California Attorney General Rob Bonta has launched legal proceedings against the U.S. Department of Education, along with a coalition of 15 other attorneys general and the Governor of Pennsylvania. This lawsuit aims to challenge the recent rescission of funding access for education programs initially preserved for school districts. Bonta alleges this action by the Department is a violation of the Administrative Procedures Act and goes beyond the Department’s regulatory authority.
The rollback affects funding vital for supporting student recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. Over $200 million in funding for California is specifically at risk, affecting initiatives such as afterschool programs, summer learning, educational technology, and mental health services.
Bonta criticized these cuts, stating, "The Trump Administration’s blatant disregard for the education of our children is on full display with this latest round of funding cuts." He expressed his resolve by stating, "I’m taking the President to court for the 13th time to help ensure our kids get the educational opportunities they deserve." Key to this lawsuit is the argument that the Department's rescission is "arbitrary and capricious" and contrary to legal standards.
The Department of Education, under Secretary Linda McMahon, had informed states on March 28, 2025, of the funding termination. This decision affects programs meant to mitigate lost instruction time and address the needs of economically disadvantaged students, including homeless children. The coalition is seeking a court order to reverse this decision and restore funding access until March 2026.