RFK Jr. Shuts Down HHS FOIA Offices, Reinstates Programs and Employees
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., in a controversial move, has shuttered several Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) offices within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This decision, announced on April 3, 2025, has sparked a significant backlash from transparency advocates who argue that it undermines public access to crucial government information.
In a surprising turn of events, RFK Jr. also announced the reinstatement of programs and employees previously cut from HHS. This move aims to address the concerns raised by the public and employees affected by earlier job cuts. Critics, however, point out that the closure of FOIA offices contradicts the spirit of openness and accountability.
The decision to close the FOIA offices has been met with confusion and criticism, with some reports suggesting that the move was a mistake. Despite this, RFK Jr. remains steadfast in his decision, emphasizing the need for a more streamlined and efficient HHS. The reinstatement of programs and employees is seen as an attempt to mitigate the fallout from the FOIA office closures.
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How many employees are at HHS?
In total, and including roughly 10,000 people who have left over the last few months through early retirement or deferred resignation programs, the overall staff at HHS will fall from 82,000 to around 62,000 -- or about a fourth of its workforce. 'This is a difficult moment for all of us at HHS.
What federal health workers are being laid off?
The White House said last week that it planned to cut 3,500 full-time employees at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and 2,400 workers from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The administration has said it is cutting 1,200 employees from the National Institutes of Health, as well.
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