A new executive order freezes hiring for federal civilian jobs across the executive branch, barring exceptions for national security, immigration enforcement, and public safety. No vacant positions as of January 20, 2025, can be filled, and no new positions can be created. The freeze will last until a plan is developed to reduce the federal workforce, though it will remain in place for the IRS indefinitely. The order prohibits using contractors to bypass the hiring freeze but allows agencies to reallocate personnel for essential services.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/hiring-freeze