Judge Pauses Colorado Child‑Care Funding Freeze During Fraud Review

Overview

• A federal court issued a 14‑day temporary restraining order restoring access to the Child Care and Development Fund as litigation proceeds.
• The Administration for Children and Families had halted CCDF, TANF, and Social Services Block Grant payments to five states, citing concerns about potential systemic fraud.
• Colorado officials say roughly 27,000 children could be affected if the freeze returns, with counties and providers bracing for disrupted care and possible furloughs.
• Parents and operators report they may lose income, reduce enrollment, or close classrooms without assistance, despite the short‑term reprieve.
• A hearing is set for Jan. 23, and state leaders argue the freeze exceeds executive authority and risks destabilizing families and local economies.