The Keep USGS Strong Act would shield the United States Geological Survey from federal hiring freezes and employee layoffs, protecting the agency's workforce from workforce reductions even if other government agencies face them. The bill specifically exempts USGS from a January 2025 presidential hiring freeze memorandum and bars any significant reduction in force of USGS employees as long as Congress has appropriated funds for their salaries. It also requires USGS director approval before canceling any real property leases. The legislation recognizes USGS's critical role in conducting scientific research on natural hazards like earthquakes and floods, monitoring water quality and resources, protecting ecosystems like the Great Lakes, and providing geospatial data that supports public safety and resource management nationwide. This exemption ensures continuity in USGS operations and its mission to serve the public through essential scientific information.
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