USDA Relocation Plan Sparks Backlash | Pierre News

USDA workers are fighting back against a controversial plan to relocate over 2,500 employees out of Washington D.C. to five regional hubs, a move Secretary Brooke Rollins claims will save money and bring services closer to the people. But critics argue it’s a thinly veiled attempt to force layoffs, as many won’t relocate — risking critical shortages in pest control, forest protection, and food safety. With over 20,000 staff already leaving since last year, unions fear thousands more will quit rather than uproot their lives. The Forest Service is already feeling the strain, with wildfire response suffering as qualified firefighters are asked to change roles, commute longer, or move — all while legal challenges are underway to block the relocations. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/fa9e9e0781ff4adf