This week’s episode of The FED Weekly covers the escalating threat of a government shutdown as Congress remains deadlocked over funding bills ahead of the September 30 deadline. Lawrence explains how competing short-term funding proposals are fueling uncertainty for federal workers and retirees. President Trump’s 2026 alternative pay plan—offering a 1% raise for most and 3.8% for some law enforcement—raises concerns about future retirement annuities due to its impact on high-3 salary calculations. The possible final year of the Combined Federal Campaign signals changing traditions within government culture. On the retirement front, the Thrift Savings Plan saw positive returns in August, while a new guide emphasizes the importance of careful retirement timing to maximize benefits. For current workers, new legislation seeks to restore collective bargaining rights, and a major legal battle challenges longstanding federal job protections. The episode concludes with a reminder of the approaching deadline for the Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA) and deferred resignation. Staying informed and proactive is crucial as federal workforce policies continue to shift.

• (00:00) - Introduction: Your Weekly Federal Briefing