My crew was inform that our positions would eventually be eliminated but we would be able to re-apply for a new up-coming position. They encouraged us to do so. We were abruptly (layed off) before this new position was posted. After these new poisition were posted we were then informed that we could not appy, that the position were only for those already employed at said company. Is this actionable

Did you get it in writing?

No... unless you are in a union with a labor contract that specifically addreses such an event in the contract.

Did you get it in writing?

No. So I guess we're screwed.