The Model Employee Reinstatement for Ill-advised Termination Act, known as the MERIT Act, is designed to create a pathway for recently terminated probationary federal employees to be reinstated to their positions following mass layoffs that occurred between January 20, 2025, and the enactment of this legislation. The Act aims to address the needs of these employees, ensuring they have the opportunity to return to their roles and receive compensation for the time they were out of work.