The recent federal layoffs in Western North Carolina are drawing attention to the impact of the Trump administration’s cuts, particularly within national parks and federal agencies in the area.
Brandee Morris, president of the local AFGE chapter, highlighted that many federal employees, including those at the Veterans Affairs, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Pisgah National Forest, were affected by terminations, with probationary employees bearing the brunt.
These layoffs are especially concerning in the context of ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene, as essential staff like wildlife biologists are being cut.
Morris and the AFGE are organizing a protest on February 21 to address the issue, and they’re also pursuing legal action, including discussions with Senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd.
The AFGE plans to challenge the layoffs through lawsuits, which could lead to lengthy back pay battles at the taxpayer’s expense.
The long-term effects could strain local federal services, particularly in vital environmental and conservation efforts.
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