The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is preparing to reduce its workforce by approximately 82,000 employees, according to internal communications obtained by U.S. media. The move aims to return staffing levels to those seen in 2019, when the agency employed fewer than 400,000 people.
Christopher Syrek, VA Chief of Staff, outlined the plan in a memo to senior officials this week. While details about timeline and methodology remain unclear, the proposed cuts represent roughly 17% of the agency's current workforce. Analysts suggest this could impact healthcare services for millions of veterans amid ongoing challenges in VA hospital capacity.
The proposal comes as the VA manages expanded healthcare eligibility under recent legislation while confronting staffing shortages in critical roles. Labor unions have expressed concern about potential disruptions to veteran care and the economic consequences for affected workers.
Historical data shows VA staffing grew significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic to address backlogs and evolving healthcare needs. Critics argue that maintaining current service levels with reduced personnel may prove challenging, particularly in rural areas with limited healthcare alternatives.
