Minnesota Department of Health Announces 170 Workforce Layoffs

The Minnesota Department of Health announced cuts that will directly impact essential public health services that Minnesotans depend on daily.

The Minnesota Department of Health has been forced to cut 170 positions following an abrupt loss of over $220 million in federal funding.

The department issued layoff and separation notices to affected 170 employees, with an additional 300 staff members receiving "at risk" notices due to seniority-based layoff protocols.

Nearly 20 recent hires had their job offers rescinded.

These cuts will directly impact essential public health services that Minnesotans depend on daily.

The layoffs will affect programs like Meals on Wheels and other services for seniors and the disabled.

State officials warn that response capabilities for infectious disease outbreaks, including ongoing measles and H5N1 situations, will be significantly compromised.

The reductions affect critical areas, including the state's...

• Public health laboratory
• Wastewater surveillance programs
• Community clinics
• Vaccination initiatives

Public health experts express particular concern about reduced laboratory capacity and fewer public health investigators, which could substantially slow the state's ability to identify and respond to disease outbreaks.

Support services for nursing homes and other vulnerable populations will also face limitations.

State officials are exploring alternative funding options while urging federal authorities to reconsider these cuts that threaten essential public health infrastructure at a time when emerging health threats continue to challenge communities nationwide.