U.S. FDA reverses office mandate, allows key staff to work remotely
MARYLAND, UNITED STATES — The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reversed its recent mandate requiring employees to return to the office, allowing key staffers to telework two days a week.
This decision comes in response to mounting concerns that layoffs and resignations could jeopardize critical functions such as drug approvals.
An internal email obtained by The Associated Press confirmed the policy shift, which applies to review staff handling drugs, vaccines, biotech products, medical devices, and tobacco.
FDA Commissioner Marty Makary approved the change as part of efforts to stabilize operations following last week’s dismissal of approximately 3,400 employees—more than 15% of the agency’s workforce.
Chaotic workforce overhaul sparks concerns
The layoffs have disrupted FDA operations, with entire offices focusing on policy, communications, and food inspections eliminated. Employees returning to the Maryland headquarters last month reported overcrowded offices and shortages of supplies.
Former FDA Commissioner Dr. David Kessler described the cuts as “devastating, haphazard, thoughtless and chaotic” during a House hearing on Wednesday.
Despite assurances from Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. that medical reviewers and safety inspectors would be spared, resignations and retirements have compounded the crisis. Staffers described employees “pouring” out of the agency amid job insecurity and uncertainty.
Commissioner Makary focuses on rebuilding
FDA Commissioner Marty Makary has prioritized rebuilding teams and restoring productivity after weeks of turmoil. “Dr. Makary needs to rebuild teams and restart the engine of productivity lost to weeks of job insecurity,” said Steven Grossman, a former HHS official. He emphasized that reinstating telework is a step toward stabilizing operations and retaining staff.
Meanwhile, a recent Washington Post-Ipsos survey reveals a division among U.S. federal workers regarding President Donald Trump’s mandate for a return to office, with 50% opposed and 49% in favor.
Nearly 60% of those surveyed view the orders affecting their agency as potentially illegal. Moreover, 71%, express worries about the overall functionality of the federal government amidst ongoing mass layoffs.
