US Environmental Protection Agency says has cut 3,707 positions since January

US Environmental Protection Agency says has cut 3,707 positions since January

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced significant organizational changes and workforce reductions. As of July 2025, the agency has cut a total of 3,707 positions since January. This move is part of broader efforts to realign the agency's operations and reduce costs.

Reorganization and Buyouts

The EPA has been undergoing a series of reorganizations and buyout programs to streamline its operations. In a press release, the EPA stated that it would "re-align" the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance to better focus on delivering economic prosperity and regulatory compliance. This office, which houses the agency's environmental enforcement personnel, has been subject to significant changes [1].

The agency has also offered multiple rounds of buyouts to employees. In May, the EPA announced a reorganization phase that involved transferring scientific experts to the agency's chemicals office. Additionally, in July, the EPA offered a third round of voluntary separation incentives to a portion of its workforce [2]. This program, known as the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP) 3.0, allows eligible employees to take administrative leave and eventually separate from the agency.

Impact on Staffing

The EPA's fiscal 2026 budget proposal called for a 54% cut in current spending levels and a reduction of nearly 1,300 positions from its workforce. The House Appropriations Committee has moved forward with a spending bill that would cut the EPA's current $9.13 billion by 23% next year. These cuts have led to significant reductions in staffing, particularly within the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance and the Office of Research and Development [2].

Office Space and Museum Closures

In addition to workforce reductions, the EPA is downsizing its office space in the national capital region. The agency plans to completely move personnel out of the Ronald Reagan Building by this summer and relocate them to other nearby office buildings. This move will impact about 650 EPA employees, including those working in the Office of Research and Development. Furthermore, the EPA is shutting down the National Environmental Museum, a one-room space located within the agency's headquarters [1].

Conclusion

The EPA's recent organizational changes and workforce reductions reflect a broader effort to streamline operations and reduce costs. While these changes may have significant impacts on the agency's ability to enforce environmental laws and conduct research, they also aim to improve efficiency and fiscal responsibility. As the EPA continues to navigate these changes, it remains committed to fulfilling its statutory obligations and upholding fiscal responsibility.

References

[1] https://www.aol.com/epa-offer-round-buyouts-realign-194420220.html
[2] https://federalnewsnetwork.com/workforce/2025/07/epa-sends-third-deferred-resignation-offer-to-some-employees/