Last Updated on 2 weeks by marslinknews@gmail.com
Utah’s public health sector is facing significant layoffs after the Trump administration revoked $11.4 billion in COVID-19-related funding for state and local health departments. The Salt Lake County Health Department is cutting 17 positions, including epidemiologists and nurses, while the Utah Department of Health and Human Services is ending 37 jobs funded by COVID grants. These cuts come as Utah had expected an additional $98 million in funding through 2026. Local officials say losing these positions will strain efforts to track infectious diseases and connect residents with critical health services.
Across Utah, county health departments are scaling back programs and staff. Layoffs have occurred in Bear River, Southwest Utah, and Summit County, while other counties are still assessing impacts. Public health leaders warn that reduced funding will weaken disease prevention efforts, making responses more reactive rather than proactive. Experts stress that COVID-related funding also supported broader health programs, such as maternal health and tobacco cessation, which now face uncertainty.
MarsLink News Source: The Salt Lake Tribune (Full story)