The U.S. EPA announces plans to lay off over 3,700 employees as part of former President Trump's budget cuts, reducing agency staff by nearly 23%. The moves, intended to cut spending particularly in climate sectors, have sparked backlash from environmental advocates and led to significant agency restructuring.

In a recent announcement that underscores significant governmental shifts, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has confirmed plans to terminate the positions of more than 3,700 employees. This move aligns with former President Donald Trump's overarching policy to curtail government spending, specifically targeting the climate sector-an area he frequently criticized.

As of January, the federal agency responsible for safeguarding clean air, land, and water employed 16,155 individuals. The upcoming third phase of the "Voluntary Separation Incentive Program" is set to decrease this number by 22.9 percent, bringing the workforce down to 12,448 employees.

The reduction strategy includes employees who participated in the delayed resignation program, originally promoted by Elon Musk during Trump's administration as head of the government efficiency board, alongside those opting for early retirement or facing direct layoffs.

"This workforce reduction will enhance our mission effectiveness while safeguarding taxpayers' resources," stated EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin in an official communication.

The restructuring is anticipated to save approximately $748.8 million as the White House aims to slash the EPA’s budget by 54 percent, reducing it to $4.2 billion for fiscal year 2026.

This initiative will lower the number of full-time positions to under 12,856, aligning with the fiscal blueprint proposed by President Trump. Additionally, the agency is disbanding its Office of Research and Development, handing over its responsibilities to a newly established, smaller Office of Applied Science and Environmental Solutions.

This new office will focus on reviewing a vast array of chemicals and pesticides while crafting strategies to tackle the challenges of "forever chemicals"-substances resistant to stains, heat, grease, grime, and moisture.

Zeldin, a prominent advocate for Trump's campaign to dismantle stringent pollution regulations and boost fossil fuel extraction, has faced considerable backlash from scientific communities and environmental activists. Earlier this month, EPA suspended 139 employees following their endorsement of a critical open letter accusing Zeldin of advancing policies detrimental to both humanity and the planet.

The unfolding developments continue to stir a wide array of reactions, as reported by Akhbrna News, reflecting deep divides in the ongoing dialogue about the nation’s environmental policies and future directions.