VA Announces Massive Layoffs, Sparking Outrage

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plans to lay off tens of thousands of employees later this year, sparking widespread criticism. An internal memo reveals a department-wide review aimed at streamlining management, reducing the agency's size, and improving efficiency. The goal is to reduce staffing levels to 2019 levels (approximately 399,000), down from the current 482,000. Democratic lawmakers strongly condemn the move, arguing it will harm veterans by jeopardizing healthcare access, claims processing, and education benefits. They contend that the VA needs more staff to handle the increased demands from the PACT Act, not fewer.