VA exempts over 300,000 healthcare jobs from federal hiring freeze

Editor's Note

More than 300,000 healthcare positions within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) have been exempted from a federal hiring freeze ordered by President Donald Trump on January 20, ensuring continuity in care for veterans. Military.com reported the news January 23.

According to the article, acting VA Secretary Todd Hunter clarified in a January 21 memo—the same day as confirmation hearings for VA secretary nominee Doug Collins—that roles critical to public safety, including those in health care, are protected from the freeze. The exemption covers positions essential to veteran care, such as nurses, medical support assistants, social workers, and pharmacists. Collectively, such positions comprise almost one-third of the VA’s workforce.

During the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee hearings, Collins pledged to advocate for veterans’ needs but acknowledged his obligation to adhere to the executive order. The committee voted 18-1 to advance Collins’ nomination. The full article offers more detail on the hearing and testimony from senators.