You may have seen headlines about federal layoffs, sometimes called “RIFs,” in the Department of Education. These staff reductions have affected some of the offices that oversee programs for children and adults with disabilities. Understandably, this has raised questions for many families.
This post explains what is happening, what these offices do, and what families should know.
Even if federal offices are changing, your rights under the law remain the same. Local and community organizations, including our parent organization, the Federation for Children with Special Needs (FCSN), continue to provide support and guidance to families across Massachusetts.
What’s Happening Now?
In recent weeks, the federal administration has carried out large-scale layoffs across several agencies, including the Department of Education. Many staff members within OSERS, RSA, and OSEP have been affected.
Unions have filed lawsuits, questioning whether the government has legal authority to carry out RIFs during a shutdown. The situation is still developing, and more details are expected in the coming weeks.
What Is OSERS?
OSERS stands for the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. It is part of the U.S. Department of Education and includes two major offices:
OSEP (Office of Special Education Programs): provides leadership, funding, and technical support for special education programs that serve children and youth with disabilities. Check out this resource for more information: What is OSEP and Why is it Important?
RSA (Rehabilitation Services Administration): oversees vocational rehabilitation, employment services, and independent living programs for adults with disabilities. Check out this resource for more information: What is the Rehabilitation Service Administration, and Why is It Important?
Together, these offices make sure that federal disability laws are carried out. They guide states, fund programs, and share resources that help schools, families, and communities work together to support individuals with disabilities throughout their lives.
What Is a RIF?
A RIF, or Reduction in Force, is how the federal government handles layoffs or reorganizations.
A RIF can happen when there is:
A shortage of funds
A lack of available work
A reorganization or change in how an office is structured
A RIF is not based on job performance or misconduct. It is about the position or the agency’s structure, not the individual employee. The process must follow official government rules and procedures.
What This Could Mean for Families
Your child’s rights under federal law have not changed.
However, the federal systems that support and monitor those rights may be affected.
This could lead to:
Fewer staff in Washington to help states and schools follow special education and disability laws
Slower responses when states or districts do not follow the rules
Less federal guidance for families and educators who need help understanding the law
Even so, IDEA is still the law. Courts, hearing officers, and state complaint systems still protect students’ rights and hold schools accountable.
What Families Can Do
Even in uncertain times, families have tools and support available.
Here are some practical steps:
Know your state’s complaint system. In Massachusetts, families can contact the Problem Resolution System (PRS): https://www.doe.mass.edu/prs/
Use OSEP guidance letters and memos. These are still valuable references when you have questions about your child’s rights: https://sites.ed.gov/idea/policy-guidance/
Reach out to your Parent Training and Information Center (PTI). In Massachusetts, the PTI is the Federation for Children with Special Needs (FCSN): https://fcsn.org
Stay informed. Follow updates from the U.S. Department of Education, OSERS, your state’s special education office, and trusted organizations.
Remember: you are not alone. Families, educators, and organizations across the country are working together to ensure that children with disabilities continue to receive the services and supports they deserve.
Final Thoughts
The recent federal layoffs are concerning, but they do not change your rights or your child’s access to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).
As one advocate wrote,
“Most of our IEP battles have always been at the state and local level. OSEP was never showing up at your meeting with a clipboard and backup. Yes, it’s scary to see them gutted. But the real fight has always been in your inbox, at your school, and in front of your state Department of Education. You still have rights. You still have tools. And you’re not doing this alone.”
— A Day in Our Shoes
IDEA still stands. Your voice still matters. And your community is still here to help.
