The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is presenting a critical opportunity to approximately 2.3 million federal civilian employees, offering them the chance to resign by February 6 while retaining their pay and benefits through September 30, 2025. As the acceptance deadline approaches, federal agencies have provided sample contract agreements aimed at formalizing this offer, although uncertainties remain about the potential binding nature of these contracts. The language in these agreements has raised questions, as it contrasts with initial communications from OPM, specifically regarding duties during the transition period.
Employees accepting the offer are reportedly expected to work until February 28 to facilitate a smooth transition before entering paid administrative leave by March 1. Earlier communications did not clarify whether resignation would necessarily lead to administrative leave. The discrepancies have led to confusion, particularly as FAQs from OPM state that employees are not required to work during the resignation period.
Furthermore, a significant update in the contract language includes an acknowledgment that federal agencies lack guaranteed funding beyond March 14, 2025. This situation has raised concerns among legal experts and public employee unions, with calls for caution from officials such as Washington Senator Patty Murray, who highlighted the funding uncertainty.
The sample contracts also stipulate that employees can pursue private sector jobs before September 30 but must adhere to ethics rules which may require prior approval for outside employment. Moreover, new provisions indicate that the agreements cannot be rescinded except at the discretion of agency heads, eliminating employees’ rights to appeal.
Democratic attorneys general from various states have labeled the deferred resignation offer as “misleading,” urging federal employees to heed the guidance of their unions. The response from the administration argues that this offer is a unique opportunity designed to aid employees amid restructuring, urging union leaders to provide accurate information rather than create panic.
As federal employees weigh their options, the implications of this offer and its terms may significantly impact their future and the services provided by the federal government.
