During recent testimony, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins revealed the USDA's intent to fill critical positions after approximately 15,000 employees accepted a deferred resignation deal. This controversial program was part of the Trump administration's efforts to reduce federal workforce size. The quick need to recruit for newly vacant positions prompted concerns from lawmakers about the rationale behind layoffs, especially with a significant annual attrition rate. Rollins noted openness to dialogue with former employees about returning to their roles, indicating an ongoing struggle for workforce balance amid the transition.
"We are actively looking and recruiting to fill those positions that are integral to the efforts and the key frontlines," Rollins told members of the Senate Appropriations Committee on Tuesday.
Sen. Patty Murray raised concerns, stating, 'So you let people go and you're looking for new people to fill the positions that they had experience in?' Rollins noted the complexities of workforce dynamics.
Rollins emphasized that the 15,000 employees represent less than 15% of USDA's workforce, highlighting ongoing attrition rates of 8,000 to 10,000 annually.
She also expressed willingness to bring back some of the employees who accepted the deferred resignation program, stating, 'If they want to come back, and if they were in a key position, then we would love to have that conversation.'
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