Cleared to Lay Off Workers, Some Federal Agencies Find Many Already Left

Nearly six months into President Trump’s second term, voluntary departures from the government have thinned the ranks so much that some agencies are saying more cuts aren’t necessary after all.

The Department of Veterans Affairs and the Labor Department say retirements and volunteer attrition have helped the agencies meet the administration’s desired efficiencies and reductions. And Trump’s pick to lead the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has said he plans to actually add staff to the National Weather Service after previous cuts.