USDA to Slash D.C. Presence, Relocate Staff to Regional Hubs

Rollins’ Plan Aims to Cut Costs, Refocus on Farmers, but Sparks Workforce Concerns

Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins announced a sweeping USDA reorganization, relocating over half of its 4,600 National Capital Region employees to five regional hubs in Raleigh, NC, Kansas City, MO, Indianapolis, IN, Fort Collins, CO, and Salt Lake City, UT.

The move, aimed at cutting costs and aligning with American agriculture, addresses a bloated workforce that grew 8% with a 14.5% salary hike over four years, despite no clear service gains.

The USDA will vacate major facilities, including the South Building and Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, citing $1.3 billion in deferred maintenance.

While 15,364 employees opted for voluntary retirements, concerns linger about oversight and staff retention.

Rollins insists critical functions like food safety will remain intact, but critics warn of potential disruptions.