The Department of Defense’s civilian employees will have at least 30 days notice before furloughs take effect if sequestration is enacted March 1, Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta said.
Panetta wrote the department on Wednesday on the preparations for potential sequestration, saying the Pentagon will continue to perform its core mission of protecting the country, but the rigid nature of the cuts will result in “a serious erosion of readiness across the force.”
In his letter, Panetta said he notified Congress that furloughs could happen under sequestration. In addition to the 30 days notice, Panetta said the department will protect employee benefits to the maximum extent possible.
“Our most important asset at the department is our world-class personnel,” Panetta wrote. “You are fighting every day to keep our country strong and secure, and rest assured that the leaders of this department will continue to fight with you and for you.”
