OMB exploited the previous CR’s lack of specificity to target appropriated programs the admin didn’t like. By stating explicitly that the CR prohibits RIFs, it makes it not only illegal, but unconstitutional because it ties it specifically to appropriations.

For federal workers, the provision stopping/reversing RIF actions is a win. The CR language reaffirms congressional power of the purse through appropriated programs.

I’ll add- the contributions that Sam and the USGS BMIL has made to the field is unmatched, and all done on a shoestring budget. And the little funding that does exist, is endanger of being cut.

I suspect another issue is national park collected specimens. NPS regs make it nearly impossible to retain specimens permanently. But NPS permits make it easier if you agree to “destroy samples after analysis”.