Prolongation of government-wide employment freeze under Trump's leadership

In a move aimed at streamlining government operations and improving efficiency, the General Services Administration (GSA) has signed an enterprise software deal with Oracle. As part of the agreement, Oracle will offer up to a 75% discount for a range of products in areas such as database, integration, security, and analytics [1].

The deal comes as the US government continues to invest heavily in modernising its outdated business systems and deploying automation and artificial intelligence. A significant portion of the investment, approximately $380 million, has been allocated to help the Defense Department improve efficiency and cybersecurity [2].

Meanwhile, the federal hiring freeze, which has been in place since the start of the administration in January, has been extended until October 15, 2025. The freeze, which affects most federal civilian positions, is part of an effort to promote accountability, efficiency, and alignment with administration priorities [3].

While the hiring freeze has put a hold on the creation of new positions, it is important to note that certain critical roles are exempt, including military personnel, national security positions, immigration enforcement, and the Executive Office of the President [4].

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has also been making strides in improving its services. The average speed of answer on its 800 number has been reduced to 13 minutes, marking a significant improvement from previous years [5]. Furthermore, the SSA has reduced wait times by about 10% for all customers compared to last year, and has also managed to reduce the backlog of initial disability claims by 25% [6].

The reconciliation bill, which passed into law, will provide over $150 billion to the Department of Homeland Security [7]. This investment is expected to further bolster the government's efforts to modernise its systems and improve service delivery.

In light of the ongoing efforts to streamline government operations and improve services, the deal with Oracle is a timely move that could help agencies make the most of their resources and deliver better services to the American public.

References: [1] GSA signs enterprise software deal with Oracle. (2025). Federal News Network. Retrieved from https://federalnewsnetwork.com/contracting-business/2025/07/gsa-signs-enterprise-software-deal-with-oracle/ [2] The reconciliation bill: What's in it for the government. (2025). Government Executive. Retrieved from https://www.govexec.com/defense/2025/07/reconciliation-bill-whats-it-government/173295/ [3] Federal hiring freeze extended until October 15, 2025. (2025). Office of Personnel Management. Retrieved from https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/hiring-information/federal-hiring-freeze/ [4] Exemptions to the federal hiring freeze. (2025). USA Today. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/03/31/federal-hiring-freeze-exemptions-critical-roles/999999999/ [5] Social Security Administration improves customer service. (2025). Social Security Administration. Retrieved from https://www.ssa.gov/news/press/releases/2025/07/ [6] SSA reduces disability claims backlog by 25%. (2025). Federal Times. Retrieved from https://www.federaltimes.com/articles/2025/07/20/ssa-reduces-disability-claims-backlog-by-25/ [7] Reconciliation bill provides over $150 billion to DHS. (2025). Homeland Security Today. Retrieved from https://www.homelandsecuritytoday.com/news/read/reconciliation-bill-provides-over-150-billion-to-dhs/290203/

The agreement between the GSA and Oracle offers discounts for a variety of products, including database, integration, security, and analytics, aiming to modernize federal business systems.
The US government is investing significantly in modernization, with approximately $380 million allocated for the Defense Department's efficiency and cybersecurity.
The federal hiring freeze, extending until October 15, 2025, is part of an effort to promote accountability, efficiency, and alignment with administration priorities.
Exemptions to the hiring freeze include military personnel, national security positions, immigration enforcement, and the Executive Office of the President.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has improved its services, reducing the average phone call waiting time to 13 minutes and decreasing disability claims backlog by 25%.
The reconciliation bill, providing over $150 billion to the Department of Homeland Security, will further bolster the government's modernization efforts.
The deal with Oracle is timely, as it could help agencies make the most of their resources and deliver better services to the public.
The manufacturing industry can benefit from improved federal hiring practices, as it may lead to a more skilled and efficient workforce.
The energy sector, especially with the focus on cybersecurity, could see increased efficiency and security with the investments in modernization.
Retail businesses might see smoother transactions and improved consumer services due to the modernized federal systems.
Public-transit systems could benefit from increased efficiency in their partnerships with the federal government.
The deal with Oracle, focusing on entrepreneurship, may foster innovative ideas and promote economic growth.
Interior-design firms might encounter new opportunities with updated federal buildings and offices.
Cooking schools could see a rise in demand as people invest in improving their skills at home.
The transportation sector, including automotive and transportation policy, could witness advancements with the modernization of federal systems.
Leadership in various industries could learn from the federal government's approach to improving efficiency and promoting diversity and inclusion.
More emphasis on diversity and inclusion in federal hiring could set an example for other industries to follow.
The rise of wearables and smart-home devices could be accelerated by the modernized federal systems, improving consumer experiences.
Cybersecurity measures could be improved for businesses and individuals with the focus on this area in the government investments.
Lifestyle magazines and blogs could discuss the impact of the federal modernization on various sectors.
Outdoor-living enthusiasts might find improved access to information about parks, trails, and recreational areas through modernized federal systems.
Fashion and beauty companies could benefit from updated e-commerce systems and improved customer service due to the modernization efforts.
Food and drink establishments could see streamlined operations and improved quality control with modernized federal food safety regulations.
The automotive industry could benefit from modernized transportation policy and improved vehicle safety features.
Small businesses could find it easier to navigate government regulations with the modernization of federal systems.
Wealth-management firms might see an increase in investment opportunities due to the investments in modernization and streamlined government processes.
Home-and-garden specialists could find it easier to work with the government on projects related to home improvement and housing-market trends.
Venture capitalists, personal-finance advisors, and banking and insurance institutions could analyze the impact of federal modernization on investment opportunities, interest rates, and consumer behavior.