Sustained investment in science is more vital than ever to support rigorous research, strengthen public health systems, and safeguard and improve human health. Behind every scientific breakthrough and regulatory decision is an infrastructure that enables researchers, policymakers, and public health professionals to do their work effectively. When you eliminate entire divisions or significant portions of public health–focused agencies, you are putting human health at risk in many ways.
The recent layoffs within the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) raise serious concerns about the future of public health research, regulatory oversight, and our ability to respond to real threats to human, animal, and environmental health.
- It has been reported that 3,500 jobs in the US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) are being eliminated, including many in the US FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. The staff of this center, which includes SOT members, is responsible for providing guidance regarding drug development. A major staff reduction means that drug development and approval could begin to slow down, affecting public health in the long term.
- Similarly, two-thirds of the staff at the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are slated for elimination. NIOSH delivers real-world impact—preventing workplace injuries, mitigating chronic exposures, addressing mental health challenges, and saving lives. NIOSH, its staff (including SOT members), and policies protect the American workforce, especially in critical sectors such as construction, mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare.
- At the National Institutes of Health, in addition to hundreds of staff members that facilitate both intramural and extramural research (including that of SOT members), four directors have been removed from their positions (NIAID, NICHD, NIMHD, NINR), representing a stunning loss of scientific leadership that could affect our nation for years to come.
These large-scale reductions in staff threaten scientific research, our ability to respond to health crises and emerging challenges, and our nation’s long-standing position as a global leader in innovation and discovery. We also risk falling behind in critical advancements that drive economic growth, improve quality of life, and ensure national security in an increasingly competitive world.
If you are interested in sharing your perspective, there are several ways to connect with your representatives in the US Congress. Contact information for Senators and House Representatives is available at www.congress.gov/members, where you can also find links to their official websites, which often include online contact forms. For those who prefer other methods of communication, the US Capitol Switchboard (202.224.3121) can connect you directly to your legislators’ offices. Additionally, attending town hall meetings or engaging with congressional staff through scheduled meetings are avenues some may find helpful for discussing these issues. To learn more about engaging with Congress, you can visit www.usa.gov/elected-officials or reference the SOT blog “What You Can Do to Speak Up for Science.”
This statement is being shared under the SOT President’s name as part of their official duties and should not be interpreted as their personal or professional opinions.