Memorandum on Ensuring Accountability and Prioritizing Public Safety in Federal Hiring

On July 7, 2025, President Donald J. Trump issued a "Memorandum on Ensuring Accountability and Prioritizing Public Safety in Federal Hiring." This action provides direction to executive branch agencies regarding federal civilian hiring. Generally, it prevents federal civilian positions that are currently vacant from being filled, and new positions from being created, unless specific exceptions are met or required by law. It also states that any hiring must align with a Merit Hiring Plan issued earlier by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and prohibits contracting outside the federal government to circumvent its intent.

This memorandum applies broadly to most executive departments and agencies. However, it includes several exceptions, such as military personnel, positions related to immigration enforcement, national security, or public safety, and the Executive Office of the President. It also ensures that the provision of Social Security, Medicare, or veterans healthcare or benefits will not be negatively impacted. The Director of OPM can still grant exemptions, and certain types of appointments, like those requiring Presidential appointment or Senate confirmation, are not restricted.

The stated purpose of this memorandum is to ensure accountability and prioritize public safety in federal hiring. It aims to guide agencies on their priorities and how they implement hiring procedures. The President's authority to direct executive branch operations, like through this memorandum, is based on Article II of the Constitution. Such memoranda

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