Health and Human Services to cut 20,000 employees in restructuring plan

Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. says will allow them to do more while saving taxpayers’ money.

Tariffs are not the only topic on the Hill this week. The Department of Health and Human Services (HSS) will soon lay off thousands of workers under DOGE-led restructuring efforts. A move, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said in a press release, would allow the department to do more while saving taxpayers’ money.

Health and Human Services covers agencies like the FDA and CDC. Kennedy says he is releasing 20,000 workers from the Agency, 3,500 of whom will be from the FDA. Kennedy says the FDA will streamline operations while centralizing administrative functions.

The restructuring will cut the Department’s 28 divisions to 15 and could save just under $2 billion a year.

Related Stories
RaboResearch says China’s pivot from mass production to innovation-driven growth could reshape global pesticide supply chains — and influence prices and product access for U.S. farmers in the coming years.
Farmers for Free Trade Executive Director Brian Kuehl shares more about the tour to gather farmers’ insights on the economic challenges they face in the ag economy.
Expect modest relief on several produce lines, mixed protein trends into holiday buying, and softer veg-oil costs — a good week to sharpen forward buys selectively.
USDA will meet part of November SNAP benefits under court direction, citing insufficient funds for full payments.
According to the new report, seven out of ten rural bankers support President Trump’s recent trade steps with China, expressing cautious optimism about future export potential.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Once a year, Army crew chiefs and Black Hawk mechanics undergo live aerial gunnery training—loading, firing, and practicing the teamwork they’ll need in real missions.
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) says recent wins in markets like Malaysia and Cambodia help farmers focus on production rather than trade barriers.
Kubota President Alex Woods discusses the “Geared to Give” program, the company’s commitment to those who served, and how the initiative continues to grow and impact veterans.
Today, we honor the courage, dedication, and service of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces by taking a closer look at their commitment and teamwork in action.
Lucia Ruano, USMEF’s Central America representative, discusses what is driving demand for U.S. beef and pork in the region.