NSF Workforce Reclassification Sparks Outrage

The National Science Foundation controversially reclassified hundreds of employees from permanent to probationary status, provoking criticism from lawmakers. This reclassification was part of a directive under President Trump's administration to reduce the federal workforce. As a result, approximately 170 employees were terminated, raising concerns about job security and due process.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is facing backlash after reclassifying hundreds of employees from permanent to probationary status, a move seen as violating labor contracts. Criticism came from U.S. lawmakers and agency workers affected by this controversial change.

The reclassification was implemented following a directive from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) after President Trump took office, aiming to downsize the federal workforce. Representative Don Beyer has voiced strong concerns over this shift, noting it exposes workers to termination without due process.

This change led to the firing of 170 employees, 86 of whom were probationary, constituting nearly 10% of NSF's workforce. The agency is currently preparing a response to Beyer's demands for reinstating the terminated employees and reversing the reclassification.

(With inputs from agencies.)