Trump Administration Cuts 388 EPA Jobs Amid Policy Shift

In a significant move aligning with President Donald Trump's "energy dominance" agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on Friday the termination of 388 employees hired within the past two years. This decision is part of a broader federal workforce reduction, with thousands of probationary employees across various agencies receiving termination notices.

The EPA stated that a comprehensive review of its probationary staff—those with less than two years of service—preceded these terminations. EPA spokesperson Molly Vaseliou commented, "EPA has terminated 388 probationary employees after a thorough review of agency functions in accordance with President Trump's executive orders."

The communication process regarding these layoffs led to confusion within the agency, as affected employees were notified verbally, according to three EPA sources. This action follows the recent administrative leave of nearly 200 employees involved in environmental justice initiatives and the management of key websites tracking pollution-impacted areas.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin is tasked with leading the agency's efforts to roll back regulations established during former President Joe Biden's tenure. These previous rules aimed to reduce carbon emissions, promote electric vehicle adoption, and support low-income and minority communities disproportionately affected by pollution. A critical aspect of Zeldin's role includes evaluating the potential revocation of the scientific finding that authorizes the EPA to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from various sectors.

These developments have raised concerns among environmental advocates and policymakers about the future direction of the EPA and its commitment to addressing environmental justice and climate change.