The Trump administration is preparing for significant layoffs within the federal workforce, with employees facing the risk of losing their jobs if they do not accept the administration's deferred resignation offer. These layoffs, internally termed as 'Reductions in Force' (RIFs), are set to commence shortly after the February 6 deadline set by the Office of Personnel Management.
Under the deferred resignation offer, employees can choose to leave voluntarily and receive payment until September 30 without having to continue working. More than 20,000 employees have already accepted this offer, with the number steadily increasing as the deadline approaches.
While the White House aims for a 5% to 10% reduction in the federal workforce, the Office of Personnel Management has cautioned employees that declining the offer could result in job loss or a mandatory return to full-time office work.
A Trump administration official emphasized that the government is undergoing restructuring in response to the President's workforce executive orders. The official highlighted that many employees may miss out on a unique opportunity by not participating in the resignation program.
However, federal workers' unions have criticized the deferred resignation offer, raising concerns about its legality and questioning the administration's ability to fulfill its promises.
