The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has furloughed 1,400 employees as part of the ongoing federal shutdown. This unprecedented action was announced on Monday, attributed to the agency’s depletion of funds. Only about 400 employees will remain on duty without pay to ensure the safety of the nuclear stockpile and maintain essential security operations.
NNSA’s Furloughs: A Historic Decision
Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasized the severity of the situation during his visit to the Nevada National Security Site. He noted, “This has never happened before.” Wright further explained that the NNSA had not experienced furloughs in its 25-year history, calling the decision unacceptable yet unavoidable under the current funding crisis.
Impact on Workforce and National Security
Approximately 400 employees are tasked with crucial roles related to property security and human safety. The Department of Energy (DoE) has confirmed that these staff members will remain in operation until at least October 27. Meanwhile, the NNSA’s Office of Secure Transportation, responsible for moving nuclear materials within the U.S., continues to receive funding.
- 1,400 employees furloughed
- 400 employees remaining on duty
- Critical operations still funded until October 27
Wright stated that the agency collaborated with the White House Office of Management and Budget to keep some contractors employed, highlighting the importance of the 100,000 contractor workforce across national labs and nuclear facilities. “We want to keep all those people employed,” he said, emphasizing the risks to workers’ families and national security if funding runs out.
Employee Morale and Ongoing Shutdown
An anonymous NNSA employee revealed the preparation for furloughs, which included setting out-of-office messages and disposing of waste. This latest furlough adds to a challenging year for federal staff, following a previous round of firings initiated by the Department of Government Efficiency.
The shutdown, now in its 20th day, is poised to become one of the longest in U.S. history, surpassing the 21-day closure in 1995-1996. Negotiations to resolve the impasse have stalled, with deep divisions between Democrats and Republicans.
Political Reactions
Rep. Dina Titus (D-Nev.) criticized the furloughs, warning that halting the work on nuclear modernization poses a threat to national security. In contrast, Wright held Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and his party responsible for the ongoing crisis.
Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) also expressed concern over the furloughs, noting that NNSA staff were not sent home during the previous shutdown in 2019. He argued that the current situation is both unacceptable and preventable.
