Justice Department's Bold Restructuring Proposal

The U.S. Justice Department plans to merge the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as part of a government streamlining effort. Field offices for antitrust and environmental cases might also be eliminated. Feedback on the proposal is due by April 2.

The U.S. Justice Department is contemplating a significant restructuring by merging agencies responsible for enforcing drug and gun laws. This initiative is in line with President Donald Trump's directive to streamline government functions.

The proposed merger involves combining the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). In addition to this, the department is considering the closure of field offices that manage antitrust and environmental matters, as per a memo dated March 25 obtained by Reuters.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche has instructed officials to submit feedback on this restructuring by April 2. Meanwhile, a representative from the DOJ has not provided any immediate comments regarding this initiative.

(With inputs from agencies.)