The Trump administration says it will cut EPA staffing to Reagan-era levels

npr.orgPublished: 5/3/2025

Summary

The Trump administration is drastically reorganizing the EPA, aiming to reduce staffing levels to 1980s-era numbers under President Reagan, which could cut thousands of jobs. This restructuring includes moving scientific staff from ORD into policy offices and creating new ones, prompting concerns about reduced research capabilities. Experts warn that budget cuts, including a potential 65% reduction in overall agency funding and nearly half of ORD's budget, will significantly impact the EPA's research efforts, which are critical for protecting public health and the environment.