New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 22 states together with the District of Columbia have initiated legal proceedings against the Trump administration. The lawsuit challenges a recent decision by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to withdraw over $11 billion in state health funding, a move announced on March 24. This funding had been previously designated for public health, mental health, and addiction programs, with New York losing nearly $400 million in allocations.
Attorney General James criticized the decision as an "illegal and irresponsible" action that jeopardizes public health and impacts millions of Americans. She asserted, "Slashing this funding now will reverse our progress on the opioid crisis, throw our mental health systems into chaos, and leave hospitals struggling to care for patients."
The revoked funds were part of congressional allocations during the COVID-19 pandemic, intended to support long-term public health infrastructure and behavioral health services. The coalition argues that the administration's action violates federal law and Congress's fiscal authority.
Dr. James McDonald, the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Health, called the cuts "unprecedented and unacceptable," emphasizing the importance of the halted funding for public health work. He thanked Attorney General James for acting swiftly to challenge the cuts.
OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham highlighted the crucial nature of these services amid the ongoing overdose crisis in New York. Dr. Ann Sullivan, Commissioner of the Office of Mental Health, expressed hope for a resolution to continue essential mental health services.
Muriel Goode-Trufant, New York City's Corporation Counsel, warned of the risk to public health programs established with these federal funds, reinforcing the lawsuit's objective to secure immediate judicial intervention.
The legal challenge represents the latest move by Attorney General James against policies of the Trump administration perceived as detrimental to public services in New York. The coalition of attorneys general taking part in the lawsuit includes representatives from states such as California, Illinois, and Washington, alongside the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania.