A federal judge has extended an order blocking the U.S. Agency for International Development’s plans to place thousands of employees on paid administrative leave, citing a potential threat to the safety of workers stationed in dangerous places around the globe. The temporary restraining order, which was set to expire this week, now extends until February 21. The decision comes as the agency faces a lawsuit alleging that its plans violate constitutional and statutory requirements.
The lawsuit, filed by labor groups and foreign aid nonprofit Oxfam, claims that the administration’s actions are creating an “information vacuum” that threatens the safety of overseas workers. The group argues that the agency is not providing adequate protections for these employees, who rely on non-salary benefits such as utilities and security warning systems.
Judge Carl Nichols extended the order after a hearing where lawyers representing the labor groups argued that they have no meaningful review options through existing administrative processes. They claim that years may pass before any conclusions are reached, leaving workers with little protection.
In contrast, attorneys for the Justice Department argue that the agency is merely complying with an executive order mandating a 90-day pause on foreign aid. However, the department was unable to provide clear answers about what would happen to non-salary benefits afforded to USAID workers overseas.
Source: https://www.govexec.com/workforce/2025/02/judge-extends-order-blocking-usaid-leave-notices-and-evacuations/403010