In response to a congressional request, GAO obtained information on the extent to which selected federal agencies' employees may be retiring to avoid the consequences of proposed legislation to change the taxation of annuities.

GAO reviewed data from agencies with responsibilities for national security, public safety, space exploration, and basic research. GAO found that the number of voluntary retirements during the first three quarters of fiscal year (FY) 1986 increased in 7 of the 8 agencies, compared to the same period in FY 1985. GAO also found that retirements in all agencies were greater in June 1986 than in June 1985.