• Maryland is proactively addressing anticipated increases in unemployment among federal workers and contractors due to federal agency realignments.
• The state is offering job search assistance, unemployment insurance, and housing assistance, drawing from its experience managing the economic impact of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.
• Experts highlight the potential for mass trauma and workplace stress among federal employees and recommend stress management techniques and mental health resources.

The state of Maryland, home to a significant number of federal employees and contractors, is preparing for a potential surge in unemployment due to workforce reductions in federal agencies. Drawing on experiences from the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, Maryland is implementing programs to support affected individuals, including job search assistance, unemployment insurance, and housing assistance. The state is coordinating with neighboring jurisdictions and offering resources to help federal workers navigate the transition and manage associated stress.

• What: Maryland is preparing for potential job losses among federal workers and contractors by offering various support programs and resources.
• Who: Portia Wu (Maryland Secretary of Labor), Terry Gerton (Host of the Federal Drive), Dr. Robin Weiss (Maryland psychiatrist), Adrienne Breidenstine (spokeswoman for Behavioral Health Systems Baltimore), federal workers, and Maryland state government.
• When: The initial impact of federal workforce reductions was observed in March's jobs report, with anticipated ripple effects throughout the summer and fall. The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse occurred just over a year prior.
• Where: Maryland, with a focus on federal agencies headquartered in the state and the impact on surrounding communities.

Maryland's proactive approach to supporting federal workers and contractors reflects the state's significant reliance on the federal government as an employer. The state's experience with the Key Bridge collapse has provided valuable lessons in rapidly deploying economic assistance programs. The emphasis on mental health resources from The Baltimore Banner highlights a critical need to address the psychological impact of job losses and uncertainty, which can affect both those laid off and those remaining in federal positions. Coordination with neighboring jurisdictions is essential due to the interconnectedness of the DMV's federal workforce.

It’s important for people to take a look. We have a bunch of resources on our website.

For these employees to watch a system they care deeply about destroyed before their eyes, with little hope it can be rebuilt, is devastating.

People, she said, 'just need to vent.'

Maryland is taking concrete steps to mitigate the impact of federal workforce reductions on its residents. By offering job search assistance, income support, and mental health resources, the state aims to support affected individuals through the transition. The situation remains fluid, and continued monitoring and coordination will be crucial to effectively address the evolving needs of federal workers and contractors in Maryland. The emphasis on cross-agency and cross-state collaboration underscores the importance of a coordinated approach to addressing this complex challenge.