Saving NOAA’s Workforce Act

This bill would pause layoffs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Until Congress passes a full-year budget for NOAA for fiscal year 2026, the agency would not be allowed to start or carry out any reduction in force or fire career employees against their will, unless it’s for cause like misconduct, delinquency, or inefficiency.

Key points:

• Who is affected: NOAA employees in the competitive service, career employees in the excepted service, and career Senior Executive Service appointees.
• What changes: A temporary stop on layoffs and involuntary separations, except for cause.
• When: From enactment until a full-year NOAA budget for fiscal year 2026 is enacted.