EPA Announces Staff Cuts and Reorganization Plans

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revealed on Friday that it will be reducing its workforce significantly. This move is expected to save nearly $750 million out of a projected $1 billion budget.

The cuts will primarily impact the Office of Research and Development (ORD) and involve restructuring within other divisions. As of January 2025, the EPA had over 16,000 employees but anticipates that number will decrease to around 12,500 due to retirements and these reductions.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, the EPA has critically assessed our operations, ensuring our agents are better equipped than ever,” stated Lee Zeldin, the EPA administrator. He emphasized that this reorganization would help the agency focus on its mission to protect human health and the environment while being mindful of taxpayer resources.

In May, the EPA plans to reorganize as part of an initiative from President Trump aimed at reducing government inefficiencies. The changes will not only cut staff but also establish a new office dedicated to applied scientific solutions, which is a way to bring in new talent in the scientific field.

Additionally, the EPA under Zeldin has ceased certain initiatives related to environmental justice and diversity that were introduced during the Biden administration. Zeldin has consistently asserted the importance of returning the agency to its foundational mission of safeguarding human health and the environment.