States Sue to Block Trump Public Health Overhaul

A coalition of 19 to 20 Democratic state attorneys general and the District of Columbia has filed a federal lawsuit to block the Trump administration's restructuring of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The suit challenges the elimination of over 10,000 HHS employees, consolidation of divisions, and closure of regional offices, arguing these actions are unconstitutional, violate administrative law, and undermine critical public health functions. Plaintiffs contend the changes threaten programs for disease monitoring, mental health, maternal care, disability services, and reproductive health, including oversight of IVF safety. The lawsuit claims Congress's authority has been usurped and that states must absorb the loss of federal support. HHS asserts the restructuring enhances efficiency and complies with the law. The states seek a court order to reverse the layoffs and restore dismantled services.