New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration due to its decision to block states from accessing essential education funds. James, alongside a coalition of 15 attorneys general and the Governor of Pennsylvania, is attempting to restore access to Department of Education (ED) programs that serve low-income and unhoused students. These funds also address the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on K-12 students.
The decision by the ED to end access to grants from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was announced on March 28, a move that according to James, has caused significant budgetary issues for state education departments and local school districts. "The Trump administration's latest attack on our schools will hurt our most vulnerable students and make it harder for them to thrive," stated Attorney General James. She emphasized her commitment to fight for schools so that every child receives a quality education.
Programs funded by ARPA, such as Homeless Children and Youth (HCY), Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), and Emergency Assistance to Nonpublic Schools (EANS), are critical in helping students recover from the pandemic's impact. In New York, funds are utilized for improvements to school facilities and essential services. Schools in the Capital Region, for instance, rely on ARPA funds for tutoring services essential for students who fell behind. HCY grants are also vital in providing necessities to unhoused students.
The lawsuit contends that the decision by the ED violates the Administrative Procedure Act by suddenly reversing an earlier determination, allowing fund access until March 2026 without adequate explanation. Attorney General James and the coalition seek a judicial order to prevent the ED from changing its stance, enabling states to regain access to these important funds.
Those joining Attorney General James in the legal move include attorneys general from several states like California, Illinois, New Jersey, and Oregon, along with the Governor of Pennsylvania.