The county council is considering a bill that would provide assistance to former federal workers laid-off by the Trump administration. 

Following campaign promises to cut down on government spending, President Donald Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency leader, Elon Musk, have laid-off thousands of federal workers.

According to the Baltimore Banner, Prince George’s County is home to over 70,000 federal workers, 14.1% of the county’s total workers.

The bill proposed by council members Wala Blegay and Krystal Oriadha outlines the establishment of an emergency assistance fund for former federal workers. After applying, laid-off workers could receive up to $1000 to be used on utility, rent, mortgaging, or groceries. The bill also calls for the priority to be given to those facing imminent emergencies such as eviction, foreclosure, or utility shutoff. 

The bill also provides career transition support, calling for Employ Prince George’s, a non-profit associated with the government that provides workforce development support, to establish a special initiative for laid-off federal workers. The initiative would include priority hiring for county government positions for eligible applicants, tax credits for businesses hiring laid-off workers, and free workforce training and career development at Prince George’s Community College.

Other support provided by the bill includes expanded food bank access and voucher programs, along with property tax deferment for up to six months after job loss.

If passed, the bill would remain in effect for three years and be up for reauthorization depending on perceived need.