Rep. Jim Costa Calls on Trump for Immediate Action to Protect San Joaquin Valley Federal Workers
WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) is calling on President Donald Trump to immediately address the confusion and uncertainty caused by its recently announced “Deferred Resignation” program, which forces nearly all 2.3 million civilian federal employees to decide whether to resign by February 6, 2025, or risk termination as agencies downsize.
In a letter sent to President Trump, Costa denounced Trump’s policy as “misleading, coercive, and legally questionable,” emphasizing the devastating impact on federal employees in the San Joaquin Valley.
“In my district alone, approximately 5,000 federal employees—who process tax returns, protect our food supply, care for our veterans, and safeguard our environment—are being pressured into making a life-changing decision with little clarity on the consequences,” Costa wrote. “This program threatens not only their livelihoods but also the essential services that millions of Americans rely on.”
“This is no way to treat the men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving the American people,” Costa further wrote. “Federal employees are not expendable. They are the backbone of our government, and we cannot allow this administration to force them out through confusion and coercion.”
BACKGROUND
Federal employees in the San Joaquin Valley are the driving force behind critical services like IRS employees processing tax returns, VA staff providing vital health care and benefits to veterans, and USDA workers safeguarding food safety during the avian flu outbreak, which cost California farmers over $700 million.
The Trump Administration’s plan offers federal employees continued pay and benefits through September 30, 2025, if they resign immediately. However, with government funding only secured until March 14, 2025, there is no certainty that these promises will be upheld. However conflicting messages from federal agencies and unclear contractual terms have left employees unsure about the future of their pensions, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) accounts, and long-term job security.
If you are a federal employee and need further assistance, call our Fresno District Office at (559) 495-1620.
View the full text of the letter HERE.