Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and a coalition of states have filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration. The legal action challenges the administration's decision to terminate AmeriCorps grants and reduce the agency's workforce by 85%, which would severely impact its operations. AmeriCorps, a federal agency, engages Americans in community-based service addressing various needs, including education, public safety, and the environment. The agency facilitates opportunities for over 200,000 Americans annually.
"The President and his administration’s ongoing disregard for the rule of law is once again on full display in their attempt to dismantle AmeriCorps," Nessel stated. "By canceling grants and slashing AmeriCorps’ workforce, the administration is illegally undercutting a Congressionally established and funded independent agency, while harming communities across Michigan."
AmeriCorps supports national and state community service programs by awarding grants to organizations that recruit and supervise members. These members provide services like supporting veterans, addressing the opioid epidemic, aiding older adults, and post-disaster community rebuilding.
In February, the Trump Administration issued an executive order aimed at reducing the federal workforce, resulting in AmeriCorps notifying its employees of layoffs effective June 24, 2025. The lawsuit argues that this action violates the Administrative Procedures Act and constitutional separation of powers by incapacitating AmeriCorps' ability to fulfill its congressionally mandated functions.
In Michigan, the Michigan Community Service Commission (MCSC) received about $18 million in AmeriCorps grants in 2024, supporting numerous volunteers. The termination of these grants impacts programs such as disaster recovery efforts following the March 2025 ice storm.
The lawsuit is part of a broader series of legal actions against the Trump Administration by Attorney General Nessel's office, totaling 12 lawsuits in four months. These have reportedly recovered significant funds for Michigan, including FEMA funds and grants for school safety and infectious disease measures.
Nessel is joined in this lawsuit by attorneys general from numerous states, reflecting a widespread challenge to the administration's policies concerning national service programs.
For updates on ongoing litigation, individuals can refer to the Department’s Federal Actions Tracker.