A U.S. federal judge has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s administration from freezing federal grants, loans, and financial assistance.
The ruling by U.S. District Judge John McConnell came in response to a lawsuit filed by attorneys general from 22 Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia.
They argued that the funding freeze would jeopardize crucial services such as healthcare, education, and transportation.
Despite the White House announcing the withdrawal of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) directive that initiated the pause, the judge found that the policy remained in effect.
Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Order, Unconstitutional
He ruled that Trump does not have “limitless power” to unilaterally suspend federal funds allocated by Congress. The court order bars the administration from reinstating the directive under any other name.
The Justice Department declined to comment on the ruling. Meanwhile, New York Attorney General Letitia James, who helped lead the lawsuit, welcomed the decision, stating that it prevents the White House from causing unnecessary disruptions.
This ruling follows another temporary stay issued by a Washington, D.C., judge in a separate lawsuit brought by nonprofit organizations. Legal proceedings will continue as hearings are scheduled in the coming weeks to determine the broader implications of the funding freeze.