1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

The USDA's decision to offer a deferred resignation program and subsequently pay over 15,000 employees to resign has proven to be a costly and disruptive endeavor. Now, the agency is scrambling to refill critical positions that were vacated, essentially nullifying any potential cost savings. This situation underscores the need for a more judicious approach to workforce management within federal agencies. The deferred resignation program was intended as a cost-cutting measure, but its implementation has resulted in the opposite effect. Paying employees to leave, only to then recruit and train new hires for the same roles, is an inefficient use of taxpayer dollars. It disrupts continuity and institutional knowledge, ultimately hindering the USDA's ability to carry out its vital mission effectively. I urge you to closely examine the USDA's workforce management practices and ensure that future decisions are driven by sound strategy and fiscal responsibility. Hasty downsizing efforts that fail to account for operational needs and long-term consequences must be avoided. Federal agencies should prioritize retaining experienced personnel and fostering a stable, productive workforce capable of serving the public interest.