By the authority vested in him as President, Donald J. Trump has issued a memorandum to guide the hiring of Federal civilian employees within the Executive Branch through October 15, 2025. The directive states that no currently vacant Federal civilian positions may be filled, nor new positions created, unless specified otherwise in the memorandum or required by applicable law.
The policy mandates that any hiring must align with the Merit Hiring Plan issued by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) on May 29, 2025. This plan was developed pursuant to Executive Order 14170 signed on January 20, 2025, aimed at reforming the federal hiring process and restoring merit to government service.
Certain exceptions are outlined within this memorandum. It does not apply to military personnel or positions related to immigration enforcement, national security, or public safety. These categories do not require review by OPM. Additionally, it does not affect Social Security, Medicare, or veterans' healthcare or benefits provisions.
The Director of OPM retains authority to grant necessary exemptions from this policy. Hires approved in writing by executive department heads or appointed officials may proceed after a copy of such approval is transmitted to OPM. Exemptions previously granted remain effective unless withdrawn by OPM.
Contracting outside the Federal Government as a means to bypass this memorandum's intent is prohibited.
Agencies are instructed to use existing personnel and funds efficiently while improving public services and delivery thereof. The memorandum allows for staff reallocations or reassignments necessary for meeting priority needs and maintaining essential services while protecting national security and public safety.
The directive also clarifies that it does not restrict appointments requiring Presidential appointment or Senate confirmation nor appointments under certain non-career positions if approved by an agency head appointed by the President.
Furthermore, this memorandum does not override any collective bargaining agreements in effect as of its date of issuance.
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