In a significant move affecting the federal workforce, hundreds of employees at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) found themselves without jobs on Thursday.
This development, confirmed by lawmakers and weather experts, has raised concerns about the future of crucial weather forecasting services across the nation.
According to The Associated Press, the layoffs involved two rounds of cuts, impacting approximately 10% of NOAA's workforce. Craig McLean, a former NOAA chief scientist, revealed that the first wave targeted probationary employees, including meteorologists responsible for essential local forecasts at National Weather Service offices. McLean noted that the cuts comprised two groups, one of 500 and another of 800 employees.
These dismissals align with efforts spearheaded by billionaire Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency, aiming to streamline what President Donald Trump has criticized as an overstaffed and inefficient federal workforce. This initiative has already resulted in the termination of thousands of probationary employees across various government sectors.
The decision has sparked outrage among some lawmakers. Rep. Grace Meng, D-N.Y., condemned the action, stating, Today, hundreds of employees at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), including weather forecasters at the National Weather Service (NWS), were given termination notices for no good reason. This is unconscionable.
She emphasized the critical role these employees play in safeguarding lives and property from natural disasters. Rep. Jared Huffman, a California Democrat, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the dismissal of "hundreds of scientists and experts at NOAA."
As the federal government continues its push for efficiency, the impact of these layoffs on public safety and disaster preparedness remains a pressing concern. The debate over the balance between reducing government size and maintaining essential services is likely to persist.
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