The Trump administration is making a bold move to cut the size of the federal workforce by offering buyouts to government employees. Those who accept the deal and resign by February 6 will receive about eight months of pay as compensation. The administration hopes this will encourage thousands to leave, saving billions in taxpayer dollars.
Who’s Eligible for the Buyout?
According to a memo from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the offer applies to most federal employees, but with a few exceptions:
- Military personnel and U.S. Postal Service employees aren’t included.
- Immigration enforcement positions are also exempt.
The government estimates that between 5% and 10% of federal workers may take the offer, potentially cutting annual costs by up to $100 billion.
Union Pushback and Worker Concerns
Not everyone is happy about the plan. The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), which represents 800,000 federal and D.C. workers, is speaking out against it.
AFGE President Everett Kelley warned that this could lead to major disruptions in government services. He accused the administration of creating a “toxic environment” for federal workers and pressuring them to leave.
What Could This Mean for Everyday Americans?
If thousands of government employees take the buyout, it could lead to delays or disruptions in essential services, including:
- Healthcare for veterans
- Loan processing for homebuyers and small businesses
- Food safety inspections
- Air travel operations
The administration acknowledges that while some departments may grow, most agencies will see a reduction in staff.
What Happens Next?
Federal employees have until February 6 to decide whether to take the deal. Those who accept it will continue receiving pay and benefits until September 30, even if their workload decreases. They’ll also be allowed to work remotely during this period.
