Federal Veterinarians Caught in Controversial "Fork in the Road" Resignation Push – What It Means for Animal Health
In late January 2025, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sent a controversial email titled "Fork in the Road" to approximately 3 million federal employees, including veterinarians working in government roles. This email encouraged employees to consider resigning under a "deferred resignation program," which would allow them to remain on the government payroll until September 30, 2025, while they sought other employment or took extended leave.
Federal Veterinarians and Their Role
Veterinarians employed by the federal government serve in vital roles, including animal health inspection, food safety, public health, and research. Agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) rely on these professionals to ensure food safety, prevent zoonotic disease outbreaks, and maintain animal welfare. The sudden encouragement for federal employees, including veterinarians, to transition out of government roles raises concerns about the stability of these critical services.
Concerns and Opposition
The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) has strongly opposed the resignation program, arguing that it undermines the essential work federal employees perform. For federal veterinarians, a sudden workforce reduction could mean fewer professionals monitoring livestock diseases, regulating food production, and responding to animal-related public health emergencies.
Pension and benefits attorney Matthew J. Vance advises, "Federal employees considering resignation should thoroughly assess how such a decision may affect their pension and benefits. It's essential to consult with a professional to understand the long-term implications on retirement security."
Legal experts also question the legality of the program, warning that while private companies may have the flexibility to downsize this way, the federal government operates under stricter employment laws. If experienced veterinary professionals leave government service en masse, it could create vulnerabilities in food safety and disease prevention efforts.
Employment attorney Omar A. López weighed in on the situation, stating, "Federal employees, including veterinarians, should carefully review any severance offers and consult legal counsel before making a decision. Programs like these may have hidden consequences that could impact retirement benefits, reemployment opportunities, and legal protections.” López adds: “it’s worth pointing out that under current federal law, most federal workers are protected from political affiliation discrimination (being treated differently based on voter affiliation or supporting or failing to support a political candidate). However, there are exceptions for confidential employees or policy making employees, and for very high-level cabinet positions.”
The Office of Personnel Management posted the letter and the most recent guidance to www.opm.gov/fork
How Federal Veterinarians Can Seek Support
Federal veterinarians affected by these workforce changes have several options:
Professional Organizations: Groups like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the National Association of Federal Veterinarians (NAFV) offer legal resources, career guidance, and advocacy.
Union Representation: Employees covered by federal unions, such as AFGE, can seek assistance in challenging workforce changes or negotiating better terms.
Consult with an Employment Attorney: Seeking guidance from an employment attorney who specializes in federal employment law can help veterinarians understand their rights and explore potential legal actions.
Alternative Employment: For those considering leaving government roles, veterinary telemedicine networks and private sector jobs in research, pharmaceuticals, and consulting provide potential career paths.
Mental Health and Financial Counseling: Given the stress of unexpected career changes, federal employees can utilize government-provided Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) for counseling and financial planning.
How to Support Federal Veterinarians
For those looking to support federal veterinarians and ensure their continued role in protecting public and animal health, consider:
Advocacy: Contacting congressional representatives to emphasize the importance of federal veterinary positions in food safety and disease control.
Raising Awareness: Sharing information about the challenges federal veterinarians face through social media and professional networks.
Supporting Veterinary Organizations: Donating to or volunteering with groups that advocate for veterinary professionals in public service.
The "Fork in the Road" email sent to federal employees, including veterinarians, has sparked concerns about the future of government veterinary services. As these professionals navigate uncertainty, it is crucial to provide them with support, advocate for their roles, and recognize the critical work they do in safeguarding public health and animal welfare.
