The Latest Developments at CFPB
The judge’s recent orders have significant implications for CFPB leaders and the U.S. DOGE Service led by Elon Musk.
One of the key rulings is the reinstatement of all probationary and term employees who were dismissed since Feb. 10. The bureau is now prohibited from terminating employees for reasons unrelated to performance or conduct, and cannot issue reduction-in-force notices.
In addition, the CFPB must ensure that employees can carry out their mandated functions by providing them with proper office space or remote working equipment. The bureau’s Washington, D.C., office, which was closed by acting director Vought, will need to be reopened.
Furthermore, the CFPB is required to maintain a functional consumer complaint portal and respond to filed complaints. A report confirming compliance with these orders must be submitted by Friday, April 4.
Following President Trump’s inauguration, efforts to downsize the CFPB were swiftly executed. Rohit Chopra was fired and temporarily replaced by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Acting director Vought, known for Project 2025, has been nominated by the Trump administration to lead the bureau. Jonathan McKernan, the nominee, underwent a Senate confirmation hearing in February, but a confirmation vote is pending.
For more information on CFPB and federal housing agency actions, click here.