In a bold move to streamline the federal government, the Trump administration has unveiled a "deferred resignation program" targeting approximately two million civilian full-time federal employees. This initiative offers financial incentives for employees to voluntarily resign, allowing them to remain on the payroll until September 30 with reduced or eliminated duties. Notably, personnel involved in immigration, national security, and the Postal Service are excluded from this offer.
The administration anticipates that between 5% to 10% of the workforce will accept the buyout, potentially saving taxpayers an estimated $100 billion annually. The buyout package includes eight months of pay and benefits for those who choose to resign by February 6. This move aligns with President Trump's broader strategy to reduce federal spending and restructure government operations.
This initiative follows a series of executive orders mandating a return to full-time in-office work, effectively ending remote work policies implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. Employees who opt into the buyout program are not required to work in person until the end of September, providing a transition period for those considering resignation.
Critics, including Democratic Senator Tim Kaine, have raised concerns about the legality and potential consequences of the proposal. Federal unions have also cautioned employees against resigning, suggesting that the initiative may be designed to induce fear and uncertainty within the workforce. Despite these criticisms, the administration emphasizes that the plan aims to create a more efficient and flexible government infrastructure.
This development is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to reshape the federal workforce. Other actions include imposing a federal hiring freeze and issuing orders to make it easier to dismiss federal workers, all aimed at creating a more streamlined and cost-effective government.
