The Veterans Affairs Department announced plans to reduce its workforce by 30,000 employees by the end of September, relying solely on attrition rather than involuntary layoffs. This decision marks a significant change from earlier intentions to cut nearly three times that number through large-scale reductions. The agency has already reduced its staff by 17,000 since January and aims to cut an additional 12,000 using incentives such as early retirement offers and deferred resignations, which allow employees to take paid leave prior to their exit.
VA Secretary Doug Collins stated that the department is focusing on reducing bureaucracy and enhancing services for veterans. He assured that while a comprehensive reduction in force (RIF) is off the table, targeted layoffs cannot be entirely ruled out. The original plan for mass layoffs had garnered bipartisan concern, which prompted the department to reconsider its approach. Collins highlighted that meetings have shifted focus towards reorganizing efforts instead of laying off employees.
Support for the new direction has come from some members of Congress, including House Veterans Affairs Committee Chair Rep. Mike Bost, who expressed confidence in Secretary Collins. In contrast, the American Federation of Government Employees criticized the changes, arguing they stemmed from widespread employee dissatisfaction and could harm morale within the department.
Senator Richard Blumenthal and Representative Mark Takano voiced concerns that the cuts would harm the effectiveness of VA services and damage veterans’ trust in the agency. They attributed the high rate of employee losses to a negative work culture fostered by the administration.
As the VA moves forward with these changes, it’s also exploring additional reforms aimed at streamlining operations, including centralizing various support functions and consolidating its numerous call centers. These efforts reflect a desire to improve efficiency and enhance service delivery to veterans while navigating workforce challenges.
In light of this situation, there is an opportunity for the VA to foster an environment that values employee morale and engagement, ensuring that its primary mission of serving veterans remains uncompromised.