Many employees at the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) face tough decisions. An internal poll shows that over 80% of them would rather leave their jobs than relocate across the country.
Last month, USDA announced plans to move most FNS employees to different regions, citing a need to streamline operations. But for many workers, relocating isn’t an option due to family commitments or their spouse’s careers. Union officials reveal that even those willing to move are considering other job opportunities shortly after the move.
FNS is vital, serving about 82 million Americans through programs like SNAP and WIC. Alarmingly, the agency has already lost more than a third of its workforce since the Trump administration. Over 15,000 USDA employees accepted early retirement or deferred resignation last year, raising concerns about its ability to manage essential services effectively.
Recent surveys indicate a high level of uncertainty among employees. For instance, 81% of SNAP staff, 78% of child nutrition employees, and 90% of WIC workers expressed their unwillingness to relocate. This trend suggests a potential staffing crisis that could affect program reliability.
Historically, relocations during the first Trump administration saw about 85% of affected employees resign or retire instead of moving. Union representatives expect similar outcomes this time, with many employees likely to decline relocation offers once again.
USDA wants to save money by moving employees to locations with lower living costs, claiming it will enhance service delivery. However, union officials argue that FNS operates primarily online with minimal public interface. The reorganization might disrupt ongoing work, especially as the agency addresses recently passed SNAP eligibility changes under the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act.
Experts are weighing in on the possible fallout. Joel Berg, CEO of Hunger Free America, highlights concerns that these relocations could severely impact FNS’s ability to serve vulnerable populations. If Congress allows these changes, he warns, it could diminish the agency’s effectiveness for years to come.
Currently, the USDA plans to relocate SNAP employees to Indianapolis, child nutrition staff to Dallas, and several others to various hubs across the nation. While the department hasn’t disclosed the full cost of these changes, initial budget requests indicate significant expenditures for consolidation efforts in D.C.
In summary, the USDA’s plan to relocate FNS employees raises questions about future staffing and service efficacy. With many employees unwilling to move, it remains to be seen how the agency will adapt and maintain its critical role in feeding millions of Americans.
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agriculture department,american federation of government employees,amy rosenthal,food and nutrition service,national treasury employees union,snap,stephen vaden
