New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed a lawsuit leading a coalition of attorneys general against the Trump administration. The suit seeks to halt the dismantling of three federal agencies. The agencies, targeted by a recent Executive Order, provide crucial support to public libraries, museums, minority-owned businesses, and workers across the U.S.
Attorney General James declared, "The Trump administration is launching another attack on vulnerable communities, small businesses, and our children’s education." She emphasized her commitment to defending key services that New York communities depend on.
The lawsuit insists that the Executive Order breaches constitutional and statutory provisions by dismantling agencies without adhering to controlling laws and regulations. The complaint contends the president cannot unilaterally override federal spending laws.
The agencies affected are the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). Each plays a significant role in supporting libraries, minority-owned businesses, and labor rights, respectively.
New York State Librarian Lauren Moore explained, "This institute provides $8 million in federal support, sustaining 55 state library staff members – two-thirds of our state library workforce – and essential programs that directly serve local library communities and residents across the state."
The coalition behind the lawsuit includes attorneys general from multiple states, ensuring a broad challenge to the Executive Order's implementation. This is part of a series of legal actions by Attorney General James against the Trump administration's policies affecting health care, education, and federal employees.
New York's legal team for this matter includes Assistant Attorneys General Abigail Katowitz-Liu and Sean Bunny, among others, under the supervision of First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.