The Education Department's mission is to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access, according to ed.gov. Trump has claimed, without evidence, that many Department of Education employees weren't going to work or doing a good job.

The layoffs are the first step toward dismantling the department, a goal espoused by President Donald Trump and his education secretary, Linda McMahon. Experts say they raise concerns about what the future will look like for civil rights enforcement as the Trump administration continues chipping away at federal oversight.

The suit from 20 states and the District of Columbia comes two days after the federal agency fired more than 1,300 employees.