States Sue Trump Administration Over Education Funding
A coalition of 20 states has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging the decision to withhold over $6 billion intended for various national education programs. This action is claimed to be a clear violation of the Water Storage Management Act of 1974, which requires that the suspension of funds be reviewed by Congress.
According to reports, the funds are being held back from programs accused of “grudically misusing” federal dollars to support a “radical left agenda.” The funds in question were allocated by Congress for Title II-A grants aimed at educator guidance, Title IV-B grants for after-school initiatives, Title IV-A grants for student support, Title III-A for English language acquisition, and adult education programs, all critical components in the fiscal year 2025.
Typically, these funds are released annually on July 1, helping districts plan their budgets for the upcoming year. In Alabama, for example, the Trump administration’s decision has effectively blocked approximately $89.9 million, which accounts for 13.4% of expected federal funding for K-12 schools.
Legislators from both political parties are now urging Trump to release the funds, notably U.S. Senator Katie Britt from Alabama, who has taken an unusual stance against the administration by joining other Senate Republicans in signing a letter that requests the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to release the withheld funds.
Britt expressed her concerns, stating, “The decision to withhold this funding contradicts President Trump’s goal of returning K-12 education to the states. This fund directly supports state and local districts, and local leaders understand best how to serve their communities.” She emphasized the need for collaboration with the administration to ensure that education funding benefits students effectively.
Other Senators, including John Boozman from Arkansas, and Susan Collins from Maine, alongside several others, signed the same letter advocating for the release of these crucial funds. Interestingly, Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville did not sign on.
The letter emphasizes the need for the administration to adhere to the Fiscal Year 2025 Continuing Resolution Act, which Trump signed earlier this year. The funds are vital to support students and local economies.
Additionally, other members of the Alabama legislative delegation, including U.S. Representative Terri Sewell, are also calling on the OMB to halt the withholding of funds. A letter drafted by House Democrats similarly urges the immediate release of federally allocated funding, which they argue is legally owed to them.
The situation has created financial uncertainty for states as they try to plan for education funding, with decisions being delayed and no clear timeline provided. Legislators criticized the administration for failing to meet its obligations in a timely manner.
As of now, the Trump administration has not offered any indication regarding when or if these funds might be released.
