The executive order freezes the hiring of federal civilian employees and prevents new positions from being created, except for certain exceptions. The freeze applies to all executive departments and agencies and will remain in effect unless a plan is submitted within 90 days outlining measures to reduce the size of the federal workforce through efficiency improvements and attrition.
Exceptions to the freeze include military personnel, positions related to immigration enforcement, national security, public safety, Social Security, Medicare, Veterans’ benefits, and certain types of temporary hires. The order also allows for exemptions from the freeze to be granted by the Director of OPM where necessary, and prohibits contracting outside the federal government to circumvent its intent.