The Trump administration is planning significant layoffs within the federal workforce, offering a deferred resignation package to employees at risk of losing their jobs. Referred to internally as “Reductions in Force,” these layoffs are set to begin after a deadline for workers to accept the resignation offer. The package allows voluntary departure with pay until September 30 without the requirement to continue working. Despite unions advising against acceptance, over 20,000 employees have agreed to the offer, with numbers expected to rise leading up to the deadline.

The administration aims for 5-10% of employees to resign, with warnings that those who don’t opt in may face job loss or full-time office return. The restructuring aligns with President Trump and Elon Musk’s vision to scale back the federal government. The offer excludes postal workers, military personnel, immigration enforcement, and national security roles.

Federal worker unions criticize the offer’s legality and question the administration’s ability to fulfill it. They highlight uncertainties in communication from the Office of Personnel Management and lack of guarantees for benefits. Amid funding uncertainties and restructuring plans, the unions urge members not to resign. OPM defends the offer as a generous opportunity to support employees during restructuring.

The initiative comes as part of Trump’s efforts to reshape the federal workforce by reducing its size, altering employee protections, and other changes led by the Department of Government Efficiency under Musk’s leadership.