US Justice Department considers merging DEA, ATF in major wave of cuts, memo shows

Washington: The US Justice Department is considering merging the lead agencies enforcing drug and gun laws in a major shakeup as it moves to follow President Donald Trump's instructions to sharply streamline the government.

In addition to merging the Drug Enforcement Agency and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, department leaders are considering eliminating field offices that handle antitrust and environmental cases, according to a March 25 memo seen by Reuters.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche in that memo ordered department officials to provide feedback to the proposed restructuring by April 2.