US President Donald Trump said, “Some employees may be laid off and several projects halted if the shutdown continues.”

According to Al Kahera News Channel, President Trump, along with White House Budget Director Russell Vought, repeatedly confirmed that layoffs would occur if the shutdown persists.

Senior federal officials warned several federal agencies against proceeding with employee layoffs during the government shutdown, and President Trump hinted that such a move could violate funding laws.

According to informed sources speaking to US media, officials informed government agencies that mass layoffs known as “Reduction in Force” (RIFs) could be legally challenged based on a lawsuit filed by labor unions this week.

The sources pointed out that the “Anti-Deficiency Act” prohibits the federal government from obligating or spending funds not approved by Congress and forbids incurring new expenses during the shutdown, including severance payments related to layoffs.