USDA Agency Faces Bed Bug Infestation Amid Funding Cuts
Trump-Gutted Pest Agency Battling Infestation of Its Own
Image: The Daily Beast
The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is grappling with a bed bug infestation at its Beltsville, Maryland office, ironically while managing invasive species. Employees have reported health issues due to toxic fumes, and staffing cuts under the Trump administration have compounded the problem.
- 01The APHIS office in Beltsville, Maryland, is battling a bed bug infestation while also addressing other agricultural crises.
- 02Employees were initially allowed to work from home during fumigation, but many reported health issues upon returning to the office.
- 03APHIS staffing has decreased by 17% and project funding by 29% since 2024 due to cuts made during the Trump administration.
- 04Management has blamed employees for the infestation, stating personal belongings left in the office contributed to the problem.
- 05The ongoing bed bug issue poses risks to U.S. cattle health as APHIS staff are forced to choose between working in infested conditions or taking leave.
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The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), a bureau within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is currently facing a bed bug infestation at its George Washington Carver Center office in Beltsville, Maryland. This situation is particularly ironic as APHIS is responsible for managing invasive species across the country. Employees were informed of the infestation in mid-May and were initially allowed to work from home during fumigation. However, upon their return, many reported feeling sick from toxic fumes, leading to another round of remote work approvals. Despite the ongoing infestation, some employees were told they would need to take personal vacation time if they did not wish to work in the affected office. APHIS has seen a significant decline in staffing and funding since the Trump administration, with a 17% decrease in personnel and a 29% drop in project funding. Management has attributed the resurgence of bed bugs to employee negligence regarding personal items left in the office, further complicating the agency's efforts to manage agricultural health crises.
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The bed bug infestation poses health risks to employees and disrupts APHIS's ability to manage agricultural health issues effectively.
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