Around 30 United States Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) employees have been placed on administrative leave after signing an open letter criticizing agency leadership and warning that budget cuts and policy changes under President Trump could undermine disaster response. The letter, released on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, drew over 190 signatories, many anonymous due to fear of retaliation, Al Jazeera reported.

Stand Up for Science called the suspensions retaliation against whistleblowers. Employees will continue to receive pay and benefits. FEMA has seen significant staff losses this year, and the letter warns that key post-Katrina reforms are being undone.