Veterans Affairs Declares Over 130 Occupations Ineligible for Trump’s Deferred Resignation Plan
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has ruled that more than 130 job categories will not qualify for former President Donald Trump’s deferred resignation plan, a move that has sparked frustration among employees and union representatives.
The deferred resignation initiative was introduced as part of broader workforce management reforms, allowing federal employees in eligible roles to delay their resignations under specific conditions. However, the VA’s latest decision significantly limits the scope of the program, excluding a wide range of occupations within the department.
Who Is Affected?
The ineligibility list spans numerous job classifications, from administrative positions to specialized roles in health care, technical services, and support functions. This exclusion has raised concerns that many VA employees will lose access to the program’s intended benefits, which include additional time to secure new employment or transition out of federal service more smoothly.
According to internal VA communications, occupations deemed “critical to operations” or those experiencing chronic staffing shortages were excluded to maintain continuity of services for veterans. This decision has left many employees questioning the criteria used and whether the policy is fair.
“We understand the need to ensure service continuity, but this broad exclusion leaves too many employees without the support they were promised,” said a union representative.
Pushback from Unions and Advocacy Groups
Employee unions and advocacy organizations have criticized the VA’s approach, arguing that the policy disproportionately affects lower-level and mid-level employees who are already dealing with job uncertainty.
“The deferred resignation plan was meant to provide a safety net for federal workers, but this decision undermines that purpose,” said a spokesperson for the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE). “We are calling on the VA to reconsider and adopt a more inclusive policy that reflects the program’s original intent.”
Critics also warn that excluding key roles could have unintended consequences, including reduced morale and potential workforce instability at a time when the VA is already facing challenges in recruiting and retaining qualified personnel.
The Rationale Behind the Decision
VA officials have defended the move, emphasizing the need to prioritize essential services and avoid disruption to veteran care. Occupations related to frontline health care, mental health services, and critical administrative support were deemed too vital to allow extended resignations, according to a VA statement.
The statement further explained that the decision aligns with broader federal workforce policies aimed at ensuring mission-critical operations are not compromised.
What’s Next?
The VA’s policy is expected to undergo further review, with calls from advocacy groups and lawmakers urging greater transparency in the decision-making process. Meanwhile, affected employees are seeking clarity on their options and considering alternative career paths both within and outside federal service.
For those still eligible, the deferred resignation plan offers a limited window to apply, with deadlines fast approaching. Employees are advised to consult with their HR departments to confirm their eligibility and explore potential next steps.
Broader Implications
This latest move by the VA adds to ongoing debates about federal workforce policies and how agencies balance operational needs with employee rights and benefits. As the conversation evolves, experts say the situation underscores the importance of clear communication and consistent policy implementation across federal agencies.
Source : The Cabadian Press
