Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, along with attorneys general from 11 other states, has issued a warning to federal employees regarding the Trump Administration's "deferred resignation" program. This program offers federal employees continued pay through September 30, 2025, if they resign by February 6, 2025. However, unions representing these workers have cautioned their members against accepting the offer due to uncertainties about its benefits.

Attorney General Bonta emphasized the critical role of federal employees in providing essential services and described the buyout offer as an attempt to undermine the federal workforce. "Federal employees provide vital services that Americans rely on every day," he stated. "The Trump Administration’s so-called buyout offer is a pointed attack aimed at dismantling our federal workforce."

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) initially communicated this program via email on January 28, promising continued pay and exemption from in-person work requirements until September 30 for those who resign. A follow-up email on January 30 reiterated the offer and suggested seeking employment outside government roles. Employees were informed they had until February 6 to decide whether to accept or risk losing their jobs.

Unions like the American Federation of Government Employees and the National Federation of Federal Employees have advised caution, highlighting that acceptance does not guarantee promised benefits.

In addition to California's Attorney General Bonta, attorneys general from Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, and Washington are also part of this coalition issuing warnings.