24 States file a lawsuit against the Trump administration

A coalition of 24 states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the withholding of nearly $7 billion in federal education funding. The funds, which were expected to be distributed on July 1, support critical programs such as after-school care, summer education, English language learning, teacher training, and adult education. The administration’s decision to freeze these funds has disrupted school operations, delayed staffing, and jeopardized services for hundreds of thousands of students nationwide.

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island, alleges that the administration’s actions violate the Constitution, the Impoundment Control Act, and the Administrative Procedure Act. Plaintiffs argue that the executive branch is unlawfully withholding congressionally appropriated funds without proper legal procedures. The freeze has particularly impacted low-income and immigrant communities, with programs serving migrant children, English learners, and after-school enrichment initiatives being most affected.

In response to mounting pressure, including a lawsuit from Democratic-led states and a letter from 10 Republican senators, the Trump administration announced on July 18 that it would release $1.3 billion in funding for after-school and summer programs. These funds are part of the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program, which provides essential support to low-income families. However, the remaining $5 billion in grants, intended for programs like adult literacy and English language instruction, remain under review by the Office of Management and Budget.

Advocates for education funding have criticized the administration’s actions, emphasizing the urgent need for consistent and timely funding to prevent lasting harm to educational and community services. Critics argue that the freeze conflicts with Congress-approved budgets and hampers local education decision-making.

The outcome of this legal challenge could have significant implications for the balance of power between the executive branch and Congress, particularly concerning the allocation and control of federal funds.