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4d ago

15% of USDA Workforce Exits Under Trump Administration’s Resignation Program

Over 15,000 employees have taken voluntary buyouts as part of a workforce reduction initiative, prompting staffing adjustments to maintain critical operations.

A general view of the U. S. Department of Agriculture headquarters in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 23, 2025. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst/File Photo
A general view of the U. S. Department of Agriculture headquarters in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 23, 2025. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst/File Photo
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Overview

  • As of May 1, 2025, 15,182 USDA employees have accepted voluntary resignation offers under the Deferred Retirement Program.
  • This reduction accounts for approximately 15% of the USDA workforce, significantly impacting departments like FSIS, FSA, and NRCS.
  • The Deferred Retirement Program allows participants to resign while continuing to receive pay and benefits through September 2025.
  • USDA is implementing lateral transfers and targeted hiring to address staffing gaps in essential areas such as food safety and conservation.
  • Secretary Brooke Rollins describes the program as part of a broader effort to streamline operations and focus on core departmental missions.