Impact and Justification
The plans to lay off approximately 7,000 probationary employees across the , starting Thursday, affecting those with about a year or less of service, primarily in compliance departments.
These layoffs are part of the Trump administration's broader effort to reduce the federal workforce, targeting probationary employees who lack civil service protection, despite recent IRS efforts to combat high-wealth tax evaders.
Administration and Controversy
In addition to layoffs, the Trump administration plans to reassign IRS workers to assist the with immigration enforcement, as requested by DHS Secretary .
The decision has raised concerns about the potential impact on tax collection services and the upcoming tax season, amidst reports of IRS staffing shortages and challenges in hiring and retaining employees.