New York Attorney General Letitia James, along with a coalition of 22 attorneys general, announced a court victory against a Trump administration policy that aimed to halt federal funding for various programs. The U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) on Friday, stopping the implementation of this policy.
Attorney General James stated, "The power of the purse belongs to Congress – not the President of the United States." She emphasized that the court's decision ensures that essential services in New York remain funded while their lawsuit proceeds. These services include meals for seniors, healthcare, public safety initiatives, and disaster relief efforts.
The TRO prevents federal agencies from pausing or terminating federal funding unless permitted by existing statutes or grant terms. This action safeguards programs providing health and childcare services, support to public schools, violence prevention initiatives, and disaster relief from losing their financial backing.
Following the court's decision, the Department of Justice indicated its intent to comply with the order. The TRO applies to all current and future federal funding awards or obligations across various recipients such as hospitals and non-profits.
Attorney General James also communicated with numerous recipients of federal funds to inform them that financial assistance cannot be frozen due to this blocked policy. Healthcare providers were specifically reminded that they must continue offering gender-affirming care without fear of funding withdrawal based on compliance with New York state laws prohibiting discrimination.
This legal challenge was spearheaded by Attorney General James alongside her counterparts from California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Rhode Island. Attorneys general from Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Vermont, Washington State and Wisconsin also joined in support.