Several federal agencies launch a 'deferred resignation' effort to encourage workers to leave their jobs

Source: NBC News

April 1, 2025, 1:15 PM EDT


WASHINGTON — At least six federal agencies are offering workers a new "deferred resignation" opportunity in the latest attempt by the Trump administration to slash the size of the U.S. government.

Employees at the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Agriculture Department on Monday night received emails, which were obtained by NBC News, presenting them with the option to resign while staying on paid leave for several months. Transportation Department employees received a similar notice about the program Tuesday morning, according to an email obtained by NBC News.

Spokespersons for the General Services Administration and the Energy Department told NBC News that the deferred resignation program was opening up to its eligible employees as well, and the Defense Department said its civilian workforce received a similar offer Friday. The White House has said about 75,000 federal workers accepted the administration's first offer. The first deferred resignation program allowed workers to resign now but get paid through September. The new programs are similar.

Not every USDA worker is eligible for the program, depending on whether their position is considered critical, according to the email USDA employees received. Certain employees at the Transportation Department are also ineligible, including public safety workers at places like the Federal Aviation Administration.

Read more: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/trump-administration/federal-agencies-launch-new-deferred-resignation-effort-encourage-work-rcna199069