States, D.C. Sue Trump Over $6.8B Education Freeze

Over 20 states and the District of Columbia have sued the Trump administration, alleging the unlawful withholding of approximately $6.8 billion in federal education funds intended for after-school care, teacher training, special education, school meals, and support for low-income and rural students. The funding freeze, announced just before the new fiscal year, has forced schools nationwide to confront budget shortfalls and threatens to reduce or eliminate programs serving millions of children. Attorneys general from states including Colorado, Oregon, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania argue the freeze violates federal law and Congressional appropriations. The Trump administration says it is reviewing the programs for policy alignment, but state leaders insist the funds are critical and must be released immediately. The lawsuits also seek to prevent future unilateral freezes of education funding. The dispute has heightened concerns about the stability of essential educational services for vulnerable communities.