What does a Reduction in Force (RIF) entail?

A Reduction in Force (RIF) specifically refers to the process of separating employees from their jobs due to budgetary constraints or lack of funding. This can happen in various sectors, including government and private organizations, when there is a need to reduce personnel to alleviate financial difficulties. The primary focus of a RIF is to cut costs, which may involve layoffs or the elimination of certain positions deemed non-essential.

In contrast, the other options revolve around different situations in the employment context. Temporary reassignments to different roles typically do not involve separation but rather altering where an employee works within the organization. Mandatory training described in another option focuses on skill development rather than workforce reduction. Likewise, an increase in employee responsibilities suggests an expansion of roles rather than a decrease in workforce size associated with a RIF. Thus, option B accurately captures the essence of what a RIF involves in terms of employment consequences.