WASHINGTON, D.C. – Federal employee unions, Democratic lawmakers and government experts are cautioning workers to preserve their rights and not accept the Trump administration’s recent “deferred resignation” offer, according to Government Executive’s Erich Wagner and Eric Katz.
The proposal allows federal employees who resign by Feb. 6 to continue receiving pay and benefits until Sept. 30. However, the Government Executive states concerns over its legality and reliability, leading many to advise against it.
The Government Executive noted the American Federation of Government Employees highlighted loopholes that could leave employees unpaid or vulnerable to termination before Sept. 30.
The International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers also warned members against resigning, citing uncertainty about the policy’s legal standing, wrote the Government Executive.
The Government Executive recounted how Democratic lawmakers, including Senators Tim Kaine (D-Virginia)and Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), questioned the legitimacy of the offer, noting former President Trump and Elon Musk have histories of reneging on financial commitments.
The Government Executive reports that Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) warned accepting the deal could make employees targets for future retaliation.
Republican lawmakers largely supported the initiative, said the Government Executive, noting they claim the president has broad authority over federal hiring and firing.
The Government Executive cites Max Stier, president of the Partnership for Public Service, who criticized the plan as reckless, warning it could create dangerous skill gaps in federal agencies.
Doreen Greenwald, president of the National Treasury Employees Union, condemned the offer as a tactic to weaken public service, wrote the Government Executive.
While the Trump administration maintains the plan is legal, experts continue to urge caution, said the Government Executive, noting critics insist federal employees should remain wary, and heed calls to avoid a potentially risky resignation under unclear terms.
