MERIT Act

This bill requires federal agencies to reinstate eligible probationary employees who were terminated during mass layoffs (defined as 15+ separations in 30 days) between January 20, 2025, and the bill's enactment. It mandates reinstatement to similar positions with matching benefits (health insurance, retirement, etc.) and back pay covering the period from termination to reinstatement. Employees must accept reinstatement within 30 days, and agencies must process payments within 90 days. The bill also requires agencies to report on mass terminations and reinstatement outcomes to Congress.