EPA Staff to Be Cut to 1980s Levels Under Trump Reorganization

President Trump’s administration detailed plans to slash EPA staff drastically—targeting a reduction from about 15,000 employees to near 11,000. Announced by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, the reorg merges or eliminates offices handling climate research and environmental justice. Zeldin insists the leaner workforce will focus on “core missions,” but opponents decry gutting scientific capabilities at a time of rising pollution and climate impacts. Critics fear losing decades of institutional knowledge: many specialized scientists and enforcement personnel may take early retirement or severance. The plan aligns with Trump’s broader push to reduce domestic agencies, returning the EPA to 1980s staffing levels despite significantly expanded statutory responsibilities since then. Environmental groups warn this threatens everything from air quality monitoring to Superfund cleanups, while the administration touts “efficiency” and reliance on state agencies.