The recent wave of federal job cuts, particularly under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has impacted thousands of workers nationwide. These cuts have disproportionately affected African American professionals who have long relied on federal jobs for stable employment. In this climate of economic uncertainty, several states are actively stepping up to support displaced workers through hiring initiatives, labor protections, and wage reforms.
This report identifies ten states responding with worker-focused policies and programs, especially relevant to those impacted by federal layoffs.
1. New York: Governor Kathy Hochul has launched a targeted hiring campaign to fill over 7,000 vacant state positions. The initiative streamlines civil service requirements for former federal workers and offers expedited entry into high-demand roles in health, transportation, and education.
NY State Department of Labor Jobs & Training Portal
2. Maryland: Governor Wes Moore has directed state agencies and encouraged private employers to prioritize hiring former federal employees. Maryland’s Office of State Personnel has opened specialized pathways for public sector transitions, with competitive salaries and benefits packages.
3. Pennsylvania: Governor Josh Shapiro has launched a plan that recognizes federal service as equivalent to state experience. This allows former federal workers to bypass traditional entry-level barriers and access mid-level openings in public works, engineering, and nursing.
PA CareerLink
4. Hawaii: Through an executive order, Governor Josh Green established “Operation Hire Hawaii,” aimed at absorbing federal employees into state agencies. The initiative removes red tape and prioritizes local talent, especially those with public administration or civil service backgrounds.
Hawaii Department of Labor & Industrial Relations
5. Virginia: Governor Glenn Youngkin proposed allocating $300 million to Virginia’s rainy-day fund to mitigate the economic impact of federal downsizing. A portion of the funds supports retraining programs and job placement services for displaced federal staff.
Virginia Employment Commission
6. California: California leads in labor protections and wage reforms. The state’s minimum wage has surpassed $16 per hour, and laws protect gig and hourly workers. Displaced federal employees are finding pathways into California’s robust public health and infrastructure sectors.
CalJOBS
7. Massachusetts: The state has enacted paid family and medical leave and new unionization rights for ride-share workers. These policies create a favorable environment for job seekers transitioning from unstable federal employment.
8. Washington: Washington State has eliminated sub-minimum tipped wages and maintains one of the highest minimum wages nationally. The state’s Department of Labor and Industries has expanded its worker support services, attracting those recently laid off from federal roles.
9. Illinois: Illinois is on track to reach a $15 minimum wage by 2025. State programs also provide support for workforce development, particularly in logistics, health care, and early childhood education. These sectors align with federal workers’ transferable skills.
10. New Jersey: New Jersey’s wage reform increased the minimum wage to $15 per hour on January 1st 2025. State-level workforce boards are offering retraining and placement services for those impacted by the federal cuts, including targeted outreach to African American workers.
NJ Department of Labor & Workforce Development Jobs & Career Center
Conclusion
The federal workforce cuts driven by DOGE have left thousands without jobs, disproportionately affecting communities of color. In response, these ten states are implementing practical, accessible, and immediate solutions. From wage reform and hiring incentives to retraining and recognition of prior service, these states provide viable pathways for stability.
For affected workers, relocation or tapping into these state-level opportunities may offer the quickest route back to meaningful employment. FunTimes Magazine will continue tracking developments as communities adapt and respond.
For further information, please check out FunTimes’ Job Resources Page supporting all workers seeking employment.
