Trump Administration Plans to Reduce EPA Workforce to 1980s Levels

The Trump administration is set to dramatically restructure the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), trimming its workforce significantly and shifting priorities.

Major Overhaul for EPA's Scientific Division

Planned revisions will affect the Office of Research and Development (ORD), which conducts essential studies on the effects of pollutants on human health and supports vital regulations like the Clean Air Act.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin anticipates reducing the number of agency employees to levels seen during Ronald Reagan's presidency, aiming for improved efficiency.

This reduction could lead to thousands less in the workforce. During the Reagan years, employee numbers varied between 11,000 and 14,000.

Reforming the Research Wing

Significant changes are expected in ORD. Many scientific positions will be reallocated to existing regulatory divisions, while some staff will be assigned to newly formed departments.

In a recent briefing, EPA leaders informed ORD personnel to anticipate workforce reductions soon.

Ex-EPA official Jennifer Orme-Zavaleta warns these changes could compromise the agency's research capabilities.

She argues that fragmenting expertise jeopardizes public and national safety.

The Integral Role of ORD

ORD has historically offered unbiased analyses on environmental threats like air pollution and water contaminants while assisting in developing protective regulations.

For instance, ORD researchers were pioneers in pinpointing health risks associated with PFAS and ozone inhalation, both critical for policy-setting.

Budget and Research Cuts Loom

Zeldin reiterated a target to enhance EPA's efficiency while announcing budgetary cuts. The administration aims to slash ORD's funding by approximately 45%.

Chris Frey, formerly leading ORD, cautions that such steep cuts could broadly impair EPA's research efforts.

Zeldin claims the restructuring is intended to save $300 million by 2026, equating to a 3% budget reduction.

Staff Concerns Amid Restructuring

During a recent meeting, officers were asked to seek one of 500 new roles, amidst existing fears of a 1,500-strong ORD facing job losses.

An anonymous EPA scientist likened the situation to a game of musical chairs, doubting whether enough spaces will remain for all.

The reorganization comes after the closure of divisions focusing on environmental justice and diversity, resulting in the displacement of 280 employees and reassignment of 175.

This shift aligns with broader federal scientific budget cuts under the Trump administration, impacting various research bodies.