ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Maryland, alongside 19 other states, is taking legal action against various federal agencies, alleging that President Donald Trump’s administration has unlawfully fired numerous federal probationary employees. Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown is spearheading the coalition of attorneys general in a federal lawsuit that was recently filed in Maryland. The state estimates that approximately 10% of households in Maryland rely on federal government wages.
Governor Wes Moore, a Democrat, expressed concern on Friday, stating, “The severe actions taken by the Trump-Vance Administration could result in significant job losses, disruption of hundreds of thousands of lives, and the loss of tens of millions of dollars in income here in Maryland.” In support of the complaint, Brown has filed for a temporary restraining order in federal court in Maryland, seeking to halt further firings of federal probationary employees and to reinstate those who have been terminated.
The lawsuit argues that the mass terminations will place considerable financial burdens on the states, as they will have to support the newly unemployed individuals and process claims for unemployment assistance. Additionally, the layoffs are expected to impact state finances due to decreased tax revenue. Brown emphasized that President Trump’s actions are detrimental to hardworking families and the civil service, violating federal laws and blindsiding Maryland.
Trump has defended the firings as part of an effort to combat fraud, waste, and abuse in the federal government. The administration, led by adviser Elon Musk, has targeted both new and longstanding employees for termination, instructing agency leaders to prepare for significant reductions in force. This purge has sparked legal challenges from unions and attorneys general questioning the administration’s authority.
The lawsuit alleges that the firings were carried out without following proper procedures for large-scale reductions in force as mandated by federal laws and regulations. These regulations typically require considerations such as an employee’s tenure, performance, and veteran status when making termination decisions, along with a 60-day advance notice in the event of a reduction in force.
The attorneys general are seeking reinstatement for the terminated employees and restitu
Cease additional layoffs of federal workers. Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin have also joined the legal case. Additionally, the District of Columbia is a party to the lawsuit.
