The U.S. District Court in Maryland has ordered the reinstatement of certain USCIS employees terminated on February 14, 2025. Affected employees will be entitled to a paid administrative leave, with necessary paid and benefits upon resumption. However, employees who are now uninterested in resuming at their duty posts are requested to submit a written statement declining reinstatement.
The order, which was issued on March 13, 2025, instructed the reinstatement of specific individuals who were relieved of their duties on February 14th, 2025, put the USCIS on their toes as they have worked towards executing this order.
Efforts in Contacting Affected Individuals
Following the court’s ruling, USCIS has worked relentlessly to reach out to all affected individuals whose contracts were terminated as part of the February 14 decision. All those who believe this order is connected to them but are yet to receive any form of communication from the USCIS are advised by the USCIS to reach out promptly via email.
Additionally, affected individuals are required to make available the following information: Full name, Date of termination, and any other identifying factor which may include but not limited to; Date of birth, social security number, in a safe, password-protected file. If available, it is advisable to attach a copy of your termination letter as proof.
Reinstatement Details and Administrative Leave
USCIS has announced that all affected persons under the February 14 dismissal would resumed duties by March 17, 2025. In addition, affected employees would be placed on a paid administrative leave without active duty. This paid leave would not affect the employee’s annual or sick leave benefits. Employees’ pay and benefits will commence upon resumption, with all federal requirements, including ethical obligations, still intact.
Employees who are unwilling to return to duty are required to provide a written statement indicating their decision to decline the reinstatement. However, this does not affect their ability to resign voluntarily from their position at any time.
Looking Ahead: USCIS To Reinstate Employees Following Courts Temporary Restraining Order
With the implementation of this court order, USCIS is dedicated to ensuring all affected employees are properly reinstated and informed of their respective rights and responsibilities. As this process unfolds, further updates are expected on how it impacts not just those directly involved, but also the overall functioning of USCIS operations.
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