The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is set to undergo a new round of layoffs, with the Office of Personnel Management being paid over $726,000 to consult on the process. This interagency agreement outlines OPM’s role in ensuring regulatory compliance and policy adherence during the VA’s workforce reorganization.
This proposed staff reduction at the VA may be the largest under the Trump administration so far. In March, the VA began cutting staff and terminating vendor contracts with the help of the Department of Government Efficiency. Lawmakers expressed concerns about potential threats to veterans’ care and patient data security.
Similarly, the Department of Health and Human Services announced a significant agency transformation involving the consolidation of divisions and regional offices, resulting in the termination of 20,000 staff members. These mass layoffs at HHS raised alarms about the loss of critical IT, policy, and contracting expertise within the agency.
Despite initial reversals of some terminations, HHS proceeded with larger-scale layoffs, emphasizing that the cuts targeted redundant or unnecessary administrative positions. However, former employees highlighted the impact on essential IT functions and contracting expertise.
As the VA moves forward with its own staff reductions, Cheryl Mason, a senior advisor to VA Secretary Doug Collins and nominee for the VA Office of Inspector General, faced scrutiny from lawmakers. During her nomination hearing, Mason clarified that she had not been involved in any terminations to date and emphasized her role in gathering and conveying information about VA administrations.
Lawmakers questioned the potential conflict of interest in Mason’s dual roles as an advisor to senior VA leaders and an independent investigator. Despite her assurances of independence, concerns were raised about her ability to impartially investigate decisions made by VA leadership.
In light of non-disclosure agreements reportedly being asked of VA staff, Senator Angus King urged Mason to investigate their legality. He emphasized the importance of transparency in the VA’s reorganization plans and compliance with the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act.
As the situation unfolds, it remains crucial for oversight and accountability measures to ensure the well-being of VA employees and the effective delivery of services to veterans. Stay tuned for updates on the VA’s staffing changes and the impact on its operations.
