FDA Mass Firings Cut Veterinary Drug Regulators, Raising Safety Concerns Over Household Pets

Mass firings at federal health agencies have hit the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine. The agency regulates drugs, food, and medical devices for animals. At least twenty regulators lost their jobs, including those reviewing veterinary drug safety, sources said. The cuts could strain an already backlogged division, leading to rushed reviews and potential safety risks for pets and human food supplies. Some terminated staff were still in their probationary period, limiting their worker protections. Critics warn the move may not save money, as many salaries were funded by industry user fees.