State Department Plans to Lay Off Over 1,300 Employees
The U.S. State Department has announced a significant restructuring plan that will lead to the layoff of more than 1,300 employees. This decision impacts 1,107 civil servants and 246 foreign service staff working domestically in the U.S.
According to confidential sources within the department, affected employees will receive individual notification via email. Notably, one foreign service official mentioned being placed on 120 days of administrative leave before the termination becomes official. Typically, the standard separation period for federal employees is around 60 days.
In a statement regarding the restructuring, the department acknowledged the need to streamline its domestic operations to better align with diplomatic priorities. The notice emphasized that layoffs would primarily target non-essential functions, overlapping offices, and areas where efficiency could be enhanced through consolidation.
Additionally, Michael Rigas, the Associate Secretary of Management and Resources, sent an internal message indicating that he would be contacting affected domestic employees about the impending reductions in force (RIF) shortly.
He pointed out that over the last 25 years, the expansion of various bureaus and offices has led to confusion and overlap, hindering the department’s ability to swiftly address new global threats and uphold U.S. interests abroad.
Officials noted that there are currently more than 700 national offices with around 18,000 personnel of which many will see changes aimed at reducing redundancy and redistributing resources to local offices and overseas embassies.
According to the department, many cross-cutting functions will be moved, reflecting a broader strategy for operational efficiency.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce cautioned that the agency would proceed quickly in implementing these changes, especially following a temporary lower court ruling that had previously restricted military cuts across federal agencies.
Despite these layoffs, senior officials reassured that there are currently no plans to close embassies or missions abroad. They also emphasized a commitment to treating affected workers with respect.
Authorities expressed, “We will work to protect the dignity of federal workers. It’s essential to be sensitive during this process, ensuring that personnel receive the necessary support and are treated fairly.”
