USDA has warned its 100,000-plus employees that major staff cuts are coming, offices will be closed, and people will be forced to relocate if they want to keep their jobs. USDA employees have been given the option to quit with up to six months in pay if they choose to take it. Citing the president's executive order in February implementing the "Department of Government Efficiency Workforce Optimization Initiative," the memo warned of more cuts to come. "While final plans are still under development, USDA aims to be transparent about what employees can expect."
USDA plans to further reduce the size of the workforce and consolidate offices. That includes moving more people out of Washington, D.C., or the "National Capital Region," so staff can be "closer to the farmers, ranchers, foresters, and consumers we serve."
-NAFB