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3w ago

States Sue Trump Administration Over Abrupt COVID Education Fund Cuts

A coalition of 16 attorneys general and Pennsylvania's governor argue the decision violates federal law and threatens critical school programs nationwide.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro speaks to the press, as Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker listens, at the site of a plane crash in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., January 31, 2025. REUTERS/Rachel Wisniewski
New York Attorney General Letitia James speaks during a press conference on the Department of Government Efficiency at Manhattan Federal Courthouse on February 14, 2025 in New York City.
New York State Attorney General Letitia James attends the National Action Network National Convention in New York City, U.S., April 4, 2025. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton
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Overview

  • The Trump administration rescinded extended access to COVID-19 relief funds for schools on March 28, citing the pandemic's end as justification.
  • Sixteen Democratic attorneys general and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro filed a federal lawsuit on April 10, alleging the move violates the Administrative Procedure Act and federal law.
  • States like New York, Pennsylvania, and California face significant budget gaps, with millions in earmarked funds for tutoring, infrastructure, and homeless student programs now inaccessible.
  • Education Secretary Linda McMahon defended the decision, stating that schools had ample time to use the funds and that further extensions were inconsistent with departmental priorities.
  • The lawsuit seeks a court order to reinstate access to the funds, with plaintiffs warning of severe harm to vulnerable student populations and disrupted educational recovery efforts.