The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) will eliminate 71 positions, including 38 that are currently filled, as part of a reduction in force set to take effect on November 1. The department, which employs roughly 2,100 people, confirmed the decision on Monday.
According to Sarah Morris, spokesperson for the department, the move is intended to align the organization’s resources with its "budget priorities and long-term goals." In addition to the 38 filled roles, 33 unfilled positions will also be cut.
The workforce reduction will impact various divisions within the department. The Division of Health Advancement will experience the largest number of cuts, with 14 filled positions and two unfilled roles slated for elimination. Other affected divisions include:
- Division of Local Public Health: Two filled positions and 10 unfilled - Division of Health Protection: Six filled positions and five unfilled - Division of Public Health Practice: Eight filled positions and nine unfilled - Office of Administration: Eight filled positions and five unfilled - Public Health Laboratory: Two unfilled positions
Despite the staffing reductions, Morris assured that health unit services and other department programs will not be disrupted. ADH oversees critical functions such as restaurant food safety inspections, illness surveillance, the issuance of birth certificates, and the licensing of healthcare professionals.
These changes reflect ongoing efforts to adjust state agency priorities, ensuring resources align with operational needs and future strategies. For the impacted employees, the reduction will take effect November 1.