Minneapolis VA staff cuts spark outrage among lawmakers

Lawmakers and unions are speaking out against recent job cuts at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center. Many employees, including John Helcl, were unexpectedly fired as part of budget cuts from the previous Trump administration. Helcl, who was hired to improve efficiency at the center, expressed disappointment after learning of his job loss through a text message. U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, along with Representative Angie Craig, have criticized the cuts. Klobuchar reported that over 2,000 VA workers were let go nationwide in February. Some employees are expected to be rehired after a court order paused the firings. The senators raised concerns that these cuts could make it harder for veterans to receive essential medical and other benefits. In a statement, the VA confirmed that a small number of probationary staff lost their jobs but claimed that veterans' health care and services would not be negatively affected. However, the VA has not disclosed the exact number of job cuts at the Minneapolis location, despite requests for this information from lawmakers. Union officials have noted that morale among VA workers has dropped. Many nurses are already under pressure due to a nursing shortage, and the job cuts have increased anxiety about job security. Some terminated employees had previously received high performance reviews, raising concerns about the accuracy of claims made in their termination letters. The workforce at the Minneapolis VA has shrunk even beyond the recent firings, partly due to the elimination of contract positions and early retirements. Helcl, who took a pay cut to join the VA and aimed to enhance care for veterans, is uncertain about his future and what it would take for him to return if his job is restored.