(Hill) – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) began the process of firing hundreds of probation workers on Thursday.
The cut, which is said to affect between 560 and 1,830 workers at the agency, is planned for at least a week, subject to confirmation from Commerce Secretary Howard Luttonick, who oversees the agency. NOAA reported 11,758 permanent workforce in 2023. This means that reductions can affect more than 10% of employees. A source who asked to speak in the background told Hill that the Tuesday began on Thursday and continued on Friday.
One source told Hill that closing letters began to be issued to probation employees at 3:30pm Thursday. The trial status applies to both recent recruits and workers who have recently been promoted.
Tired of winter? NOAA released spring weather forecast
Elon Musk’s Office of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staff reportedly joined the NOAA office earlier this month before Lutonic confirmed. Lutnick rejected plans to dismantle the agency as Secretary of Commerce, but Project 2025 Speauring Consulative Governance Blueprint calls for almost all of its features to be privatized and reassigned. President Trump denied Project 2025 on the campaign trail, but has appointed several architects, including White House Budget Director Russell Vought.
Rep. Jared Huffman (D-Calif), a top Democrat on the House Natural Resources Committee, condemned the shooting reported Thursday afternoon.
“The fake mask mission has brought critical programs to the halt of screeches. People across the country rely on NOAA for free and accurate forecasts, harsh weather warnings and emergency information. To oust governments of scientists, experts and career civil servants and cut down basic programs is a life-saving thing,” Huffman said in a statement. “My Democrat colleagues and I will continue to fight in state and federal courts, in Congressional halls and public opinion courts. This is a betrayal of the American people and I cannot stand it.”
Oka reached out to NOAA and the Department of Commerce for comments.
Rachel Frazin contributed.
Source link
