Case: American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO v. Noem

2:25-cv-00451 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington

Filed Date: March 13, 2025

Case Ongoing

Clearinghouse coding complete

Case Summary

This case challenged a February 27, 2025 determination by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem to terminate a 2024 collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The 2024 CBA, which was intended to remain in effect for seven years, permitted Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) to voluntarily join AFGE and receive workplace protections, representation, and collective bargaining r…

This case challenged a February 27, 2025 determination by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem to terminate a 2024 collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The 2024 CBA, which was intended to remain in effect for seven years, permitted Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) to voluntarily join AFGE and receive workplace protections, representation, and collective bargaining rights. 

On March 13, 2025, AFGE, an AFGE Local, and two other labor unions filed this lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security, TSA, and their corresponding agency heads in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington. Plaintiffs asserted that the attempt to rescind the CBA was in retaliation for the AFGE’s litigation against the administration on behalf of federal workers. Plaintiffs alleged that the defendants' actions violated the First and Fifth Amendments, as well as the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). Represented by Barnard, Iglitzin & Lavitt LLP and Bredhoff & Kaiser LLP, plaintiffs sought declaratory and injunctive relief, as well as attorneys’ fees. The case was assigned to Judge Marsha J. Pechman.

On April 4, the plaintiffs moved for a preliminary injunction. On May 27, 2025, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss, arguing that the court lacked subject matter jurisdiction and that the plaintiffs had failed to state a claim. 

On June 2, 2025, the court granted plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary injunction, barring defendants from implementing the Noem Determination or denying plaintiffs’ collective bargaining rights. It first held that jurisdiction was not barred by the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute or the Tucker Act. On the merits, the court found plaintiffs likely to succeed in showing the Determination was arbitrary and capricious, departed from prior agency practice without justification, and likely violated their First Amendment rights through retaliation and Fifth Amendment due process by revoking collective bargaining without notice. Finally, the court found that absent an injunction, plaintiffs would suffer irreparable harm from losing collective bargaining protections and benefits. 785 F.Supp.3d 833.

On August 13, 2025, the court denied the defendants’ motion to dismiss. The court found that defendants failed to persuade the court that it lacks jurisdiction over plaintiffs’ claims; there was no basis for finding Thunder Basin preclusion, the APA claims were reviewable, and the Tucker Act did not bar any of plaintiffs’ claims. The court also rejected defendants’ argument that the Due Process and First Amendment claims were insufficiently pleaded, finding both to be properly stated. 2025 WL 2337222.

This case was reassigned to Judge Jamal N. Whitehead on October 17, 2025. 

The case is ongoing.

Summary Authors

Alaa Mustafa (3/23/2025)

Jeremiah Price (6/11/2025)

Dahlia Gottlieb (12/3/2025)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69733614/parties/american-federation-of-government-employees-afl-cio-v-noem/


Judge(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff

Carter, Abigail V (Washington)

Chaudhuri, Pooja (Washington)

Eisen, Norman Larry (Washington)

Attorney for Defendant
Expert/Monitor/Master/Other

Ard, Joel B (Washington)

Dorey, David (Washington)

Documents in the Clearinghouse

Documents in this case
1

2:25-cv-00451

Complaint for Declaratory and Injunctive Relief

March 13, 2025

March 13, 2025

Complaint
18

2:25-cv-00451

Motion of Plaintiffs' AFGE and AFGE TSA Local 1121 for Preliminary Injunction

April 4, 2025

April 4, 2025

Pleading / Motion / Brief
39

2:25-cv-00451

Order Granting Motion for Preliminary Injunction

American Federation of Government Employees v. Noem

June 2, 2025

June 2, 2025

Order/Opinion

785 F.Supp.3d 833

47

2:25-cv-00451

Order Denying Motion to Dismiss

Aug. 13, 2025

Aug. 13, 2025

Order/Opinion

2025 WL 2337222

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69733614/american-federation-of-government-employees-afl-cio-v-noem/

Last updated July 28, 2026, 6:24 p.m.

ECF Number Date Description Link
1 March 13, 2025

COMPLAINT FOR DECLARATORY AND INJUNCTIVE RELIEF against defendant(s) Kristi Noem, Adam Stahl, Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Department of Homeland Security (Receipt # AWAWDC-8880571) Attorney Robert H Lavitt added to party American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO(pty:pla), Attorney Robert H Lavitt added to party American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121(pty:pla), Attorney Robert H Lavitt added to party Communications Workers of America AFL-CIO(pty:pla), Attorney Robert H Lavitt added to party Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO (pty:pla) filed by Communications Workers of America AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO. (Attachments: # 1 Civil Cover Sheet, # 2 Summons, # 3 Summons, # 4 Summons, # 5 Summons, # 6 Summons, # 7 Summons)(Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 03/13/2025)

1 Civil Cover Sheet

View on RECAP

2 Summons

View on RECAP

3 Summons

View on RECAP

4 Summons

View on RECAP

5 Summons

View on RECAP

6 Summons

View on RECAP

7 Summons

View on RECAP

Clearinghouse
2 March 14, 2025

CORPORATE DISCLOSURE STATEMENT indicating no Corporate Parents and/or Affiliates. Filed pursuant to Fed.R.Civ.P 7.1(a)(1). Filed by Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO. (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 03/14/2025)

RECAP
3 March 14, 2025

CORPORATE DISCLOSURE STATEMENT indicating no Corporate Parents and/or Affiliates. Filed pursuant to Fed.R.Civ.P 7.1(a)(1). Filed by American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO. (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 03/14/2025)

RECAP
4 March 14, 2025

CORPORATE DISCLOSURE STATEMENT indicating no Corporate Parents and/or Affiliates. Filed pursuant to Fed.R.Civ.P 7.1(a)(1). Filed by American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121. (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 03/14/2025)

RECAP
5 March 14, 2025

CORPORATE DISCLOSURE STATEMENT indicating no Corporate Parents and/or Affiliates. Filed pursuant to Fed.R.Civ.P 7.1(a)(1). Filed by Communications Workers of America AFL-CIO. (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 03/14/2025)

RECAP
6 March 14, 2025

Summons(es) Electronically Issued as to Teal Luthy Miller, Adam Stahl, Kristi Noem, Pam Bondi, Transportation Security Administration, and United States Department of Homeland Security. (Attachments: # 1 Summons, # 2 Summons, # 3 Summons, # 4 Summons, # 5 Summons)(AVC) (Entered: 03/14/2025)

RECAP
March 14, 2025

Add and Terminate Judges

March 14, 2025

Judge Marsha J. Pechman added. (AVC)

7 March 19, 2025

APPLICATION OF ATTORNEY J. Alexander Rowell FOR LEAVE TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE for All Plaintiffs (Fee Paid) Receipt No. AWAWDC-8889375 (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 03/19/2025)

RECAP
8 March 19, 2025

APPLICATION OF ATTORNEY Abigail V. Carter FOR LEAVE TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE for All Plaintiffs (Fee Paid) Receipt No. AWAWDC-8889398 (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 03/19/2025)

RECAP
9 March 19, 2025

ORDER re 7 Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice, 8 Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice. The Court ADMITS Attorneys James Alexander Rowell and Abigail V Carter for Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO, Communications Workers of America AFL-CIO, by Clerk Ravi Subramanian. No document associated with this docket entry, text only.NOTE TO COUNSEL: Local counsel agrees to sign all filings and to be prepared to handle the matter, including the trial thereof, in the event the applicant is unable to be present on any date scheduled by the court, pursuant to LCR 83.1(d).(AVC) (Entered: 03/19/2025)

RECAP
10 March 19, 2025

APPLICATION OF ATTORNEY Rushab B. Sanghvi FOR LEAVE TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE for Plaintiff American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO (Fee Paid) Receipt No. AWAWDC-8890960 (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 03/19/2025)

RECAP
11 March 19, 2025

APPLICATION OF ATTORNEY Andres M. Grajales FOR LEAVE TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE for Plaintiff American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO (Fee Paid) Receipt No. AWAWDC-8890981 (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 03/19/2025)

RECAP
March 19, 2025

Order on Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

March 20, 2025

Notice to PHV and Local Counsel Unable to Process Application

March 20, 2025

Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice 10, Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice 11 by attorney Rushab B. Sanghvi and Andres M. Grajales will not be processed at this time. The Pro Hac attorney must submit a Pro Hac Vice access request via Manage My Account on PACER, under the Maintenance tab. See page 2 of the Pro Hac Vice Application Guide for detailed instructions. Please contact the Attorney Admissions Clerk at 206-370-8400 or WAWD_Admissions@wawd.uscourts.gov with additional questions. (Ad hoc Attorney Rushab B. Sanghvi and Andres M. Grajales) (HH)

12 March 21, 2025

ORDER re 11 Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice. The Court ADMITS Attorney Andres Myles Grajales for Plaintiff American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, by Clerk Ravi Subramanian. No document associated with this docket entry, text only.NOTE TO COUNSEL: Local counsel agrees to sign all filings and to be prepared to handle the matter, including the trial thereof, in the event the applicant is unable to be present on any date scheduled by the court, pursuant to LCR 83.1(d).(HH) (Entered: 03/21/2025)

RECAP
March 21, 2025

Order on Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

13 March 25, 2025

ORDER re 10 Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice. The Court ADMITS Attorney Rushab Sanghvi for Plaintiff American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, by Clerk Ravi Subramanian. No document associated with this docket entry, text only.NOTE TO COUNSEL: Local counsel agrees to sign all filings and to be prepared to handle the matter, including the trial thereof, in the event the applicant is unable to be present on any date scheduled by the court, pursuant to LCR 83.1(d).(HH) (Entered: 03/25/2025)

RECAP
March 25, 2025

Order on Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

14 March 31, 2025

APPLICATION OF ATTORNEY Pooja Chaudhuri FOR LEAVE TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE for All Plaintiffs (Fee Paid) Receipt No. AWAWDC-8906249 (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 03/31/2025)

RECAP
15 March 31, 2025

APPLICATION OF ATTORNEY Norman Eisen FOR LEAVE TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE for All Plaintiffs (Fee Paid) Receipt No. AWAWDC-8906256 (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 03/31/2025)

RECAP
16 March 31, 2025

ORDER re 15 Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice. The Court ADMITS Attorney Norman Larry Eisen for Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO, and the Communications Workers of America AFL-CIO, by Clerk Ravi Subramanian. No document associated with this docket entry, text only.NOTE TO COUNSEL: Local counsel agrees to sign all filings and to be prepared to handle the matter, including the trial thereof, in the event the applicant is unable to be present on any date scheduled by the court, pursuant to LCR 83.1(d).(AVC) (Entered: 03/31/2025)

RECAP
March 31, 2025

Notice to PHV and Local Counsel Unable to Process Application

March 31, 2025

Order on Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

March 31, 2025

Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice 14 by attorney Pooja Chaudhuri will not be processed at this time. The Pro Hac attorney must submit a Pro Hac Vice access request via Manage My Account on PACER, under the Maintenance tab. See page 2 of the Pro Hac Vice Application Guide for detailed instructions. Please contact the Attorney Admissions Clerk at 206-370-8400 or WAWD_Admissions@wawd.uscourts.gov with additional questions. (Ad hoc Attorney Pooja Chaudhuri) (AVC)

17 April 1, 2025

ORDER re 14 Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice. The Court ADMITS Attorney Pooja Chaudhuri for Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO, and the Communications Workers of America AFL-CIO, by Clerk Ravi Subramanian. No document associated with this docket entry, text only.NOTE TO COUNSEL: Local counsel agrees to sign all filings and to be prepared to handle the matter, including the trial thereof, in the event the applicant is unable to be present on any date scheduled by the court, pursuant to LCR 83.1(d).(AVC) (Entered: 04/01/2025)

RECAP
April 1, 2025

Order on Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

18 April 4, 2025

MOTION for Preliminary Injunction, filed by Plaintiffs' American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO and American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121 All Plaintiffs. Oral Argument Requested. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order) Noting Date 5/9/2025, (Lavitt, Robert) Modified to correct filing parties on 4/8/2025 (MJV). (Entered: 04/04/2025)

Clearinghouse
19 April 4, 2025

DECLARATION of Amelia Glymph filed by Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121 re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Exhibits 1-8)(Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 04/04/2025)

RECAP
20 April 4, 2025

DECLARATION of Scott Lewis filed by Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121 re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 04/04/2025)

RECAP
21 April 7, 2025

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE by Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121 re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction, 20 Declaration, 19 Declaration, (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 04/07/2025)

RECAP
22 April 7, 2025

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE by All Plaintiffs re 6 Summons Issued, 1 Complaint,,, (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A)(Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 04/07/2025)

RECAP
23 April 14, 2025

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE by Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121 re 21 Certificate of Service, 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction, 20 Declaration, 19 Declaration, (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 04/14/2025)

RECAP
24 April 23, 2025

NOTICE of Appearance by attorney Brian C Kipnis on behalf of Defendants Kristi Noem, United States Department of Homeland Security, Adam Stahl, Transportation Security Administration. (Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 04/23/2025)

RECAP
25 April 25, 2025

APPLICATION OF ATTORNEY Taryn Wilgus Null FOR LEAVE TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE for All Plaintiffs (Fee Paid) Receipt No. AWAWDC-8947366 (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 04/25/2025)

RECAP
26 April 25, 2025

RESPONSE, by All Defendants, to 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction . (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order)(Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 04/25/2025)

1 Proposed Order

View on RECAP

RECAP
27 April 25, 2025

DECLARATION of Anthony Vincenzo filed by All Defendants re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1, # 2 Exhibit 2, # 3 Exhibit 3)(Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 04/25/2025)

1 Exhibit 1

View on PACER

2 Exhibit 2

View on PACER

3 Exhibit 3

View on PACER

RECAP
28 April 28, 2025

ORDER re 25 Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice. The Court ADMITS Attorney Taryn Wilgus Null for Plaintiff American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO, and Communications Workers of America AFL-CIO, by Clerk Ravi Subramanian. No document associated with this docket entry, text only.NOTE TO COUNSEL: Local counsel agrees to sign all filings and to be prepared to handle the matter, including the trial thereof, in the event the applicant is unable to be present on any date scheduled by the court, pursuant to LCR 83.1(d).(HH) (Entered: 04/28/2025)

RECAP
April 28, 2025

Order on Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

29 April 29, 2025

MOTION for Leave to File Amicus Brief, filed by Amicus Americans for Fair Treatment. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Amicus Brief, # 2 Exhibit Exhibit A to Amicus Brief, # 3 Exhibit Exhibit B to Amicus Brief, # 4 Exhibit Exhibit C to Amicus Brief, # 5 Proposed Order Granting Leave to File) Noting Date 4/29/2025, (Ard, Joel) (Entered: 04/29/2025)

1 Proposed Amicus Brief

View on RECAP

2 Exhibit Exhibit A to Amicus Brief

View on PACER

3 Exhibit Exhibit B to Amicus Brief

View on PACER

4 Exhibit Exhibit C to Amicus Brief

View on PACER

5 Proposed Order Granting Leave to File

View on PACER

RECAP
30 April 29, 2025

NOTICE of Appearance by attorney Joel B Ard on behalf of Amicus Americans for Fair Treatment. (Ard, Joel) (Entered: 04/29/2025)

RECAP
31 April 29, 2025

CORPORATE DISCLOSURE STATEMENT indicating no Corporate Parents and/or Affiliates. Filed pursuant to Fed.R.Civ.P 7.1(a)(1). Filed by Americans for Fair Treatment. (Ard, Joel) (Entered: 04/29/2025)

RECAP
32 April 29, 2025

APPLICATION OF ATTORNEY David Dorey FOR LEAVE TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE for Amicus Americans for Fair Treatment (Fee Paid) Receipt No. CWAWDC-8952676 (Ard, Joel) (Entered: 04/29/2025)

RECAP
33 May 1, 2025

ORDER re 32 Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice. The Court ADMITS Attorney David Dorey for Amicus Curiae Americans for Fair Treatment, by Clerk Ravi Subramanian. No document associated with this docket entry, text only.NOTE TO COUNSEL: Local counsel agrees to sign all filings and to be prepared to handle the matter, including the trial thereof, in the event the applicant is unable to be present on any date scheduled by the court, pursuant to LCR 83.1(d).(HH) (Entered: 05/01/2025)

RECAP
May 1, 2025

Order on Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

34 May 2, 2025

REPLY, filed by Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121, TO RESPONSE to 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 05/02/2025)

RECAP
35 May 2, 2025

DECLARATION of Chad E. Harris filed by Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121 re 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1)(Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 05/02/2025)

1 Exhibit 1

View on PACER

RECAP
May 12, 2025

Set/Reset Oral Argument on Motion

May 12, 2025

Set Oral Argument on 18 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction : The court will provide remote audio public access for this hearing. Access information can be found on the court's Calendar page at least 24 hours prior to the hearing. Motion Hearing set for 5/27/2025 at 01:15 PM before Judge Marsha J. Pechman. This hearing will be conducted remotely using Zoom.(GC)

36 May 27, 2025

MINUTE ENTRY for proceedings held before Judge Marsha J. Pechman- Dep Clerk: G Cogswell; Pla Counsel: Abigail Carter; Def Counsel: Brian Kipnis; CR: Marci Chatelain; Time of Hearing: 1:15PM; Courtroom: Zoom;Preliminary/Permanent Injunction Hearing held on 5/27/2025. The Court hears oral argument on the MOTION for Preliminary Injunction at Dkt. No. 18 . The Court takes this matter under advisement and will issue a written ruling by June 3, 2025. (GC) (Entered: 05/27/2025)

RECAP
37 May 27, 2025

MOTION to Dismiss, filed by All Defendants. Oral Argument Requested. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order) Noting Date 6/24/2025, (Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 05/27/2025)

1 Proposed Order

View on RECAP

RECAP
May 27, 2025

Preliminary/Permanent Injunction Hearing

38 May 29, 2025

TRANSCRIPT REQUEST by Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO, Communications Workers of America AFL-CIO for proceedings held on 05/27/2025 re 36 Preliminary/Permanent Injunction Hearing,,. Requesting Attorney: Abigail V Carter.Posting of this Transcript Order form does not constitute an official request for transcript(s). If you have not already done so, you MUST contact the individual court reporter(s), Marci Chatelain (marci_chatelain@wawd.uscourts.gov, 206-370-8509) to make payment arrangements and secure your desired delivery time. (Carter, Abigail) (Entered: 05/29/2025)

RECAP
39 June 2, 2025

ORDER GRANTING MOTION FOR PRELIMINARY INJUNCTION. This matter comes before the Court on Plaintiffs' Motion for Preliminary Injunction. (Dkt. No. 18 .) Having reviewed the Motion, Defendants' Response (Dkt. No. 26 ), the Reply (Dkt. No. [3 4]), and all supporting materials, and having held oral argument on 5/27/2025, the Court GRANTS the Motion and ENTERS a preliminary injunction as requested by Plaintiffs on the terms set forth in the Conclusion. Signed by Judge Marsha J. Pechman. (APH)

Clearinghouse
40 June 4, 2025

CLARIFYING ORDER RE: BOND. Further to the Court's Order on Plaintiffs' Motion for Preliminary Injunction (Dkt. No. 39 ), the Court ORDERS Plaintiffs to deposit a cash bond in the amount of $100 into the Court's registry. See Fed. R. Civ. P. 67. These funds may not be withdrawn except by further order of the Court. See Fed. R. Civ. P. 67(b); 28 U.S.C. § 2042. Signed by Judge Marsha J. Pechman. (APH) (Entered: 06/04/2025)

RECAP
41 June 5, 2025

NOTICE OF FILING OF OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT of the Preliminary Injunction Hearing held on 5/27/2025 before Judge Marsha J. Pechman.Parties have seven (7) calendar days to file with the court a Notice of Intent to Request Redaction of this transcript. If no such Notice is filed, the transcript may be made remotely electronically available to the public without redaction after 90 calendar days.Transcript may be viewed at the court public terminal or purchased through the Court Reporter/Transcriber before the deadline for Release of Transcript Restriction. After that date it may be obtained through PACER. Information regarding the policy can be found on the court's website at www.wawd.uscourts.gov.To purchase a copy of the transcript, contact court reporter Marci Chatelain, Marci_Chatelain@wawd.uscourts.gov. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 9/3/2025, (MC) (Entered: 06/05/2025)

RECAP
42 June 17, 2025

RESPONSE, by All Plaintiffs, to 37 MOTION to Dismiss . (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 06/17/2025)

RECAP
43 June 24, 2025

REPLY, filed by Defendants Kristi Noem, Adam Stahl, Transportation Security Administration, United States Department of Homeland Security, TO RESPONSE to 37 MOTION to Dismiss (Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 06/24/2025)

RECAP
44 June 26, 2025

NOTICE of Supplemental Authority by All Plaintiffs (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 06/26/2025)

RECAP
45 July 28, 2025

ORDER REGARDING INITIAL DISCLOSURES AND JOINT STATUS REPORT Joint Status Report due by 9/8/2025, FRCP 26(f) Conference Deadline is 8/25/2025, Initial Disclosure Deadline is 9/2/2025, Signed by Judge Marsha J. Pechman. (GC) (Entered: 07/28/2025)

RECAP
46 Aug. 4, 2025

NOTICE of Supplemental Authority re 37 MOTION to Dismiss by All Defendants (Attachments: # 1 AFGE v. Trump Opinion)(Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 08/04/2025)

RECAP
47 Aug. 13, 2025

ORDER denying Defendants' 37 Motion to Dismiss. Signed by Judge Marsha J. Pechman. (APH) (Entered: 08/13/2025)

Clearinghouse
48 Aug. 22, 2025

Stipulated MOTION for Order Extending Defendants' Time to File Response to Complaint and Administrative Record; Order Thereon, filed by All Defendants. Noting Date 8/22/2025, (Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 08/22/2025)

RECAP
49 Aug. 22, 2025

ORDER denying without prejudice 48 Stipulated Motion signed by Judge Marsha J. Pechman. (IJM) (Entered: 08/22/2025)

RECAP
50 Aug. 26, 2025

Unopposed MOTION for Extension of Time for Defendants to File Response to Complaint & Administrative Record; Declaration of Brian C. Kipnis in Support Thereof, filed by All Defendants. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order) Noting Date 8/26/2025, (Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 08/26/2025)

RECAP
51 Aug. 27, 2025

ORDER granting Defendants' 50 Unopposed MOTION for Extension of Time. Defendants must file their Answer and the administrative record by no later than 10/7/2025. Signed by Judge Marsha J. Pechman. (APH) (Entered: 08/27/2025)

RECAP
52 Sept. 2, 2025

MINUTE ORDER. The Court hereby EXTENDS the initial case deadlines as follows: FRCP 26(f) Conference Deadline is 9/30/2025, Initial Disclosure Deadline is 10/7/2025, Combined Joint Status Report and Discovery Plan due by 10/14/2025. Authorized by Judge Marsha J. Pechman. (APH) (Entered: 09/02/2025)

RECAP
53 Oct. 7, 2025

ANSWER to 1 Complaint,,, by Kristi Noem, Adam Stahl, Transportation Security Administration, United States Department of Homeland Security.(Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 10/07/2025)

RECAP
54 Oct. 7, 2025

ADMINISTRATIVE RECORD filed by Defendants Kristi Noem, Adam Stahl, Transportation Security Administration, United States Department of Homeland Security. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit CAR000001 - CAR000031)(Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 10/07/2025)

RECAP
55 Oct. 14, 2025

JOINT STATUS REPORT signed by all parties. Estimated Trial Days: 3. Filed by All Plaintiffs.(Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 10/14/2025)

RECAP
56 Oct. 14, 2025

ORDER SETTING TRIAL DATE AND RELATED DATES; Length of Trial: *3 days*. Bench Trial is set for 9/14/2026 at 09:00 AM in Courtroom 14206 before Judge Marsha J. Pechman. Joinder of Parties due by 11/12/2025, Amended Pleadings due by 11/21/2025, Expert Witness Disclosure/Reports under FRCP 26(a)(2) due by 2/17/2026, Motions due by 3/18/2026, Discovery completed by 4/17/2026, Dispositive motions due by 5/18/2026, Motions in Limine due by 8/10/2026, Pretrial Order due by 9/1/2026, Trial briefs to be submitted by 9/1/2026, Proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law to be submitted by 9/1/2026, Pretrial Conference set for 9/3/2026 at 01:30 PM in Courtroom 14206 before Judge Marsha J. Pechman. Signed by Judge Marsha J. Pechman. (GC) (Entered: 10/14/2025)

RECAP
57 Oct. 17, 2025

MINUTE ORDER REASSIGNING CASE. Case reassigned to Judge Jamal N Whitehead for all further proceedings. Judge Marsha J. Pechman no longer assigned to case. Authorized by Judge Marsha J. Pechman. (GC) (Entered: 10/17/2025)

RECAP
58 Dec. 12, 2025

MOTION to Dismiss Complaint for Lack of Subject-Matter Jurisdiction and for Dissolution of Preliminary Injunction; Memorandum of Points and Authorities in Support Thereof, filed by All Defendants. Oral Argument Requested. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1 - September Determination, # 2 Proposed Order) Noting Date 1/9/2026, (Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 12/12/2025)

1 Exhibit 1 - September Determination

View on PACER

2 Proposed Order

View on RECAP

RECAP
59 Dec. 18, 2025

Emergency MOTION to Enforce Preliminary Injunction, filed by Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order, # 2 Declaration of Amelia Glymph) Noting Date 12/18/2025, (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 12/18/2025)

1 Proposed Order

View on PACER

2 Declaration of Amelia Glymph

View on PACER

RECAP
60 Dec. 19, 2025

NOTICE of Appearance by attorney Kathleen Phair Barnard on behalf of Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO, Communications Workers of America AFL-CIO. (Barnard, Kathleen) (Entered: 12/19/2025)

RECAP
61 Dec. 22, 2025

APPLICATION OF ATTORNEY Jacob Karabell FOR LEAVE TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE for Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO, Communications Workers of America AFL-CIO (Fee Paid) Receipt No. AWAWDC-9362742 (Barnard, Kathleen) (Entered: 12/22/2025)

RECAP
62 Dec. 22, 2025

ORDER. By 3:30 p.m. (PT) on 12/23/2025 the Parties must meet and confer and file a stipulated motion proposing an agreed-upon briefing schedule regarding Plaintiff's Emergency Motion, Dkt. No. 59, for the Court's review. Failing agreement between the parties, the Court will hold a telephonic scheduling hearing on 12/23/2025 at 4:00 p.m. to set a briefing schedule on the matter. Signed by Judge Jamal N Whitehead. (KRA) (Entered: 12/22/2025)

RECAP
63 Dec. 23, 2025

ORDER re 61 Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice,. The Court ADMITS Attorney Jacob Karabell for Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO, and Communications Workers of America AFL-CIO, by Clerk Ravi Subramanian. No document associated with this docket entry, text only.NOTE TO COUNSEL: Local counsel agrees to sign all filings and to be prepared to handle the matter, including the trial thereof, in the event the applicant is unable to be present on any date scheduled by the court, pursuant to LCR 83.1(d).(HH) (Entered: 12/23/2025)

RECAP
64 Dec. 23, 2025

Stipulated MOTION TO SET BRIEFING SCHEDULE FOR PLAINTIFFS' EMERGENCY MOTION TO ENFORCE; [PROPOSED] ORDER SETTING BRIEFING SCHEDULE RE SAME, filed by All Plaintiffs. Noting Date 12/23/2025, (Barnard, Kathleen) (Entered: 12/23/2025)

RECAP
65 Dec. 23, 2025

MINUTE ORDER (text only): Given the Parties' Stipulated Motion to Set Briefing Schedule for Plaintiffs' Emergency Motion to Enforce, see Dkt. No. 64, the Court STRIKES the telephonic hearing scheduled for 12/23/2025 at 4:00 p.m., see Dkt. No. 62 . Authorized by Judge Jamal N Whitehead.(GC) (Entered: 12/23/2025)

RECAP
66 Dec. 23, 2025

STIPULATION Notice to Extend Deadlines by parties (Barnard, Kathleen) (Entered: 12/23/2025)

RECAP
67 Dec. 23, 2025

ORDER granting Parties' 64 Stipulated Motion to Set Briefing Schedule for Plaintiffs' 59 Emergency MOTION to Enforce Preliminary Injunction. (1) Defendants shall extend the implementation date of Secretary Noem's 9/29/2025 determination to 1/18/2026. (2) Defendants' Opposition is due 1/6/2026. (3) Plaintiffs' Optional Reply is due 1/12/2026 at 9:00 a.m. PST. (4) Hearing on the motion will be held 1/13/2026 at 10:00 a.m. PST. Signed by Judge Jamal N Whitehead. (KRA) (Entered: 12/23/2025)

RECAP
Dec. 23, 2025

Order on Application for Leave to Appear Pro Hac Vice

Dec. 23, 2025

2 - Minute Order

68 Jan. 6, 2026

RESPONSE, by All Defendants, to 59 Emergency MOTION to Enforce Preliminary Injunction. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order)(Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 01/06/2026)

1 Proposed Order

View on PACER

RECAP
69 Jan. 9, 2026

MOTION for Leave to File Supplemental Complaint, filed by All Plaintiffs. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1, # 2 Exhibit 2, # 3 Proposed Order) Noting Date 1/30/2026, (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 01/09/2026)

1 Exhibit 1

View on PACER

2 Exhibit 2

View on PACER

3 Proposed Order

View on PACER

RECAP
70 Jan. 9, 2026

RESPONSE, by All Plaintiffs, to 58 MOTION to Dismiss Complaint for Lack of Subject-Matter Jurisdiction and for Dissolution of Preliminary Injunction; Memorandum of Points and Authorities in Support Thereof. (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 01/09/2026)

RECAP
71 Jan. 9, 2026

REPLY, filed by Plaintiffs American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees AFL-CIO TSA Local 1121, TO RESPONSE to 59 Emergency MOTION to Enforce Preliminary Injunction (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 01/09/2026)

RECAP
72 Jan. 13, 2026

MINUTE ENTRY for proceedings held before Judge Jamal N Whitehead- Dep Clerk: Grant Cogswell; Pla Counsel: James Alexander Rowell, Abigail Carter, Rushab Sanghvi, Robert Lavitt; Def Counsel: Brian Kipnis; CR: Debbie Zurn; Time of Hearing: 10:00AM; Courtroom: 16106;Motion Hearing held on 1/13/2026. The Court hears oral argument the pending Emergency MOTION to Enforce Preliminary Injunction at Dkt. No. 59 . After hearing argument, the Court takes this matter under advisement and will issue a ruling as soon as possible. (GC) (Entered: 01/15/2026)

RECAP
73 Jan. 15, 2026

ORDER CLARIFYING PRELIMINARY INJUNCTION. The Court GRANTS Plaintiffs' Emergency Motion to Enforce the Preliminary Injunction. The Court clarifies the Preliminary Injunction issued on 6/2/2025 as detailed herein. The Preliminary Injunction will remain in effect unless and until it is modified, dissolved, or stayed by a court of law. Defendants must immediately notify bargaining unit TSOs that, pursuant to the Preliminary Injunction issued by the Court on 6/2/2025, the September Noem Determination will not take effect on 1/18/2026, the 2024 CBA remains applicable and binding, and the currently pending grievances and arbitrations submitted under the 2024 CBA will continue to be processed. Signed by Judge Jamal N Whitehead. (KRA) (Entered: 01/15/2026)

RECAP
74 Jan. 15, 2026

TRANSCRIPT REQUEST by All Plaintiffs for proceedings held on 1/13/2026. Requesting Attorney: Robert H Lavitt.Posting of this Transcript Order form does not constitute an official request for transcript(s). If you have not already done so, you MUST contact the individual court reporter(s), Debbie Zurn (debbie_zurn@wawd.uscourts.gov, 206-370-8504) to make payment arrangements and secure your desired delivery time. (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 01/15/2026)

RECAP
Jan. 15, 2026

Motion Hearing

75 Jan. 16, 2026

REPLY, filed by All Defendants, TO RESPONSE to 58 MOTION to Dismiss Complaint for Lack of Subject-Matter Jurisdiction and for Dissolution of Preliminary Injunction; Memorandum of Points and Authorities in Support Thereof (Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 01/16/2026)

RECAP
76 Jan. 19, 2026

NOTICE OF FILING OF OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT of Motion Hearing held on 1/13/2026 before Judge Jamal N. Whitehead.Parties have seven (7) calendar days to file with the court a Notice of Intent to Request Redaction of this transcript. If no such Notice is filed, the transcript may be made remotely electronically available to the public without redaction after 90 calendar days.Transcript may be viewed at the court public terminal or purchased through the Court Reporter/Transcriber before the deadline for Release of Transcript Restriction. After that date it may be obtained through PACER. Information regarding the policy can be found on the court's website at www.wawd.uscourts.gov.To purchase a copy of the transcript, contact court reporter Debbie Zurn, debbie_zurn@wawd.uscourts.gov, 206-370-8504. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 4/20/2026, (DZ) (Entered: 01/19/2026)

RECAP
77 Jan. 26, 2026

RESPONSE, by All Defendants, to 69 MOTION for Leave to File Supplemental Complaint. (Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 01/26/2026)

RECAP
78 Jan. 30, 2026

REPLY, filed by All Plaintiffs, TO RESPONSE to 69 MOTION for Leave to File Supplemental Complaint (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 01/30/2026)

RECAP
79 March 9, 2026

NOTICE of Supplemental Authority re 58 MOTION to Dismiss Complaint for Lack of Subject-Matter Jurisdiction and for Dissolution of Preliminary Injunction; Memorandum of Points and Authorities in Support Thereof by Defendants Kristi Noem, Adam Stahl, Transportation Security Administration, United States Department of Homeland Security (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit)(Kipnis, Brian) (Entered: 03/09/2026)

RECAP
80 May 8, 2026

Stipulated MOTION to Suspend Dispositive Motion Deadline and Set Deadline for Joint Status Report; Proposed Order, filed by All Plaintiffs. Noting Date 5/8/2026, (Lavitt, Robert) (Entered: 05/08/2026)

RECAP
81 May 11, 2026

ORDER granting the Parties' 80 Stipulated Motion to Suspend Dispositive Motion Deadline and Set Deadline for Joint Status Report. It is hereby ORDERED that: 1. The 5/18/2026 dispositive motion deadline contained in the Order Setting Trial Dates and Related Dates (Dkt. No. 56 ) is suspended. 2. The Parties shall submit a Joint Status Report by 5/22/2026 to be considered by this Court in resetting the deadlines contained in the Order Setting Trial Dates. Signed by Judge Jamal N Whitehead.(CJS) (Entered: 05/11/2026)

RECAP

Case Details

State / Territory:

Washington

Case Type(s):

Presidential/Gubernatorial Authority

Speech and Religious Freedom

Special Collection(s):

Trump Administration 2.0: Challenges to the Government

Key Dates

Filing Date: March 13, 2025

Case Ongoing: Yes

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

Four labor unions and organizations focused on the flight industry

Plaintiff Type(s):

Non-profit NON-religious organization

Public Interest Lawyer: No

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: No

Class Action Outcome: Not sought

Defendants

Federal

Department of Homeland Security

Transportation Security Administration

Defendant Type(s):

Jurisdiction-wide

Transportation

Case Details

Causes of Action:

Administrative Procedure Act, 5 U.S.C. §§ 551 et seq.

Constitutional Clause(s):

Due Process

Freedom of speech/association

Other Dockets:

Western District of Washington 2:25-cv-00451

Available Documents:

Any published opinion

Complaint (any)

Injunctive (or Injunctive-like) Relief

Trial Court Docket

Outcome

Prevailing Party: Plaintiff OR Mixed

Relief Sought:

Attorneys fees

Declaratory judgment

Injunction

Relief Granted:

Preliminary injunction / Temp. restraining order

Source of Relief:

Litigation

Content of Injunction:

National / Universal injunction

Preliminary relief granted

Issues

General/Misc.:

Public benefits (includes, e.g., in-state tuition, govt. jobs)

Staff (number, training, qualifications, wages)

Transportation

Presidential/Gubernatorial Authority:

Civil Service

Recommended Citation