Attorney General Kris Mayes has joined a multistate coalition in a legal action contesting the Trump Administration’s termination of AmeriCorps grants and significant workforce reductions for the agency. These cuts, according to Mayes, practically disable the agency’s capacity to carry out its programs and operations effectively.
AmeriCorps is a federal entity dedicated to mobilizing Americans for community-based service, focusing on the country's educational, public safety, and environmental concerns. Annually, over 200,000 Americans participate in service efforts facilitated by AmeriCorps.
Attorney General Mayes remarked, “AmeriCorps represents the best of our nation – providing opportunities for millions of Americans to serve their neighbors and communities and make our country a better place to live.” She further stated, “By unilaterally gutting this Congressionally authorized agency, Donald Trump and Elon Musk have yet again violated the law and the separation of powers under the U.S. Constitution. Their illegal actions will harm Arizona communities.”
In early February, an executive order directed federal agencies to plan significant workforce reductions, resulting in AmeriCorps placing 85% of its workforce on administrative leave. Furthermore, employees were informed of their impending termination effective June 24, 2025.
The state of Arizona was notified of the termination of its AmeriCorps grant programs, impacting various volunteer and service initiatives within the state. Notable programs affected include Northern Arizona University’s Arizona Teacher’s Residency with $700,000 in funding, the Area Agency on Aging's Caring Circles with $308,000, and Vista College Preparatory’s tutoring initiatives with $495,000.
In the legal complaint filed today, Attorney General Mayes and her counterparts argue that the Trump Administration has unlawfully acted by canceling essential grants and reducing AmeriCorps' workforce. They claim these actions contravene the Administrative Procedures Act and the constitutional separation of powers, impeding state abilities to maintain AmeriCorps programs.
Mayes highlighted that “Studies show that AmeriCorps programs generate as much as $34.26 return on investment for every dollar spent,” cautioning against the severe program reductions as an inefficient move.
Joining Mayes in this lawsuit are attorneys general from Maryland, Delaware, California, Colorado, among others, totaling 25 states and the District of Columbia.