In recent political discussions about the federal workforce, attention has turned toward reports of a proposed initiative referred to as the “deferred resignation program.” According to these reports, the concept involves offering federal civilian employees full pay and benefits through September if they agree to resign by early February. While the specific details of such a program have not been confirmed through official public documentation, the idea itself reflects larger themes that have been developing in national conversations: cutting government spending, restructuring agencies, and encouraging employees to return to in-person work after years of expanded telework. Continue reading…