The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday a new initiative offering incentives for nearly all civilian federal employees to resign, signaling plans to reduce the size of the federal government.
According to an email sent to federal employees and obtained by Reuters, the “deferred resignation program” would allow federal workers to remain on the payroll through September 30 without having to work. This program offers buyouts generally capped at $25,000, providing employees with a financial cushion as they consider their options. The email sets a deadline of February 6 for employees to decide whether to participate.
The correspondence also suggested that the administration anticipates a “more streamlined and flexible workforce.” While the military and select agencies may see an increase in staffing, the majority of federal agencies are expected to face downsizing through restructurings and layoffs.
The White House did not immediately offer a comment on the matter.
Everett Kelley, President of the American Federation of Government Employees, criticized the proposal, stating it “should not be viewed as voluntary.” Kelley expressed concern over the administration’s intentions, saying, “Between the flurry of anti-worker executive orders and policies, it is clear that the Trump administration’s goal is to turn the federal government into a toxic environment where workers cannot stay even if they want to.”
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White House offers incentives to federal employees to resign
cgtn.com