Sequester – Budget Limits Will Cut 450 Hanford Workers, Say Contractors

Hanford contractors announced Thursday the impending layoff of some 450 employees, largely due to budget restrictions.

The layoffs will occur between now and the fall of 2014, and most are tied to the sequester.

Because of related federal limits, Congress is funding the Department of Energy at 2013 levels.

That means Washington River Protection Services must cut about 250 jobs. CH2M Hill will cut some 100 workers (80 in December and January). Union and non-union workers will be included in the cuts. Mission Support Alliance will also let go of about 100 employees.

Washington Closure Hanford will not cut any workers, but as it approaches the end of its contract in 2015, it will gradually reduce its workforce. Its assignment at Hanford is supposed to be complete by 2015.