Trump Administration Targets Massive Cuts to Federal Health Workforce
The Trump administration is planning significant layoffs at U.S. health agencies, potentially affecting thousands of federal health workers97.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which employs over 80,000 people, is expected to face widespread downsizing7.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other healthcare agencies are likely targets for workforce reductions7.
These planned cuts are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to reduce the size of the federal workforce13.
A "deferred resignation" program was offered to federal employees, with over 40,000 indicating their intention to resign, representing about 2% of the workforce5.
The administration expects 5-10% of the federal workforce to accept the buyout offer5.
A federal judge has temporarily halted the buyout program, extending the deadline for employees to decide41.
Concerns have been raised about potential impacts on vital services affecting average Americans, including healthcare and public health programs3.
The White House has ordered agency heads to provide lists of employees with poor performance ratings, suggesting targeted dismissals1.
Labor unions and Democrats have criticized the plan, questioning its legality and the administration's ability to fulfill its promises5.
Sources:
1. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/us-judge-blocks-trump-buyout-program-as-60000-sign-up-to-quit/articleshow/117997185.cms
3. https://www.kuow.org/stories/trump-wants-to-cut-the-federal-workforce-who-they-are-and-what-that-means
4. https://www.scrippsnews.com/politics/president-trumps-first-100-days/president-trumps-buyout-deadline-of-federal-workers-delayed-by-judge
5. https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/federal-employees-face-deferred-resignation-deadline-amid-legitimacy-questions/3837714/
7. https://firstwordpharma.com/story/5933406
9. https://endpts.com/trump-healthcare-transition-live-updates-biotech-pharma-news/