The Trump administration has suddenly pulled back $12 billion in federal funding previously allocated to state and local health departments during the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision was announced by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which stated that the pandemic was over and criticized the use of these funds as mismanaged. (Reuters)

This budget cut has significantly impacted various public health programs. For instance, the Virginia Department of Health is now facing layoffs due to the national $11.4 billion reduction in federal health funding. Many grants supporting ongoing projects and staffing will be discontinued earlier than expected. (Axios)

Additionally, HHS has announced a reduction of 10,000 employees as part of a major restructuring of federal health agencies. The administration claims this move will save $1.8 billion annually, shifting focus to ending the "epidemic of chronic diseases" in America. (CNN)

State officials and lawmakers have strongly criticized the decision, warning of its negative impact on public health efforts. They argue that the funding cuts could jeopardize essential services, including infectious disease response, mental health programs, and addiction treatment services. (Reuters)

The cuts have also affected medical research funding. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been forced to eliminate funding for multiple HIV-related research grants, potentially slowing down progress in fighting the disease. (CNN)

Overall, these budget reductions signal a major policy shift in the Trump administration's approach to public health funding, raising widespread concerns about the future of healthcare services in the United States.