-lucrative private sector. That's where the National Treasury Employees Union is stepping in. Bloomberg Tax reporter Erin Slowey spoke with NTEU National President Doreen Greenwald about what the union is doing to negotiate benefits and flexibilities that make it more attractive to come work at the IRS, and why it's important to have a fully funded agency. She also warned about what a possible shutdown in early 2024 would do to the current and prospective workforce. Do you have feedback on this episode of Talking Tax? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

She spent 20 years as a revenue officer at the IRS. Then she went into union work, serving for 14 years as president of a local in Wisconsin. Now she's the new national president of the National Treasury Employees Union. Federal Drive Host Tom Temin was joined in studio by Doreen Greenwald. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

She spent 20 years as a revenue officer at the IRS. Then she went into union work, serving for 14 years as president of a local in Wisconsin. Now she's the new national president of the National Treasury Employees Union. Federal Drive Host Tom Temin was joined in studio by Doreen Greenwald. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this day in legal history, September 29, 1983, the War Powers Act was invoked for the first time – by President Ronald Reagan in order to keep a U.S. Marine presence in Lebanon.On September 29, 1983, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 270 to 161 to invoke the War Powers Act concerning the deployment of American Marines in Lebanon for an additional 18 months. The resolution had bipartisan support, including from President Reagan. This marked the first time the House invoked the War Powers Act, a law designed to limit the President's war-making powers, which was enacted a decade earlier. The Senate would go on to approve the resolution.President Reagan thanked the House for its bipartisan vote, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the legislative and executive branches. However, the vote also revealed concerns among lawmakers about the U.S.'s role in the Middle East and the potential for the Marines to be drawn into a larger conflict. Some representatives warned that the resolution was tantamount to a declaration of war and could result in American casualties.The debate in the House was marked by a sense of urgency but also caution. Lawmakers were torn between the risks of pulling out and staying in Lebanon, with some describing it as a "very unhappy choice." Despite reservations, the prevailing sentiment was that Congress had to back the resolution to support the President during a crisis.The War Powers Act mandates that the President must notify Congress when American troops face combat and withdraw them within 60 to 90 days unless Congress authorizes their continued deployment. Interestingly, President Reagan had not made such a notification, but the compromise resolution asserted the Act's applicability, making Reagan the first President to acknowledge its validity. This failure to abide by the initial notification requirement, coupled with the later request for an extension, in full light of history, was a major step forward in placing the power to declare war in the office of the presidency.At the time, the Senate was also debating an amendment requiring more detailed reporting from the President on the Marines' mission in Lebanon. The House had rejected a similar amendment, which would have postponed a decision on the Marines' future for 60 more days. The debate touched on the balance of power between Congress and the President, the definition of success in Lebanon, and the long-term implications of U.S. involvement in the Middle East. In the ensuing 40 years, every president has either explicitly or tacitly leaned on the War Powers Act to substantiate action abroad. By way of brief background, the War Powers Resolution mandates that the U.S. President can only deploy armed forces abroad through a formal declaration of war by Congress, "statutory authorization," or in the event of a national emergency caused by an attack on the U.S. or its armed forces. The President must notify Congress within 48 hours of committing troops to military action and cannot keep them deployed for more than 60 days without an additional 30-day withdrawal period, unless Congress authorizes the use of military force or declares war. The resolution was enacted by a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate, overriding President Richard Nixon's veto. Despite its provisions, allegations have been made that the resolution has been violated in the past, such as George W. Bush's invasion of Iraq in 2003 and Bill Clinton's involvement in the NATO bombing of Yugoslavia in 1999. While Congress has disapproved of these incidents, no successful legal actions have been taken against any President for such alleged violations.Suffolk University Law School in Boston has a significant impact on the Massachusetts legal landscape despite its lower ranking in national lists. As of 2021, the school is the leading source of judges in the state, contributing 118 out of 440 judges on the Massachusetts bench. Additionally, three of the seven justices on the state's highest court and Judge Gustavo Gelpí of the US Court of Appeals for the First Circuit are Suffolk alumni. High-profile roles in the state, such as the Secretary of State and Chief Public Defender, are also filled by Suffolk graduates.However, Suffolk Law ranks fifth in the Boston area and falls in the bottom third nationwide, according to U.S. News & World Report. Despite this, the school has a high retention rate for local graduates, which is crucial for Boston's legal market that faces competition from larger cities like New York and Washington, D.C. In 2022, 73% of Suffolk Law graduates took their first-year job in Massachusetts, a higher percentage than graduates from Boston University, Northeastern, and Boston College law schools.The school's strong presence in the state judiciary and public service sectors has created a cycle that attracts students interested in these fields. For example, state Sen. John Cronin chose Suffolk for its reputation in producing practice-oriented lawyers with distinguished careers in public service. The school's curriculum focuses on experiential programs, allowing students to gain real-world experience.Suffolk Law School also addresses a growing need in Boston's legal market by training scientists to become lawyers for biotech clients. The school offers a nighttime program in intellectual property law, attracting individuals with doctorates in science. Firms like Foley Hoag LLP and Foley & Lardner LLP have hired these specialists and sponsored their education at Suffolk's evening program.In summary, Suffolk University Law School plays a pivotal role in Massachusetts' legal ecosystem, particularly in the judiciary and public service sectors, despite its lower national ranking. Its strategic programs and high local graduate retention rate make it a cornerstone in the state's legal community. It stands as a clear example of the shortcomings and difficulties in trying to reduce a school's educational worth to a hierarchical ranking scale. Underdog Boston School Churns Out Judges, Big Law Partners (1)The IRS has released a plan outlining its operations in the event of a government shutdown, which appears increasingly likely if Congress fails to reach a funding agreement by October 1. The plan involves furloughing approximately 60,000 IRS employees, a change from last year's contingency plan. About one-third of the workforce will continue to work, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, special compliance funding, and user fees. Essential functions like mail processing, criminal law enforcement, disaster relief transcript processing, and income verification for mortgage lenders will continue.However, the IRS will halt all audit functions, return examinations, non-automated collections, and will not answer taxpayer phone calls. Doreen Greenwald, President of the National Treasury Employees Union, expressed concern over the stress and financial insecurity that furloughed IRS workers would face. She also warned that a shutdown could exacerbate the agency's existing backlog by preventing new hires.Initial discussions had suggested that the IRS would remain fully operational by using funds from the Democrats' Inflation Reduction Act, which are not subject to annual appropriations and are available until September 2031. During the last government shutdown in 2018-2019, many IRS operations were halted, but tax refund checks would have been issued if the shutdown extended into tax-filing season. Eileen Sherr of the American Institute of CPAs advised taxpayers to use e-filing for error-free and direct-deposit refunds, as these will be the only ones processed during a shutdown.IRS to Partially Close, Furlough Staff in Federal Shutdown (2)A National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) judge has ruled that Starbucks violated federal labor law by increasing wages and benefits only for employees in non-unionized stores across the U.S. This marks the first nationwide ruling against Starbucks, which has been resisting a wave of unionization for the past two years. The judge, Mara-Louise Anzalone, stated that Starbucks engaged in a "corporate-wide effort to manipulate its employees' free choice" by tying their pay and benefits to their willingness to avoid organizing. The ruling orders Starbucks to compensate thousands of unionized workers who were unlawfully denied increased wages and benefits.This decision is significant as it is the first to find Starbucks in violation of labor laws on a nationwide scale, as opposed to previous rulings that were limited to individual stores. The unionization campaign against Starbucks has led to nearly 350 organized cafes in 37 states, and the NLRB has filed almost 100 complaints against the company. Of these, at least 75 are still pending.Starbucks has publicly denied any legal wrongdoing and argued that increasing pay for unionized workers would itself be illegal, as federal law prohibits unilateral changes to union workers' conditions. However, Judge Anzalone dismissed this argument, stating it wasn't made in good faith. She also ruled that Starbucks' actions illegally discouraged other workers from joining the union. While the judge did not order additional training for Starbucks managers on labor laws, she did mandate that the CEO read a notice of employee rights to U.S. workers and post it in every store.Starbucks Illegally Kept Wages, Benefits From Union Workers (1)The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) has enough funds to continue operations for about three months in the event of a government shutdown. The agency plans to use its $1.04 billion operating reserves to cover patent and trademark expenses. The PTO is primarily self-funded through patent and trademark filing fees but still requires annual appropriations from Congress. In the past, the PTO has remained open during government shutdowns, including the 35-day shutdown from December 2018 to January 2019.However, some patent attorneys have expressed concerns about the PTO's long-term ability to function if appropriations are not made. The agency's financial stability during short-term shutdowns is a change from the past when Congress would divert part of the PTO's revenue to fund other government activities. Although a provision to prevent such diversion was removed from the America Invents Act of 2011, Congress has since committed not to divert PTO fees.Legal practitioners seem largely unconcerned about a potential shutdown affecting the PTO, as the agency has successfully weathered past shutdowns. The Patent Public Advisory Committee and PTO officials have planned for such contingencies by increasing the reserve fund. If a shutdown were to last beyond the reserve's capacity, most PTO employees would be furloughed, and the agency's regional offices would close.A prolonged shutdown could also affect the rulemaking process, including proposed changes to the Patent Trial and Appeal Board and requests for comment on artificial intelligence issues. Other agencies involved in the rulemaking process, like the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, could be impacted by furloughs. Finally, while the PTO would continue to collect fees, it would not be able to use those funds without congressional authority.Patent Office Has Funds to Stay Open Three Months Amid ShutdownThe U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear a case involving Zackey Rahimi, who argues that his Second Amendment rights were violated by a law preventing individuals under a domestic violence restraining order from owning firearms. This case could have broader implications for where guns can be carried, including in malls and parks. The court's decision will be its first opportunity to clarify its 2022 ruling in New York State Rifle & Pistol Ass'n v. Bruen, which has led to varying interpretations in lower courts.In Bruen, the Supreme Court established that the government must prove a law restricting gun access aligns with the nation's historical tradition of firearm regulation. However, this has led to inconsistent rulings, as judges lack clear guidance on how closely a modern law must resemble historical laws to pass constitutional muster. The ambiguity has particularly affected laws prohibiting gun possession in "sensitive places" like parks and libraries.Judges have been divided on what counts as a "sensitive place," leading to contrasting rulings. For example, a New Jersey judge ordered the state to stop enforcing provisions that prohibit gun possession in parks and libraries, while a similar challenge in New York received the opposite treatment. Legal experts anticipate that the Rahimi case could provide much-needed clarity on how to apply the Bruen test.If the court sides with Rahimi, it could have far-reaching implications for existing gun legislation, including laws about carrying firearms in "sensitive places." The case also raises questions about linking modern rights to historical contexts that did not contemplate contemporary issues, such as domestic violence, which was not prosecuted as a crime until the late 20th century.New Supreme Court Case a Test for Carrying Guns in Malls, Parks Get full access to Minimum Competence - Daily Legal News Podcast at www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Newly elected National President for the National Treasury Employees Union, Doreen Greenwald, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about her newly elected role and some of the tasks that come with it. Greenwald also talked about the IRS and what a shutdown would look like for thousands of employees. Independent labor voice Tom Buffenbarger, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the United Autoworkers negotiations with the Big Three Automakers in Detroit. Buffenbarger also discussed the potential government shutdown, and also shared his memories of the Steelworkers Tom Conway following his tragic passing.

On this day in legal history, September 19, 2002, President Bush wrote Congress and requested authority to invade Iraq.On September 19, 2002, President George W. Bush submitted a resolution to Congress seeking authorization to use "all means he determines to be appropriate, including force" to disarm Iraq and remove Saddam Hussein from power. This move came amidst escalating international tensions and Bush emphasized that if the UN Security Council failed to address the issue, the US and its allies would take action. The day saw intense activities with Secretary of State Colin Powell and Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld presenting the administration's stance to Capitol Hill, where it received a generally supportive response, albeit with anticipated changes in the wording of the resolution.Meanwhile, at the UN, Iraq's foreign minister read a defiant letter from Hussein, denying the possession of weapons of mass destruction and criticizing the US for creating a crisis. The proposed resolution, drafted by White House officials, was based on the principle of "anticipatory self-defense," allowing the US to preemptively attack a nation perceived as a threat. Despite the aggressive stance, some congressional leaders expressed reservations, preferring a resolution urging UN intervention and highlighting the risks of unilateral action. The day marked a major step towards the Iraq War, with discussions revolving around the potential repercussions and the extent of the president's authority in initiating military action.We all know how it turned out, there were no weapons of mass destruction and nearly a half million Iraqi civilians and 5,000 American soldiers died in the war.The Silicon Valley-based law firm Cooley has announced Rachel Proffitt as its upcoming CEO, marking the first time a woman will hold this position in the firm. Proffitt, who currently leads Cooley's San Francisco corporate practice and is a member of the board of directors, will assume her new role on January 1, 2024, succeeding Joe Conroy, the firm's leader since 2008. Conroy will retain his position as chairman. Proffitt joined Cooley in 2017 and has a notable 21-year career in corporate and securities law, working extensively with various companies and investment firms across different sectors.Recently, she played a significant role in advising Maplebear Inc. on a substantial initial public offering. Despite facing challenges due to a downturn in the transactional sector, Conroy remains optimistic about the firm's growth prospects, anticipating a surge in demand and overall growth. The succession process, which began in 2022, involved extensive consultations with over 300 partners to ensure a smooth transition. As CEO, Proffitt aims to enhance the firm's culture and adapt to the changing needs of their dynamic client base, emphasizing innovation and strategic foresight for the future.Cooley's Rachel Proffitt Will Become Its First-Ever Female CEOThe IRS is expected to remain operational even if a government shutdown occurs later this month, utilizing funds from President Joe Biden's tax-and-climate law, according to Doreen Greenwald, the president of the National Treasury Employees Union. This union, representing around 65,000 IRS employees nationwide, is awaiting the final plan from the Treasury Department. The current strategy mirrors last year's contingency plan, which allocated nearly $80 billion to the IRS for various improvements, although a portion of this fund was withdrawn earlier this year due to an agreement between Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.As the end of the month approaches, the potential for a government shutdown is increasing due to ongoing disputes among House Republicans regarding broader funding issues. A vote is anticipated this week on a House GOP proposal to extend government funding by another month, which includes a temporary 8% reduction in spending on domestic agencies and resuming border wall construction. If an agreement is not reached to fund the government through September's end, a shutdown will ensue, reminiscent of the 2018-2019 period when the IRS had to suspend many of its operations, aggravating existing backlog and customer service problems.IRS to Stay Open in Government Shutdown, Early Talks Suggest (1)Banks and debt collectors have cautioned the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) against imposing specific regulations on medical credit cards, a financial tool often used by patients to settle healthcare bills. These entities argue that the CFPB lacks the jurisdiction to govern these products, emphasizing that they function similarly to other financing products in different sectors. They also warned that excessive regulation might deter individuals from undergoing necessary yet costly medical procedures.Trade groups, including the Bank Policy Institute and Consumer Bankers Association, have noted that the term "medical payment product" is not distinctly defined in the market and that the CFPB possibly lacks the authority to regulate medical providers as indicated in their recent requests for information (RFI) and other communications. The market for these credit cards is primarily controlled by three companies: CareCredit, Wells Fargo & Co., and Comenity. Despite concerns over potential debt accumulation due to deferred interest features of these products, groups like the American Dental Association advocate for their role in facilitating necessary treatments for those without immediate funds. Meanwhile, consumer advocates and non-profit organizations urge the CFPB to enhance transparency and regulations surrounding these products to prevent uninformed financial decisions and potential debt pitfalls.Banks Warn CFPB to Back Off on Scrutiny of Medical Credit CardsCitigroup Inc. has launched Citi Token Services, a new feature aimed at providing digital assets to its institutional clientele. This service, part of the firm's treasury and trade solutions division, converts customers' deposits into digital tokens that can be transferred globally in real-time. The tokens, which are processed on a blockchain managed by Citigroup, represent a claim against the bank, facilitating instant settlement. Clients can access this service through the bank's existing systems without needing a separate digital wallet.This initiative is Citigroup's response to the challenges of cross-border money transfers, which are often delayed due to various banking systems and different working hours globally. The bank recently participated in a test of a Regulated Liability Network, proving the efficiency of digital dollars in enhancing wholesale payments without altering the legal status of the deposits. This development comes as JPMorgan Chase & Co. is also considering a blockchain-based digital deposit token to expedite cross-border transactions, pending regulatory approval.Citigroup is focusing initially on the trade finance sector, particularly the shipping industry, which has been hindered by manual processes and paperwork. The introduction of smart contracts, which automatically process transactions when predetermined terms are met, could significantly speed up transactions, eliminating the need for physical paperwork. The bank has successfully trialed this service with a canal authority and A.P. Moller-Maersk A/S, demonstrating the potential for instantaneous tokenized deposit transfers to suppliers.Citi Debuts Token Service in Latest Foray Into Digital AssetsIn today's column, I highlight the escalating housing costs in the US , with a significant increase of 47.5% in the average home sale price from Q4 2020 to Q4 2022. This surge has particularly impacted buyers in the mid-range and working-class sectors. I suggest that the current property tax assessments are inequitable, often favoring higher earners by undervaluing expensive properties and overvaluing less costly ones.To address this, I propose the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies to facilitate annual and accurate property assessments by municipalities, thereby preventing the overvaluation of properties owned by individuals who are less financially equipped to bear the burden. AI can harness vast amounts of data to make annual adjustments to property assessments, eliminating biases and identifying correlations between property demographics for prioritized reassessment. Moreover, AI can analyze various data, including historical trends and satellite imagery, to estimate real-world market values more accurately.In the column I emphasize the necessity for a comprehensive overhaul of the current system to foster accuracy and fairness in property valuations, thereby promoting a society where opportunities and burdens are equitably distributed. As is so often the case, the current status quo favors the wealthy–with more expensive properties typically undervalued and less expensive properties routinely overvalued. The integration of technology, coupled with appropriate policies, can potentially offer precise and unbiased property valuations, balancing individual privacy, administrative overhead, and tax equity. Let's Use AI and Property Tax Reform to Alleviate Housing Costs Get full access to Minimum Competence - Daily Legal News Podcast at www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Tony Reardon, the National President of the National Treasury Employees Union, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about his upcoming retirement. Reardon shared highlights from his time in charge and moments that had a lasting impact on him. Director of the United Steelworkers District 1, Donnie Blatt joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Ohio's special election in August. Blatt also talked about the work the rapid response team is doing to educate registered voters and the cost to Ohio taxpayers to hold this special election.

Unverified claims that the IRS plans to hire a horde of weapon-carrying agents are putting agency employees at risk, said Tony Reardon, longtime leader of the National Treasury Employees Union. "It places them squarely in danger," Reardon said, referring to charges from Republican politicians that thousands of armed agents would soon be probing Americans' finances as a result of tax-and-climate law funds. Reardon, who's worked at NTEU for more than three decades and was first elected national union president in 2015, is set to retire in August. NTEU represents about 65,000 IRS employees as well as workers at dozens of other departments and agencies. On this week's episode of Talking Tax, he talks with Bloomberg Tax reporter Naomi Jagoda about a range of topics, including how things have changed for IRS employees over the years and how the IRS can improve recruitment and retention. Do you have feedback on this episode of Talking Tax? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

After 33 years of working for the National Treasury Employees Union, its president, Tony Reardon, is calling it a career. He'll retire in August, when his term as president concludes. Before that, he joined the Federal Drive in studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After 33 years of working for the National Treasury Employees Union, its president, Tony Reardon, is calling it a career. He'll retire in August, when his term as president concludes. Before that, he joined the Federal Drive in studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A more “challenging landscape” on Capitol Hill, now with a partisan divide between the White House and Congress, has propelled the National Treasury Employees Union, for one, to become even more vocal on its latest set of legislative priorities. At the top of the federal union's list of concerns is securing a sizeable pay raise for federal employees next year. Although the 4.6% raise in 2023 was the largest in about 20 years, NTEU National President Tony Reardon said the boost didn't align with the original expectation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A more “challenging landscape” on Capitol Hill, now with a partisan divide between the White House and Congress, has propelled the National Treasury Employees Union, for one, to become even more vocal on its latest set of legislative priorities. At the top of the federal union's list of concerns is securing a sizeable pay raise for federal employees next year. Although the 4.6% raise in 2023 was the largest in about 20 years, NTEU National President Tony Reardon said the boost didn't align with the original expectation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

National Treasury Employees Union National President Tony Reardon joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and spoke about the need to grow the Internal Revenue Service following more than a decade of downsizing. He then discussed an attempt by Repubilcans to repeal portions of the Inflation Reduction Act. Reardon then compared a proposed pay raise for federal employees to the wages of those in the private sector with similar jobs.   Scott Slawson, President of the United Electrical, Radio, and Machine Workers of America Local 506, appeared on the AWF Union Podcast and urged Class 1 railroad carriers to embrace the “Green Locomotive.” He explained the possible reasons why railroads continue to use locomotives that do not meet emissions standards and debunked misconceptions about going “green.” 

Federal employees' wages are falling further behind those in the private sector, according to new data from the Federal Salary Council.The council reported that in 2022, federal workers earned 24.09% less in wages alone than their private sector counterparts. In 2021, the pay gap by the same measurement was 22.47%. In comparison, the Biden administration's federal pay raise request is 4.6% for next year, composed of a 4.1% overall increase and a 0.5% pay locality increase. The National Treasury Employees Union, in light of the council's report, reemphasized its push for an even larger federal pay increase in 2023.

In today's Federal Newscast, federal employees are seeing a growing gap in salary compared with the private sector.

Tea leaves indicate a 4.6% pay raise for federal employees next year. House Democrats are pushing for 5.1%. At least one big union says that given inflation that's not enough. Is 4.6 or 5.1 only the starting point? Federal News Network's Drew Friedman put that question to the president of the National Treasury Employees Union, Tony Reardon.

In today's Federal Newscast, employees at the Bureau of Land Management's headquarters vote to receive union coverage.

On today's episode of The Daily Scoop Podcast, FedScoop's Dave Nyczepir breaks down what he sees in the new White House budget request. The new Federal IT Dashboard from the General Services Administration is up and running. Dave Powner, executive director of the Center for Data-Driven Policy at MITRE and former director of IT Issues at the Government Accountability Office, discusses what's important about the newest iteration of the dashboard. Federal employees would get a 4.6% pay raise in the budget proposal the White House released Monday. Tony Reardon, president of the National Treasury Employees Union, discusses why he thinks the 4.6% number is a good starting point but expresses his desire for a higher average pay raise for federal employees. He also touches on return to office plans across government and the future workplace. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every weekday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify and Stitcher. And if you like what you hear, please let us know in the comments.

On today's episode of The Daily Scoop Podcast, the Department of Labor is planning to modernize all of its legacy telecommunications and IT services through five new Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions (EIS) task orders. David Hawkings, Senior Editor, American Leader, joins the podcast to give a breakdown of the latest developments from Capitol Hill as a government shutdown approaches. Max Stier, President and CEO, Partnership for Public Service, explains challenges to the return to office for federal workers and highlights some of the achievements by the federal government during the shift to remote work during the pandemic. Tony Reardon, National President, National Treasury Employees Union, shares some of the worries federal workers have about returning to the office, more than just the office itself. You can read the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force's guidance about vaccines here. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every weekday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify and Stitcher. And if you like what you hear, please let us know in the comments.

The Office of Personnel Management is attempting to reassure federal employee unions: Those long-awaited paid parental leave benefits will be ready on time and as intended. The National Treasury Employees Union had raised some doubts about OPM's plans for paid parental leave. Federal News Network's Nicole Ogrysko joins me now to explain the debate and what feds might be able to expect with the new benefit.