Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown has joined a lawsuit with other states challenging an executive order from the Trump Administration that terminated AmeriCorps grants and reduced the agency's workforce by 85%. This decision effectively ends a program that engages over 200,000 Americans in public service roles addressing local needs such as education, public safety, and environmental protection.
"AmeriCorps provides hope and belonging in American communities nationwide. It gives inspiration and purpose to the young people who join its ranks annually," Brown stated. He criticized the President's actions as potentially illegal, referencing past federal court rulings.
The executive order issued in February directed federal agencies to reduce their workforce, resulting in 85% of AmeriCorps' workers being placed on administrative leave, with terminations expected by June 24. By April 25, Washington state was informed about the termination of its AmeriCorps grant programs.
Filing the complaint in U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, Attorney General Brown and others argue that the Administration's actions violate the Administrative Procedures Act and the U.S. Constitution's separation of powers. The coalition states that Congress established AmeriCorps and the President lacks the authority to terminate its functions or the related grants.
The lawsuit includes the attorneys general from numerous states and jurisdictions across the U.S., including Maryland, Delaware, California, and others. These officials contend that by dismantling AmeriCorps, the Trump Administration fails to uphold the Executive Branch's duty to ensure laws are executed faithfully.
Washington's Attorney General's Office provides legal representation to state agencies and enforces various protection laws. More information is available at their official website.