Internal NFFE News
May 7, 2025
Today, the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) applauds the Rhode Island U.S. District Court for issuing a preliminary injunction on Tuesday which protects the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) from an executive order that calls for the dismantling of the agency. The court stated the executive order violates the Administrative Procedures Act, separation of powers principles, and the Take Care clause of the U.S. Constitution.
NFFE represents employees working for MBDA, who are members of NFFE Local 2. One NFFE-IAM member submitted a declaration in support of the lawsuit and others worked with counsel for the plaintiffs to provide critical evidence that the court relied on to make its initial judgement.
While the court has yet to identify the relief specific to MBDA employees, we anticipate the court will further clarify the appropriate relief very soon. Today’s ruling comes just days before MBDA leadership planned to effectuate a reduction-in-force by terminating the employment of all MBDA workers represented by NFFE. Employees received notices of a RIF last month with an effective date of May 9, 2025.
NFFE attorneys are working with MBDA employees to take all possible actions to stop the RIF from taking effect, and to return all employees to duty from administrative leave as soon as possible, among other remedies.
“NFFE-IAM members employed by MBDA value their mission and want to get back to the important work of foster the growth and competitiveness of minority-owned businesses,” said NFFE National President Randy Erwin. “Yesterday’s ruling is yet another example of the Trump Administration being held accountable for their recklessness. We look forward to more favorable decisions from the courts that protect NFFE-IAM members from the Trump Administration’s attacks. NFFE will always fight to defend our members’ jobs and their workplace rights.”