Federal Judge Greenlights Controversial Resignation Program

A federal judge in Boston recently made a significant ruling that allows the controversial deferred resignation program to continue. The program, which faced a temporary setback due to a restraining order, was challenged by three federal unions. However, the judge determined that these unions did not have a direct stake in the matter, as the program primarily affects executive branch employees. This decision means the program can proceed, but it does not end the legal battle entirely. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) had planned to close the program to new participants last Thursday, but the judge's decision allows it to continue. The OPM has stated that the program is both legal and beneficial for federal employees, providing them with generous benefits to plan for their futures. As of last week, 65, 000 federal employees had signed up for the program, but the final number has not yet been released.The American Federation of Government Employees, one of the unions involved in the lawsuit, is considering its next steps. The union argues that the program is illegal because it promises payments to employees without proper congressional funding. The Antideficiency Act bars federal agencies from obligating funds that Congress has not yet appropriated. The unions claim that without knowing the future funding levels, the program's promises are improper. Judge George O’Toole did not directly address these claims but stated that the unions need to follow the proper administrative process before suing in federal court. This includes seeking relief through the Merit Systems Protection Board. However, the unions argue that recent actions by the Trump administration, such as firing the chairs of the Federal Labor Relations Authority and the Merit Systems Protection Board, have weakened these entities and undermined their ability to provide meaningful review. The unions believe that federal employees' ability to seek relief has been compromised by these actions. They contend that the program forces employees to make critical decisions without adequate information, potentially uprooting their families and careers for what they describe as an unfunded promise. The unions maintain that the program is illegal and are considering their next legal steps.