The National Labor Relations Board has released its proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2026, requesting $285.2 million—down 4.7% from the previous year. The reduction reflects plans to cut 99 staff positions through voluntary departures while investing heavily in IT modernization, including AI tools and cybersecurity upgrades. Supporters argue the changes align with federal efficiency mandates and will help the agency streamline operations without layoffs. Critics, however, warn that fewer staff could worsen case backlogs and strain the agency’s ability to enforce labor rights effectively. The proposal still requires congressional review and approval.
See "NLRB Releases FY 2026 Budget: Proposed Staffing Cuts and Focus on Efficiency and IT Modernization", Joshua Fox & Shanice Z. Smith-Banks , Proskauer Rose, June 9, 2025