Bay Area, CALIFORNIA – A military veteran and scientist working for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in the Salinas Valley was recently laid off, adding to a wave of dismissals affecting federal employees in key sectors such as science, agriculture, and research.
According to Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (D-San José), these unjustified terminations are part of a plan implemented by the administration under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
“I am calling attention to these Federal agency layoffs in California for science and research agencies. These dismissals are weakening the country’s innovation and progress,” stated Lofgren.
The Impact of Mass Layoffs on Science and Agriculture in California
The terminated scientist worked at the Sam Farr Research Center for Crop Protection and Improvement, where he received positive performance evaluations in 2024. However, on February 14, he received an email informing him that his employment was no longer considered to be in the public interest and that he would be removed from his position.
The notification arrived one day after the termination, leaving multiple USDA employees in Salinas jobless overnight.
Brise Tencer, director of the Organic Farming Research Foundation, warned that these mass layoffs endanger crucial research that helps American farmers adapt, innovate, and thrive.
“Publicly funded agricultural research is essential to improving soil health and crop resilience. These layoffs disrupt long-term projects that benefit the country’s food security,” emphasized Tencer.
How Ayuda California Can Support You
If you or a loved one have been affected by the layoffs in federal agencies in California, you don’t have to face this crisis alone. At Ayuda California, we are here to help you defend your rights and fight against unjust employment decisions. How our employment lawyer can help you:
🔹 Free consultation – We review your case with no obligation.
🔹 Expert legal defense – We protect your rights as a worker.
🔹 Employment guidance – If you are facing unfair layoffs, we guide you through the next legal steps.
Contact us today and get free advice on how we can help you regain job stability and defend your rights.
