This week, there were reports of job cuts at various government agencies, especially affecting those involved in environmental justice. Around 170 employees from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights have been placed on administrative leave.
According to The Wall Street Journal, this office plays a crucial role in handling civil rights disputes and ensuring fair treatment in decisions that impact people’s health and the environment. This work stems from a Clinton-era executive order aimed at involving all communities—regardless of their background—in these processes.
On a call, Theresa Segovia, acting Assistant Administrator of the Office, informed employees that those whose roles focused heavily on environmental justice would be put on leave. This news followed a memo from Attorney General Pam Bondi, which rescinded existing environmental justice programs at the Justice Department to promote fair administration of justice.
In a related move, the Justice Department closed its own Office of Environmental Justice, established in 2022, affecting four employees. An additional 20 staffers in the Environment and Natural Resources Division are set to face layoffs.
The Energy Department is also undergoing changes. Important pages related to environmental justice now lead back to the main DOE site, reflecting a shift toward prioritizing energy dominance under the current administration. Reports indicated that 25 employees from the Office of Energy Justice Policy and Analysis have recently been put on leave.
Additionally, there was an attempt by the Trump administration to encourage federal employees to take “deferred resignations.” While a court blocked this initiative temporarily, officials have since extended the deadline for resignations through February 10. They clarified that the program is still active.
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justice department, energy department, environmental protection agency, pam bondi, environmental justice
