Senator Discusses DOE Layoffs and National Security Risks at Energy Committee Hearing

In a critical hearing on February 20, 2025, U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Ranking Member Heinrich emphasized the urgent need to address counterintelligence risks at national laboratories. Heinrich's opening remarks highlighted the recent layoff of 1,800 Department of Energy (DOE) employees under the Trump administration, raising alarms about the loss of top experts in vital fields such as nuclear safety and emerging technologies. He described these firings as a national security threat that could have long-lasting repercussions, urging colleagues to join him in calling for a halt to these dismissals.

Heinrich underscored the importance of maintaining robust counterintelligence measures at the DOE, which plays a pivotal role in scientific research and technological advancements. He noted that the department is not only responsible for nuclear weapons but also leads in various scientific fields, including artificial intelligence and vaccine development. The senator stressed the need for careful communication regarding research security to avoid revealing vulnerabilities to adversaries.

The hearing also addressed the complexities of balancing international collaboration in science with national security concerns. Heinrich pointed out that while foreign expertise is crucial to American innovation—citing that immigrants have significantly contributed to U.S. scientific achievements—there must be stringent safeguards in place to protect sensitive information.

Additionally, Heinrich raised concerns about recent security breaches involving staff from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which had gained unauthorized access to federal information systems. He called for immediate action to address these unprecedented risks to national security, emphasizing the necessity of thorough background checks for individuals accessing sensitive data.

As the committee moves forward, Heinrich expressed a commitment to supporting the DOE in enhancing its research security capabilities, ensuring that the United States remains a leader in scientific innovation while safeguarding its national interests.