Saving the Forest Service's Workforce Act

This bill temporarily stops the U.S. Forest Service from laying off staff. Until full-year funding for the Forest Service for fiscal year 2026 is signed into law, the agency can’t start a reduction in force or force employees to leave, unless it’s for cause like misconduct, delinquency, or poor performance .

For communities, this aims to keep wildfire crews, forest managers, and support staff on the job during budget uncertainty. That means more stable wildfire response, continued trail and campground upkeep, and steadier service for permits and local projects while Congress finalizes funding .

• Who is affected: Employees of the Forest Service (including competitive service, excepted service, and senior career leaders)
• What changes: No layoffs or forced separations except for cause; existing rules for discipline still apply
• When: From now until full-year 2026 Forest Service funding becomes law