This is your essential briefing for the week of 20-26 July 2025. It has been a watershed week for the federal civil service. A landmark Supreme Court decision has fully unleashed the administration's workforce reduction plans, and a stunning court filing has revealed exactly which offices are in the crosshairs. Meanwhile, the massive "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" is now law, and while the worst fears about retirement cuts were not realized, its passage has sent shockwaves through the federal community. We'll break down what this all means for you, whether you’re currently serving or enjoying a hard-earned retirement. We'll also dissect three new bills in Congress that could fundamentally change how you are paid, where you work, and how your performance is measured.