This episode of The FED Weekly covers crucial updates for federal employees and retirees for August 17-23, 2025. Host Lawrence outlines the impending 2026 pay freeze, significant increases in FEHB health insurance premiums, and the removal of gender-affirming care coverage from all federal health plans starting in 2026. The “One Big Beautiful Bill” Act introduces several new tax deductions, but won’t fully counterbalance the financial strain from pay and benefit changes. The episode also notes the controversial cancellation of the 2025 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey, a dramatic reversal at the IRS from mass layoffs to emergency rehiring, and strengthened probationary periods for new hires. Lawrence discusses the government’s push toward AI-driven workforce solutions, the dismantling of existing innovation hubs, and pending legislation affecting pay, telework, and union rights. For retirees, the projected 2026 COLA is 2.7%, but FERS retirees will receive a lower “diet” adjustment. The episode concludes with advice for senior annuitants to ensure they’ve claimed Social Security benefits.