Protecting America’s Diplomatic Workforce Act

This proposal sets guardrails on large job cuts at U.S. foreign affairs agencies. It generally blocks an agency from letting go more than 50 people in any six months unless it first explains to Congress why cuts are needed, what other options were tried (like reassigning staff), and how the cuts might affect the mission and America’s presence overseas. That explanation must come at least 20 days before notices go to employees, and the agency must brief Congress, too .

It updates how reductions in force work for the Foreign Service. When cuts happen, people compete for retention worldwide within the same rank and specialty, and decisions should be based mostly on past performance. Language skills and military preference also count. Employees should get 120 days’ notice when possible, but never less than 60 days; civil service staff at covered agencies must get at least 60 days’ notice. The bill also ensures Foreign Service employees get the same protections as civil service staff if functions are moved. Finally, the State Department must give Congress 30 days’ notice and a briefing before changing the Foreign Affairs Manual, and extend certain review timelines from 5 to 8 years .

• Who is affected: Employees at covered foreign affairs agencies, including the Foreign Service .
• What changes:
  • Limits big layoffs unless Congress gets an early, detailed explanation and briefing .
  • Sets fairer, performance-focused rules for Foreign Service layoffs, with a worldwide competition area by rank and specialty .
  • Requires 60–120 days’ notice before separation, depending on the situation .
  • Requires Congress to be notified and briefed 30 days before changes to the Foreign Affairs Manual; extends certain review periods to 8 years .
• When: These rules apply before agencies issue layoff notices or change the Foreign Affairs Manual, with the stated notice periods built in .