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2w ago

20 States Sue Trump Administration Over Federal Grant Conditions Tied to Immigration Enforcement

The lawsuits argue that the administration's funding threats violate the Constitution by imposing immigration conditions on grants appropriated by Congress.

U.S. President Donald Trump makes an announcement about a trade deal with the U.K., in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 8, 2025. REUTERS/Leah Millis/File Photo
President Donald Trump answers a reporter's question during an event in the Roosevelt Room at the White House, Monday.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem testifies before a House Appropriations subcommittee earlier this month.
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Overview

  • A coalition of 20 Democratic-led states filed two lawsuits in Rhode Island federal court to challenge the Trump administration's conditions on transportation and disaster relief grants.
  • The lawsuits claim the administration is unlawfully coercing states to comply with federal immigration enforcement by threatening to withhold billions in funding for critical infrastructure and emergency preparedness.
  • State attorneys general argue that the executive branch is overstepping its authority by imposing conditions on grants appropriated by Congress, violating the Spending Clause and 10th Amendment.
  • Key federal agencies named in the lawsuits include the Department of Homeland Security, FEMA, and the Department of Transportation, with directives from Secretaries Kristi Noem and Sean Duffy cited as evidence.
  • While no funds have been withheld yet, the states contend the administration's actions pose an imminent threat to public safety and essential state programs, including disaster response and transportation projects.