ST. PAUL, MN - Governor Tim Walz today announced a new resource for federal employees who have recently lost their jobs or are facing employment uncertainty. Minnesota’s tight labor market continues to be a challenge for businesses looking to hire in Minnesota, with less than one person unemployed for every job opening available. The initiative comes as the Trump administration, led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), seeks to lay off tens of thousands of dedicated public servants.

“In Minnesota, we value the experience and expertise of federal workers, even if Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and DOGE do not,” said Governor Walz. “Government workers provide services each of us relies on – from park rangers to firefighters to medical personnel who care for our veterans. If the Trump administration turned you away, Minnesota wants you.”

There are around 18,000 federal employees in Minnesota. President Trump’s planned federal cuts include the potential elimination of 80,000 jobs from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Reducing the Department of Veterans Affairs workforce to Pre-Pact Act levels would have negative impacts on veteran health care and potential disruptions to benefits. Veterans make up nearly 25% of the Department of Veterans Affairs workforce.

Minnesota’s federal workers can visit the Minnesota Careers Website to learn about available resources including:

• Job search and application preparation, including in-person and online workshops, resume reviews, and networking opportunities
• Resources for veterans
• Instructions to apply for Unemployment Insurance benefits.

“Mass layoffs have an economic impact on communities, not to mention families and workers experiencing them firsthand,” said Matt Varilek, Commissioner of the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). “During this time of heightened uncertainty, DEED staff is ready to help you find your next job through CareerForce, access unemployment benefits while you look for work, or connect you to training opportunities for the next phase of your career.”

“The State of Minnesota is a great place to work, with jobs in a wide variety of fields focused on providing essential services and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans,” said MMB Commissioner Erin Campbell. “We welcome applications from federal workers, who understand the power of public service to improve lives.”