Implementing The President’s “Department of Government Efficiency” Workforce Optimization Initiative

On February 11, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order to implement the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) Workforce Optimization Initiative. This order aims to streamline the federal workforce by reducing its size through efficiency improvements and attrition. Key measures include instituting a hiring ratio where agencies can hire no more than one employee for every four who depart, with exceptions for public safety, immigration enforcement, and law enforcement roles. Agency heads are directed to develop data-driven hiring plans in consultation with their DOGE Team Leads to ensure that new hires are allocated to high-need areas. Additionally, agencies are instructed to prepare for large-scale reductions in force (RIFs) and to separate temporary employees and reemployed annuitants in areas anticipated to be downsized. The initiative seeks to eliminate waste and enhance accountability within the federal government.