24 States Sue Trump Administration Over $6.8 Billion Federal School Funding Freeze

States Sue Trump

A coalition of 24 Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit on Monday against the Trump administration, accusing it of illegally freezing $6.8 billion in federal funding meant for K-12 schools.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island, targets both the U.S. Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). It claims that schools across the country were thrown into confusion after six congressionally approved education programs were suddenly halted.

The frozen funds were meant for:

Migrant education programs
Teacher recruitment and training
English language learning
Academic enrichment
After-school and summer programs
Adult literacy and job-readiness training

States were legally supposed to receive the funds by July 1, but were informed just a day earlier—on June 30—that the grants would be delayed. The reason given was a change in administration and an ongoing review of the programs.

An OMB spokesperson claimed that early findings showed federal grants were being misused to promote a “radical leftwing agenda.” They specifically objected to scholarships for immigrant students and curriculum involving LGBTQ topics.

The states argue this move violates the U.S. Constitution, which gives Congress full control over federal spending. They also claim it breaks the Impoundment Control Act, a law that prevents the executive branch from delaying or withholding funds without Congressional approval and due process.

According to the lawsuit, the funding freeze has already disrupted school operations. Some summer and after-school programs were canceled, while others face uncertainty due to sudden budget shortfalls.

This legal action adds to a growing list of lawsuits filed against the Trump administration over its attempts to withhold funding for programs it opposes on political grounds.

Highlights:

24 states and D.C. sue Trump administration for freezing $6.8 billion in K-12 school funding.
Funds were meant for migrant education, teacher training, and after-school programs.
Lawsuit claims the freeze violates the Constitution and federal budget laws.
School districts report program cancellations and major disruptions due to missing funds.

Connect with us through social media