Sun Feb 16 21:57:00 UTC 2025: ## Mass Firings Hit FDA as Trump Administration Cuts Federal Workforce

**Washington, D.C. – February 17, 2025** – The Trump administration’s ongoing effort to reduce the size of the federal workforce has resulted in the dismissal of recently hired employees at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Hundreds of probationary employees received termination notices Saturday evening, impacting centers responsible for food, medical devices, and tobacco products, including e-cigarette oversight. The exact number of layoffs remains unclear.

This action follows a Friday announcement by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to fire 5,200 probationary employees across its agencies, including the CDC and NIH. While the HHS initially planned to lay off nearly 1,300 CDC employees, approximately 700 have so far received notices. Importantly, the CDC’s Epidemic Intelligence Service, comprised of young doctors and researchers, was reportedly unaffected.

The FDA, employing nearly 20,000 people, has been a frequent target of criticism from HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr., who previously accused the agency of hindering public health. While Kennedy advocated for eliminating certain chemicals and food colorings, the recent cuts impact staff responsible for reviewing the safety of new food additives and ingredients. HHS has not yet commented on the situation.

Critics argue that the layoffs could be counterproductive. A former FDA official highlighted the risk of losing younger employees with up-to-date skills, given the agency’s aging workforce. Others expressed concern that the firings would damage morale and hinder the ability to attract and retain talent, especially within the already strained inspection force. The FDA’s inspection backlog, including thousands of uninspected drug facilities, further underscores the potential consequences of these reductions. The impact on drug review staff remains unknown. The cuts will also not reduce government spending, as nearly half of the FDA’s budget comes from fees paid by regulated companies.

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